Global Survey of Pet Owners Reveals Gaps in Understanding Parasite Risks, Highlighting the Importance of Guidance and Advice on Appropriate Parasite Control

• 43% of owners report their pets have had parasites, and 75% seek clear advice on prevention

• Veterinarians are recognized as the most trusted source of advice on pet health

• It is important to increase understanding that simple actions like parasite control significantly impact the health of dogs and cats

About this press release

This document is based on a Japanese translation of a press release originally issued by Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Germany, on March 18. Please note that some parts have been deleted, altered, or added from the perspective of Japanese legal regulations. Please be aware that the original English version takes precedence in terms of content and interpretation.

Ingelheim, Germany – March 18, 2026

To mark World Parasite Awareness Day on March 20th each year, Boehringer Ingelheim conducted a global survey of 6,500 pet owners regarding parasite prevention. The survey revealed significant gaps in owners' awareness of parasite risks and preventive actions.

Our global survey(1) of 6,500 pet owners across nine countries, including Japan, highlighted the importance of raising awareness of parasite risks, providing clearer guidance and education, and reinforcing preventive habits, given the frequent exposure to parasite risks. 27% of respondents reported knowing little or nothing about parasite risks, while a large majority, 75%, stated that clear advice on prevention is valuable. Simultaneously, 43% of respondents reported that their pets have had parasites, with one in five of these cases occurring within the past year. These results clearly indicate a significant gap between actual experience and understanding, underscoring the need for increased awareness of parasite risks and consistent preventive actions.

Parasite research indicates that in the United States alone, over 1.2 million dogs are estimated to test positive for heartworm disease(2). In Europe, heartworm disease is spreading to countries where it was previously absent, and in parts of South America, Africa, and Asia, the incidence of heartworm disease remains high in connection with local conditions. Among external parasites, ticks are commonly found worldwide, including in Japan. A recent study in Italy indicated their presence on over 47% of dogs(3), and a similar study in Southeast Asia found at least one tick on up to an estimated 67% of pet dogs(4). These blood-feeding parasites can transmit infectious diseases that can lead to serious conditions such as Lyme disease and canine babesiosis.

In Japan, common pet parasites include fleas and ticks, which are external, and heartworms, which are internal. SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome), for which infection and disease cases have been reported in Japan in recent years, is transmitted by ticks and has led to life-threatening situations in cases where it has infected pets and then humans.

Veterinarians play a crucial role in advising on appropriate preventive measures while assessing risks and supporting responsible pet care. Veterinarians are the most trusted source of information on pet health, with 70% of owners in this survey indicating they would first consult a veterinarian. Because parasite risks vary by location, season, and lifestyle, tailored advice, regular monitoring, and responsible preventive measures are essential to protect pets and people.

Parasites can cause discomfort and infections in pets, and some can also infect humans. With recent global warming and the increase in widespread trade and travel, the habitats of parasites are expanding, making control measures more important than ever. Furthermore, in comfortable indoor environments maintained at a constant temperature year-round by air conditioning, some parasites may continue to be active beyond their traditional seasonal cycles, requiring owners to take appropriate measures throughout the year based on their pet's living environment and risks...