What does unfolding Zika virus story have in common with hit movie sequels? To find out, tune into this week's podcast.

Here’s the news item in Nature World News that triggered this podcast. As we all know, I love my dogs and cats. But there’s something about cows and sheep that makes those animals really special too. I know for a fact that both are exceptional audiences for even the worst human vocal concerts. Nor can I imagine making it through my 3rd trimester of pregnancy and my last semester of vet school simultaneously without the comfort of some very special dairy cows.

Given how often the word "fairness" comes up and the simplicity of its definition it should be the goal of any human- or nonhuman relationship. But it's not that simple.

Anyone who follows the purebred animal scene knows that their increased number of mutations doesn't bode well for the physical and mental health of certain breeds. However, this process isn't a human invention.

For those seeking proof of the statement, "The more we know, the more we need to know," the subject of canine domestication provides its share.

This week's podcast uses the hormone oxytocin to demonstrate the effect on public perception and expectations when research is given an strong positive emotional spin.

A recurrent theme in history is "Who will watch the watchers?" Nor does science escape such scrutiny as the these studies remind us.

One certainty about behavior and all science is its uncertainty, and howler monkeys certainly make a good case for this.

As with fundamentalism in other areas, reports of fundamentalism related to animals tends to overshadow the work of the good people working to address the difficult human issues that more often than not underlie those animal issues. They are the true heroes and I for one am grateful for their presence.

Most people are familiar with the lessons we can learn from little mustard seeds or acorns. But as Frica taught me, the oft-maligned burr can be a pretty good human and canine teacher too.