Kefir Anyone?

[Lisa Loves Shiny]

I have been trying natural supplements (vet recommended) to ease the anxiety in my older and most likely inbred dog. He was rescued from a puppy mill and has always suffered anxiety. For example, he will out of the blue become terrified of things like heating grates. He is well exercised daily, and retraining him used to work but now shows very limited results. So we added milk bovine capsules which may have helped just a little. Next we are on to Kefir which I make using milk culture grains. I don't see a change in the little guy, but my bigger dog has had a complete elevation in mood. She is as playful as a pup. I have never seen her play with the other dog (too much work, no dignity she sniffs) until yesterday in which she initiated a romp in the yard.

Hubby and I are now taking it, he is mixing his with berries to make a smoothie in the morning. Anyone else using Kefir for the probiotic benefits?

 

[Daisys and Diamonds]

Never heard of it but im impressed with the bigger dog romping like a pup

 

[pearlsngems]

I like kefir-- it's much like buttermilk.

 

[lissyflo]

Yes, I love kefir - the slightly tart note makes it quite addictive. I love Kimchi too and that has similar probiotic benefits as it’s fermented. Is your dog okay with the lactose in kefir? I let ours have very small amounts only, but I wouldn’t give him kimchi because of the garlic.

 

[Tremsi]

I read that kefir is good for low stomach acid so wanted to try it for myself. Haven’t used it on my pup but have used CBD oil for her anxiety and it seems to help.

 

[Arcadian]

Both my dogs get it every morning without any issue. but then again they also get oatmeal too...lol. I don't like milk (though I do have it in my coffee) but I do have some issues with it yogurts anyway.

 

[tyty333]

I bought some at the store and well, I like it but cant drink much at a time due to the
tartness...I need to try it again. I was hoping my DS would drink it because it seems like
he is always having stomach issues. Glad at least one pup is seeing a difference.

 

[Tartansparkles]

I make my own kefir (I ferment shop bought milk with kefir grains) and it helps with eczema like skins conditions. When my skins gets really bad I apply the kefir directly (ok, I smell like cheese but at least my skin doesn't itch!).

 

[jaysonsmom]

I’ll have to try it! I have a lot of skin problems.

 

[Lisa Loves Shiny]

Yes, I love kefir - the slightly tart note makes it quite addictive. I love Kimchi too and that has similar probiotic benefits as it’s fermented. Is your dog okay with the lactose in kefir? I let ours have very small amounts only, but I wouldn’t give him kimchi because of the garlic.

I am going to look up Kimchi. Thank you for that information.

I started with Lifeway brand which says it is 99% lactose free due to their 14-18 hour ferment time. I am making sure the Kefir I make ferments at least 18 hours. So far I haven't noticed any loose stools or GI upset. To play it safe I am limiting them to no more than 2 tablespoons a day.