Recent news about the intersection of animal, human, and environmental health, culled by the Penn One Health communications group.

Barbecue season is in full swing. And though some may prefer meatless options, summertime staples like hot dogs and hamburgers still occupy a good bit of paper plate real estate. While these classics have been the centerpiece of many American BBQs for decades, the harsh reality is that they remain some of the unhealthiest choices. Here Penn experts in nutrition dissect some of this typical barbecue fare.

Menopause in dolphins, invasive rats threatening coral reefs, and more in this week’s round-up.

Lyme disease, West Nile virus, Zika, chikungunya, and dengue are among the vector-borne infections making headlines. Penn researchers shed light on what’s behind the spread and how to stay safe.

Researchers have figured out how to turn off certain genes in the liver that can cause dangerous health problems.

Penn researchers explain what happens when ice cream and other frozen treats cause “brain freeze” and tooth sensitivity.

Harvard Medical Students learn to treat animals like this red panda thanks to collaboration between Harvard Medical School and Zoo New England.

Why are dogs afraid of fireworks and thunderstorms? As Carlo Siracusa of Penn Vet explains, loud, sudden, unpredictable noises cause these animals stress. Don’t punish the behavior derived from the fear, he says. Rather offer comfort by doing an activity they love or providing them a “safe haven” that helps them wait it out.

People across South Asia already face extreme poverty, with climate change projected to worsen their impoverishment.