When it comes to having a pet in the house - - a new study shows that it may actually be beneficial - - even if there are concerns about kids, asthma and allergies.
The new study from Columbia University finds that children who are exposed to cats in early childhood may be less likely to suffer from allergies and asthma later in life. Experts say earlier studies show the same is true for dogs and other household pets.
Mark Livezey, M.D., Allergist says, "One possibility suggested by this study is that there's a desensitization process that goes on early in life. And with high exposures to an allergen such as a pet dander that the allergic sort of response may actually tone down somewhat and result in lesser incidence in allergic disease or asthma."
There is no guarantee though, that a pet will prevent a child from developing allergies and asthma. Only time will tell if it works.
