Babies in dog-owning families may be healthier

NEW YORK, July 9: Dogs are no longer just man’s best friend: The furry family members may also protect  infants
against breathing problems and infections, a new study suggests. Researchers found that Finnish babies who lived  with
a dog or – to a lesser extent – a cat spent fewer weeks with ear infections, coughs or running noses. They were also less likely to need antibiotics than infants in pet-free homes. (agencies)