Why Dogs are BONE-ifide Companions (Part 1): Health

1.  Improve your level of Fitness
   1.  A study published in 2010 by Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that dog walkers tend to walk around an hour longer than non-dog walkers.
2.  Reduce the likelihood that your Infant will contract pet allergies and other health issues
   1.  Fewer Pet Allergies: Studies have shown infants who grow up around dogs are 15% less likely to have pet allergies, as well as asthma, in the future.
   2.  Lower Chances of Eczema: Researchers have concluded infants’ chance of contracting eczema (a skin allergy consisting of itching and red patches) decreases through pet exposure at a young age.
   3. Stronger Immune System: Greater immune system activation has come as a result of infants’ interaction with dogs.
   4.  Reduce Number of Sick Days: Children have been found to have fewer sick days off from school if there is a dog in their family.
   5.  Rid of Extra ADHD Energy: Both WebMD and Petwiki agree that kids with ADHD can benefit from owning a dog, because they can release their excess energy by playing with their pet.
   6.  Boost Self-Esteem: Kids who have dogs to come home to and play with are shown to have