Got Kefir?

Contributed by a CP Volunteer

Dogs love the taste of Kefir and are happy to lick the bowl - or bottle!

One of the easiest and best things anyone can add to their dog’s food which will give enormous benefit to their digestive tract, nervous system, and overall immune health is a wonderful milk product called Kefir (pronounced “Kee-fur” in the US and “ki-Fear” in Europe).  Most dogs really love the taste of Kefir and consider it a wonderful treat!

Kefir is easy to make at home!

Kefir is a thought of by many as a “liquid yogurt” but it is fermented milk, with no cooking involved, and it is loaded with beneficial bacteria.  Kefir originated in the Caucasus Mountains more than 2,000 years ago, meaning “feel good" in Turkish.  It helps to balance the intestinal flora, helping the body to maintain optimal health and strengthen immunity, enhancing longevity. 

Many use Kefir as part of our overall, day-to-day preventative health routine for our dogs (and ourselves!), but adding Kefir can be especially important after a course of antibiotics.  Antibiotics kill the good intestinal flora along with whatever bad bacteria was the target, and this has a negative impact on our overall health – human or canine.  Simply adding Kefir to the diet will quickly improve the situation!

In addition to balancing our digestive flora, Kefir also delivers the natural healing powers of minerals and essential amino acids, including Tryptophan, well-known for its beneficial effects on the nervous system, plus calcium and magnesium, critical nutrition for a healthy nervous system.  It is also rich in vitamin B12, B1, and vitamin K, and is an excellent source of biotin, aiding regulation of kidney and liver function, as well as promoting healthy looking skin, boosting energy and promoting longevity.

All you need are healthy Kefir grains and milk

Humans can enjoy Kefir in many flavors, but dogs must use only plain, which you can buy in the grocery or health food store, or you can make it yourself at home!

Kefir from Lifeway: 
http://lifewaykefir.com/

Making Kefir at Home:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlZrlm9tsrw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8inJzX-6yE

Understanding Probiotics:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEYS9_POt1A