Chicago and pet-owners get along just fine

Looks like man’s best friend is also a dependable ally in the fight for a healthy living. A recent study conducted by researchers from Kuopio University Hospital in Finland shows that babies who lived with a dog have fewer ear infections and were about 30 percent less likely to have respiratory infectious symptoms, including cough, wheezing, rhinitis (running noses) and fever. A source cited by Reuters explained that dirt and allergens brought in by animals may cause a child’s immune system to mature faster, which makes it better at defending against the viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory problems.

On the emotional level, dogs are perfect companions and are responsible for a lot of laughs. They can put a smile on your face just by greeting you with a bark at the door when you come back home; they can stand by you and make you feel better when you’re feeling down; they can even help a couple be more responsible and make them want to take life by the horns; and for single dudes, they are a real blessing; you’ll see how your much-beloved pooch is like a magnet for girls.

If you’re a pet-owner looking for an apartment to rent, the Windy City has plenty of good housing options in many lovely neighborhoods that feature pet-friendly attributes. Rogers Park for one is a welcoming retreat for pet lovers; there are a lot of places where you can easily walk your dog, as well as good vets and reliable animal shelters whose primary care goes to our four-legged friends. If you want to adopt, you may stop by Red Door Animal Shelter at 2410 West Lunt Avenue. Red Door is a no-kill shelter committed to helping animals in need and provides a good home to cats, dogs and rabbits in a cageless environment, allowing them to stay happy and healthy. Lincoln Park is also very pet-friendly, as well as Lake View and Bucktown/Wicker Park as they have great dog parks (Churchill, Wicker Park) and an eclectic mix of housing options.