News: Kids in families with dogs are healthier

Want to keep your baby healthy?

According to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics, all you need to do is get a furry family member.

They may bark, drool and demand constant attention, but they also ‘have a protective effect on respiratory tract infections during the first year of life, leading to better resistance to infectious respiratory illnesses during childhood,’ the study’s authors wrote.

And that’s not all.

The babies who had contact with dogs also had less frequent ear inflammation or infection and needed fewer courses of antibiotics than babies who didn’t have contact with dogs.

Not only do our adorable canine friends keep babies healthy, they also keep us healthy.

Past studies have shown that dog owners are 34 percent likelier to be more active than those who don’t have a dog, that teens with dogs get about 32 minutes of physical activity a day and that having a pet around has a positive effect on the physical health of those age 65 and older. Not to mention the mental health benefits of having a constant companion who provides unconditional love.

I didn’t have a dog as a baby, but I did have one growing up and he definitely motivated me to get outside, go for walks and embrace fun things like car rides, food and cuddling. 

What do you think? Does your dog keep you healthy? Would you get a dog to help prevent respiratory infections in your children?

-Katharine Watts, Associate Web Editor

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