Animals Today August 20, 2016: Mosquito alert and the threat of Zika: World Mosquito Day. Recalling Lori’s childhood trip to Africa. America’s newest juvenile hunting celebrity. Mental health risks to those who work in the animal welfare field. Toxoplasmosis in cats and people.

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August 20^th is World Mosquito Day, which recognizes the discovery of the connection between mosquitos and Malaria. Lori reviews some of this fascinating history, including the very controversial story about DDT. Will there be any role for DDT in the US if disease from the Zika virus becomes more widespread?

Lori then continues by recollecting her family’s vacation to South Africa decades ago, and the trauma she experienced after witnessing a staged kill. Peter then offers a few critical comments on the 12-year-old game hunter, Aryanna Gourdin.

Next up is Dr. Sandra Grossman, certified pet loss and bereavement counselor. Workers and volunteers in animal welfare, including Veterinarians, face mental health challenges more often than almost any other field. Sandra reviews and interprets recent research findings and then gives tips to recognize early signs of compassion fatigue and practical ways to begin managing this common condition.

The show concludes with Dr. Robert Reed, Medical Director of VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital, who speaks with Lori about toxoplasmosis in cats and risks to people.