Beneficial yeast ?  Why you might ask would I want my dog to have beneficial yeast, well the yeast which is chronically found in the infected ears and paws of our pets is usually of the Staphylococcus variety and  Kefir possesses antimicrobial activity against bacteria and some fungi (1).  Using Kefir is like treating from the inside – out, creating an in-hospitable environment for the bad yeasts and bacterias, 1 ml of Kefir contains up to 109 microbes(2).

Research has shown a clear link between Kefir consumption and overall immune system function(3) along with inhibiting the growth of bacteria and non-beneficial yeast.  I have been feeding Kefir to my dogs for almost two months now and most importantly they LOVE it !  I haven’t had a meal refused since I started adding kefir.

How do I make Kefir ?

It is really easy actually, you start with the grains pictured above.

1. Place the grains in a wide mouth, glass jar

2. Add Milk, cover with papertowel and rubber band

3. 24 hours later strain the grains and BAM you have Kefir

I got my first Kefir grains from our friends, Peter and Shannon, over at Basalt Canyon Kennels in Eastern Washington, I believe you can find Kefir grains on ebay or check with your local health food store.  Thank you again to Peter and Shannon for the grains !

Sources and to Learn More About Kefir:

1. Toronto Advisors Kefir Research Doc

2. Kefir.org

3. A Complex Probiotic