Founded in 2005, the European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation consisting of experts in the field of parasitology and public health from across Europe. It was formed to address the need for a consistent European approach to parasite control in pets, a subject which has become ever more important due to the increase in the movement and transportation of pets within Europe.ESCCAP is a free and independent parasite control resource for veterinary professionals. Its primary function is to develop free best-practice guidelines for the treatment and control of parasites in pet animals. Its aim is to protect the health of pets, enhance the safety of the public and preserve the human–animal bond.