Climate change and global warming, coupled with the growing volume of international travel for both people and pets, create ideal conditions for the introduction and spread of small animal parasites, many of which could pose zoonotic risks to pet-owning households. The increasing number of imported pets further exacerbates these challenges. In the final session of BSAVA Policy’s ‘One Health: One Team’ stream at BSAVA Congress, Ian Wright, Veterinary Surgeon and Chair of the European Scientific Council for Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP) outlined the diverse pathways and mechanisms by which parasitic incursions occur. He also addressed the potential ramifications for both animal and public health, as well as emerging innovations in parasite detection and surveillance.