It’s a new study, but it’s not a new conclusion. There are many studies that have found that exposing children to pet dander and other bacteria that they bring into the house from outdoors, somehow helps a baby’s immune system fight off allergens and viruses better than the immune system of children without pets in the home. This study says that “kids that grew up with dogs were 44% less apt to develop ear infections and 29% less likely to need antibiotics. Kids who lived with a dog were 31% healthier the first year than kids who didn’t live with a dog.” Living with a cat didn’t fare quite as well but kids living with a cat were “6% more likely to be healthy” than those in a house without a cat. Works for me. Another reason that Kids Need Pets.