Health report: Pets could help keep children healthier
Posted: 07/09/2012
CLEVELAND - Pets could help keep kids healthier, according to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics.
The study states it's because the animal interaction can help a baby's immune system to mature..
Researchers found babies who grew up with cats or dogs had fewer ear infections and respiratory problems.
They also found that kids with pets needed less medication, even when they were sick.
Children were 44 percent less likely to develop an ear infection, and almost 30 percent less likely to have used antibiotics during their first year, when they had a pet dog.
Researchers speculate the dirt the animals track in from outside may stimulate the child's immune system.
Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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