This episode of Animals Today dives deep into the world of mosquitoes and their impact on our world. Did you know August 20th was World Mosquito Day? We discuss the history of these little pests, particularly their notorious connection to diseases like malaria. Discover how Sir Ronald Ross changed the game in 1897 by unveiling the link between mosquitoes and Malaria – a discovery that later earned him the Nobel Prize.

However, our journey doesn’t end there. We venture into the realm of DDT, a controversial insecticide that took center stage during WW2. Its extensive use and subsequent ban have sparked debates lasting decades. Discover the role Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” played in challenging the safety of DDT, and how it paved the way for the birth of the modern environmental movement. Dr. Jane Orient, a noted physician, throws light on the DDT ban, criticizing its basis and highlighting its effectiveness in public health.

We then explore recent research on the secrets of peaceful cat and dog coexistence and the potential risks of raw meat diets for our furry friends.

After, Lori sits down with Dr. Robert Reed, the esteemed Medical Director at VCA Veterinary Hospital in sunny Rancho Mirage, California. They dive into the world of bee and wasp stings, revealing the hidden dangers our four-legged friends face. Imagine a simple sting leading to swelling, pain, and fiery redness. But in severe instances, the aftermath can escalate to chilling episodes of vomiting, shakes, facial swelling, and, in worst-case scenarios, anaphylaxis. Think your dog’s been stung? Don’t play the guessing game. Lori and Dr. Reed emphasize the importance of zooming to your vet, because with stings, predictability is not a luxury.

Wrap up with a test of your animal acumen: do you know what is studied in helminthology? How about the age-old question – what on earth happened to Speedy Gonzales? Tune in to join the fun, expand your knowledge, and satisfy that insatiable curiosity!

Rachel Carson