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Asthma, allergies and owning a pet

Dr James Ramsden
Friday, February 25, 2011
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Asthma affects one in six children and one in nine adults. Sadly, most believe that they can’t own a dog or a cat, as it might increase their risk of an asthma attack. Now, there’s good news that shows that pets can help.

Recent research shows that owning a dog in childhood can actually reduce the likelihood of becoming an allergy and asthma sufferer – dog ownership in early childhood was associated with a lower rate of sensitivity to the things that cause allergies.

This means that owning a pet doesn’t necessarily cause allergic reactions – and children with allergies don’t have to miss out on growing up with the joy and companionship they get from owning an animal.

Of course, if someone has asthma or believes they have an allergic reaction to pets, they need to consult their doctor before introducing a pet into a household. And there are some breeds of dogs that are more suitable than others for sufferers of allergies. Ask your vet for more information.

Your say: Do your children have asthma? Does owning a pet affect it in your child? Share with us below...

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