Dogs May Protect Against Childhood Asthma

No similar protection was found in kids growing up with cats.

Growing up with a dog may help protect against childhood asthma.

Investigators found babies exposed to allergens from man’s best friend had a 48% lower risk of asthma by age 5 and better lung function. Researchers say the protective effect is linked to increased exposure to diverse microbial communities in the home environment…which can help strengthen the immune system and promote tolerance to allergens. No similar protection was found in kids growing up with cats. The findings were presented at a meeting of the “European Respiratory Society” in Amsterdam and have yet to be published.