I believe that exposure to everything possible, reduces the risk of sensitivity.  My boys have had pets around them since the day they came home from hospital.  My hideous, shedding, ginger tom cat, sleeps on the foot of their bed (except for cold nights when I have found the rotten thing under their blankets, curled up against their back). We have always had big, goofy dogs running around the back yard, and chooks and rabbits too.  Have tried budgies, but cant keep them alive .

The boys have been crawling around in the dirt, mud and general grime, since they could first move.  Both of them have grown up to be disgustingly healthy.  I have them to the doctor once a year for a general check up, whether they need it or not.

I don't think I agree with this... My husband brother was born into the family where they had a few animals and he turned out to be allergic to the cats and for years and years he could not go around cats and then when he was 12 he wasn't allgeric to one type of cat and that cat can't have dander because his allgeries will act up again!

I've heard this also some where along the lines. My child has always been around animals and so far, no allergies.