Finding Free Dog Food Samples And Understanding 2019 Heartworm Incidence In The Us

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The American Heartworm Society (AHS) announced the results of its 2019 Heartworm Incidence Survey, which collected data from nearly 6,000 U.S. veterinary practices and shelters. The survey revealed that no state in the U.S. was heartworm-free in 2019. Mississippi led the country with almost 10 percent of tested dogs being heartworm-positive, followed by Louisiana with just under 8 percent positivity. The top five states for heartworm incidence were Mississippi, Louisiana, South Carolina, Arkansas, and Alabama. Rounding out the top ten were Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and Oklahoma. The survey noted that while the Southeast remains a hotbed for heartworm infection, states in the Northeast, Midwest, and West also reported many cases.

For pet owners seeking free dog food samples, several options exist, though they are not as common as in previous years. Zignature offers free 4-ounce samples at authorized retailers, with direct mail options available for those without nearby retailers. Essence provides free samples when contacted through Facebook. The Pet Way sends free samples after pet owners complete a questionnaire about their dog's age, health, and dietary restrictions. Nupro offers complimentary supplement samples via their toll-free number, while Iams India provides free samples through their online form.

Some companies offer low-cost sample options instead of free ones. Honest Kitchen sells 1-pound sample packs starting at $6.99, with a potential 30% discount using code K930. Feed Pet Purveyor provides various dog food label samples for $1 each plus tax, with free shipping on orders of five or more samples. Great Lakes Pet Food offers sample packs of pork and chicken puppy food starting at $5.50 each. Red Barn sells 4-ounce samples of their grain-free ocean recipe for $1. The Simple Food Project has single protein or sample pack options starting at $3.28.

Pet owners should note that free and low-cost samples are intended for trying new foods rather than long-term feeding. Regularly switching foods can cause stomach upset and make it difficult to identify which food might be causing digestive issues. Additionally, abusing sample programs may lead manufacturers to discontinue them for other pet owners.

Reward programs can provide long-term savings on dog food. Chewy's autoship program offers 35% off the first order and 5% on subsequent autoship orders. Petsmart provides discounts and deals for new puppies, including coupon packs for dog food. Petco's Pals Rewards program allows members to earn points with each purchase, receive exclusive discounts, personalized deals, and special birthday offers.

Some notable brands do not offer free samples, including Blue Buffalo, Pedigree, Orijen, and Science Diet. However, Blue Buffalo does offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Veterinary practices may sometimes offer free dog food samples, so pet owners are encouraged to ask during visits. Retailers like Petco and Tractor Supply occasionally run promotions for small, free bags of dog food with purchase. Sales representatives sometimes visit big-box pet stores during weekends to offer free samples of brands like Instinct.

Conclusion

The 2019 AHS Heartworm Incidence Survey highlights the ongoing risk of heartworm disease across all U.S. states, with the highest incidence rates in the Southeast. For pet owners seeking free dog food samples, several manufacturers and retailers offer promotional samples, though these programs should be used responsibly. Low-cost sample options provide an alternative for those unable to find free samples, while reward programs can deliver long-term savings on regular purchases. Pet owners should be mindful that sample programs are intended for trial purposes and not as a long-term feeding solution.

Sources

1. AHS Announces Findings of 2019 Heartworm Incidence Survey
2. Where to Get Free Dog Food Samples
3. Companies That Provide Free Samples for Your Dog