Zara & Omie: Paws-itively Helpful!

Paws-itively Helpful: Can Your Dog Actually Improve Your Gut Health?

In today’s comic, Zara finds out the slobbery way that Sir Licks-a-lot’s kisses aren’t just full of love — they’re full of microbes too. 😅

And weirdly enough… that might be a good thing.

Wait, what do dog licks have to do with gut health?

Turns out, exposure to pet microbes — especially in early life — can help train your immune system and diversify your gut microbiome.

Yep, science says that kids raised with dogs tend to have fewer allergies, lower rates of asthma, and more resilient guts. Why? Because they’re constantly being introduced to tiny amounts of bacteria from their furry best friends — through skin, paws, fur… and yes, the occasional face lick.

So… is my dog a probiotic?

Not exactly. But pets do bring microbial diversity into your home — which your gut absolutely loves.

Researchers believe this mild, regular exposure to “outside” microbes helps your body build tolerance, lower inflammation, and develop a healthier gut ecosystem overall.

So while Sir Licks-a-lot might be a bit extra with his affection, his microbial magic? It’s real.

The gut stuff your pup already knows.

You don’t need to kiss your dog back.
But maybe — just maybe — that sloppy snuggle is one more way your body is learning to feel safe, connected, and supported.

Gut health… the slobbery way.

Read the full comic below 👇