Winter has arrived, and while we’re cozy under blankets and sipping warm drinks, our dogs feel the chill too. Winter isn’t just about keeping them warm, it’s about giving them the right nutrition to stay healthy and energetic all season long.
If you’re a pet parent wondering how to support your dog during colder months, here’s what you need to know.
Why Winter Nutrition Matters
Cold weather means your dog uses more energy to stay warm. Without proper nutrition, they can experience fatigue, a dull coat, or lowered immunity. A balanced diet tailored for winter helps keep them strong, active, and happy.
Essential Food Categories for Winter Wellness
- Protein-Packed Meals
Protein is the foundation of your dog’s health. It supports muscle strength and energy—especially important when temperatures drop. Look for high-quality kibble or wet food featuring real meat like chicken, fish, or lamb.
Tip: Check labels for “high-protein” formulas to meet seasonal energy needs.
- Healthy Fats for Warmth
Fats provide concentrated energy and help maintain a shiny coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are key for skin health and warmth. Fish oil or flaxseed are great additions, and many premium foods include these naturally.
Pro Tip: Balance is important, too much fat can lead to weight gain.
- Fibre for Digestive Health
Seasonal changes can affect digestion. Fibre from carrots, pumpkin, or sweet potatoes keeps your dog’s gut healthy and helps them feel full. Many complete diets include fibre-rich ingredients for convenience. - Vitamins & Minerals for Immunity
Winter can challenge your dog’s immune system. Nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc help fight seasonal stress. Choose foods fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to keep their defences strong. - Hydration-Friendly Options
Dogs often drink less water in winter. Wet food or pet-safe broths can help maintain hydration. Serving warm broth over kibble is a comforting way to boost fluid intake.
Extra Tips for Winter Care
- Adjust Portions: If your dog is less active, reduce food slightly to avoid weight gain.
- Serve Warm Meals: A little warmth makes mealtime more inviting.
- Keep Them Cozy: Blankets, coats, and indoor play keep your dog comfortable and happy.
The Bottom Line
Winter doesn’t have to slow your dog down. By focusing on protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and hydration, you’ll help them thrive through the season. Explore Feeds’n Needs’ selection of premium pet foods and winter care essentials—because a healthy dog is a happy dog.
Types of seeds: Heirloom, Hybrid, Open Pollenated
When planning your garden, the type of seeds you choose influences everything – from flavour and appearance to how well your plants grow and whether you can save seeds for next year. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the main seed types and how they connect to seed saving.
Heirloom Seeds
Heirloom seeds come from plant varieties that have been passed down through generations, often 50 years or more. Their genetics remain stable because they come from open‑pollinated plants that naturally reproduce true to type.
Why gardeners love them:
- Amazing flavours and unique colours
- Rich history and biodiversity
- You can save seeds, and they’ll grow true year after year
Best for:
Gardeners who love tradition, character, and seed-saving.
Hybrid Seeds
Hybrid seeds are created by intentionally crossing two parent plants to produce offspring with specific traits like disease resistance or higher yields.
Benefits:
- Strong, uniform plants
- Improved productivity
- Better resistance to pests and disease
Important to know:
Hybrid seeds won’t grow true if you save their seeds. The next generation will be unpredictable, often reverting to characteristics of the parent plants.
Best for:
Gardeners who want reliability and consistent results.
Open‑Pollinated Seeds
Open‑pollinated seeds come from plants pollinated naturally by wind, insects, or animals. Their genetics are stable, meaning they will produce plants similar to the parent.
Why they’re great:
- Seeds can be saved and replanted
- Wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavours
- Great for gardeners who want dependable results
All heirloom seeds are open-pollinated, but not all open-pollinated seeds are heirloom.
Saving Seeds: What You Need to Know
Seed saving is a rewarding way to maintain your favourite varieties and reduce gardening costs. But success depends on starting with the right types of seeds.
Best seeds for saving:
- Heirloom
- Open‑pollinated
These seeds will reproduce true to type, giving you plants that match the parent.
Seeds not recommended for saving:
- Hybrid: Hybrids won’t produce consistent offspring, so saved seeds usually lead to surprises not always good ones!
Tips for saving seeds:
- Choose healthy, vigorous plants as parents.
- Allow fruits or flowers to fully mature before collecting seeds.
- Dry seeds thoroughly before storing.
- Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry place.
Understanding seed types helps you make confident choices in your garden. Whether you love the charm of heirlooms, the strength of hybrids, or the dependability of open‑pollinated seeds, there’s a place for each in a thriving garden. And if you enjoy the idea of growing your own “garden legacy,” seed saving is the perfect next step.
References:
3 Main Types of Vegetable Seeds Explained – Food Gardening Network
Veseys Facebook Page
Cleaning Your Horse Track for Riding Season
As winter fades and riding season approaches, giving your horse track a thorough clean‑up is one of the best ways to set the stage for safer, smoother training sessions. A well‑maintained track supports better footing, prevents injuries, and keeps your horse performing at their best. Here’s how to get your track ride‑ready this spring.
- Clear Away Debris
Start by walking the track and removing any fallen branches, rocks, leaves, or broken fencing that may have accumulated over the winter. Even small debris can throw off footing or create hazards for horses moving at speed.
- Check Drainage
Spring melt can leave tracks damp or uneven. Take note of puddles or soft spots—these often indicate drainage issues. Clearing ditches, leveling low areas, or adding drainage material helps ensure a safer, more consistent surface.
- Repair Fencing & Perimeter Areas
Inspect the track edges and fencing for winter damage. Replace loose boards, tighten wire, and ensure gates latch properly. A secure, well‑marked boundary helps keep horses focused and riders safe.
- Groom the Footing
Footing makes all the difference. Use a harrow or drag to break up compacted areas, redistribute material, and smooth the surface. This reduces strain on your horse’s joints and provides even traction throughout the track.
If your footing feels thin or uneven, consider adding fresh material—sand, screenings, or specialized footing—depending on what your track is built from.
- Address Dust Early
As temperatures rise, dust becomes a common challenge. Watering the track or using dust‑control products helps maintain visibility and comfort for both horse and rider.
- Inspect Jumps & Training Equipment
If your track includes jumps or training markers, give them a spring tune‑up. Check for loose screws, broken poles, rotted wood, and faded markers. Safe, clearly visible equipment supports better training sessions.
- Create a Maintenance Routine
Once your track is clean and ready for spring, keep it that way with a simple weekly routine—dragging, debris checks, and moisture management go a long way toward preserving footing and preventing wear.
Ready, Set, Ride!
With a bit of spring prep, your horse track can be safe, comfortable, and ready for a great riding season ahead. A clean, well‑maintained surface doesn’t just look good—it protects your horse’s health and helps every ride feel better.
The Benefits Of A Raw Food Diet For Dogs & Cats
If your pet could write their own grocery list, there’s a good chance “more raw food, please!” would be at the top. Raw diets have been getting tons of love lately and for good reason! From better nutrition to allergy‑friendly options, there are plenty of benefits packed into every bowl. And when it comes to choosing a trustworthy raw brand, Big Country Raw is a standout star.
- Made in Canada, With Love (and Great Ingredients)
Big Country Raw is a Canadian, family‑owned company based in Ontario, proudly using Canadian‑sourced ingredients in all their recipes, except their imported kangaroo protein (which would be tricky to find in the wilds of Ontario). Their commitment to local sourcing means fresher ingredients and higher quality in every bite. Plus, with a certified pet nutritionist on staff, they ensure every recipe is expertly balanced to support your pet’s health from bowl to tail. - Safety You Can Trust
Big Country Raw is HACCP certified, an internationally recognized food safety standard that ensures strict control over biological, chemical, and physical hazards. It’s the same level of oversight used in human food production, giving pet parents peace of mind. - Allergy‑Friendly Options & So Much Variety
Got an itchy dog? A picky eater? A pet with mysterious tummy troubles? With nine different proteins and a wide range of natural supplements, Big Country Raw makes it easy to tailor meals to your pet’s needs. Dogs with allergies or health concerns often thrive on raw because it’s minimally processed and rich in clean, species‑appropriate ingredients. - Nutrients That Actually Get Absorbed
The magic of raw food is how naturally digestible it is. Without heavy processing, pets can absorb nutrients more effectively leading to shinier coats, better digestion, and a whole lot more tail wagging. - Cats Need Taurine, Raw Has Plenty
Fun fact: cats can’t produce their own taurine, an essential nutrient for heart health, vision, and overall wellbeing. Big Country Raw’s cat formulas naturally contain high taurine levels, giving your feline friend exactly what they need. - Backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Trying raw for the first time? No stress! Big Country Raw backs all food and supplements with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, making raw feeding easier and more approachable for everyone.
Raw feeding doesn’t have to be complicated—and with high-quality brands like Big Country Raw, it’s easier than ever. Better ingredients, better nutrition, and better results… your pet just might thank you with extra cuddles.
If you have any questions about a raw food diet for your pet, the knowledgeable staff at Feeds’n Needs are happy to help!
More info on raw food diets: Raw Master Class
Nesting Boxes: Prep Your Backyard for Spring Birds!
As winter fades and the first signs of spring begin to appear, birds across your neighbourhood are searching for safe, cozy places to raise their young. Adding nesting boxes to your backyard is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to support local bird populations while enjoying a little more feathered charm right outside your window. Here’s how to get your backyard spring‑ready for nesting season!
Why Nesting Boxes Matter
Natural tree cavities are becoming harder for birds to find, especially in urban and suburban areas. Nesting boxes provide:
- Safe shelter from predators
- Protection from spring weather
- A dedicated space for raising chicks
- A way to attract more bird species to your backyard
From chickadees to bluebirds, many species rely on human‑made nest boxes as part of their spring routine.
Choose the Right Nesting Box
Not all birds use the same type of nest box. Before buying or installing one, consider:
Hole Size
Different birds need different entrance sizes:
- Chickadees: ~1 1/8″
- Bluebirds: ~1 1/2″
- Tree swallows: ~1 1/2″
Matching the size helps attract the right species and keep unwanted visitors out.
Material
Look for untreated wood (pine, cedar, spruce). Avoid plastic or thin materials, which can trap heat and moisture.
Ventilation & Drainage
Quality nesting boxes include vents at the top and drainage at the bottom to keep chicks dry and comfortable.
Where to Place Your Nesting Box
Placement matters! For best success:
- Mount boxes 5–10 feet off the ground
- Face them east or southeast to avoid harsh afternoon sun
- Keep away from heavy foot traffic and high‑activity areas
- Space boxes well apart to reduce competition between species
- Ensure there’s open flight access to avoid thick branches blocking the entrance
If you’re installing multiple boxes for species like bluebirds or tree swallows, consider placing them in pairs or clusters to reduce territorial disputes.
Clean & Prep Before Spring
Before birds begin searching for homes (usually late February into March), take a few minutes to:
- Clean out old nesting material
- Remove debris, broken pieces, or old bedding
- Check screws, roofs, and panels for winter wear
- Make sure drainage holes are clear
- Secure the box tightly so it won’t wobble in the wind
A clean, sturdy box increases your chances of hosting a successful brood.
Help Make Nesting Season a Success
Little touches can make your yard even more inviting:
- Offer natural nesting materials like twigs, dried grasses, or pet‑safe fur
- Provide fresh water in a clean birdbath
- Avoid using pesticides as birds rely on insects to feed their chicks
- Add bird feeders nearby to help parents refuel throughout the day
A supportive environment encourages birds to stay and return year after year.
Enjoy a Spring Full of Song
Setting up nesting boxes is a simple, affordable way to enjoy more bird activity this spring while supporting local wildlife. With the right placement, maintenance, and materials, your backyard could become a safe nursery for some of your favourite feathered friends.
Winter Wellness for Dogs: The Right Foods for the Season
Winter has arrived, and while we’re cozy under blankets and sipping warm drinks, our dogs feel the chill too. Winter isn’t just about keeping them warm, it’s about giving them the right nutrition to stay healthy and energetic all season long.
If you’re a pet parent wondering how to support your dog during colder months, here’s what you need to know.
Why Winter Nutrition Matters
Cold weather means your dog uses more energy to stay warm. Without proper nutrition, they can experience fatigue, a dull coat, or lowered immunity. A balanced diet tailored for winter helps keep them strong, active, and happy.
Essential Food Categories for Winter Wellness
- Protein-Packed Meals
Protein is the foundation of your dog’s health. It supports muscle strength and energy—especially important when temperatures drop. Look for high-quality kibble or wet food featuring real meat like chicken, fish, or lamb.
Tip: Check labels for “high-protein” formulas to meet seasonal energy needs.
- Healthy Fats for Warmth
Fats provide concentrated energy and help maintain a shiny coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are key for skin health and warmth. Fish oil or flaxseed are great additions, and many premium foods include these naturally.
Pro Tip: Balance is important, too much fat can lead to weight gain.
- Fibre for Digestive Health
Seasonal changes can affect digestion. Fibre from carrots, pumpkin, or sweet potatoes keeps your dog’s gut healthy and helps them feel full. Many complete diets include fibre-rich ingredients for convenience. - Vitamins & Minerals for Immunity
Winter can challenge your dog’s immune system. Nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc help fight seasonal stress. Choose foods fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to keep their defences strong. - Hydration-Friendly Options
Dogs often drink less water in winter. Wet food or pet-safe broths can help maintain hydration. Serving warm broth over kibble is a comforting way to boost fluid intake.
Extra Tips for Winter Care
- Adjust Portions: If your dog is less active, reduce food slightly to avoid weight gain.
- Serve Warm Meals: A little warmth makes mealtime more inviting.
- Keep Them Cozy: Blankets, coats, and indoor play keep your dog comfortable and happy.
The Bottom Line
Winter doesn’t have to slow your dog down. By focusing on protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and hydration, you’ll help them thrive through the season. Explore Feeds’n Needs’ selection of premium pet foods and winter care essentials—because a healthy dog is a happy dog.
Prevent Cabin Fever in Pets During Long Winters
Short daylight, icy sidewalks, and stormy stretches can reduce outdoor time. Enrichment keeps pets mentally engaged, reduces anxiety, and prevents boredom behaviors (chewing, vocalizing, scratching).
Dogs: Indoor Activities
- Puzzle Feeders: Slow feeding, boost problem-solving.
- Scent Games: Hide treats in boxes or towels and let them “hunt.”
- Training Bursts: 10-minute sessions to learn new cues and tricks.
- Indoor Agility: Use cones, chairs, and blanket tunnels for obstacle fun.
- Tug & Fetch: In hallways or basements and mind slippery floors.
Cats: Indoor Activities
- Vertical Spaces: Add shelves or cat trees for climbing.
- Hunt & Pounce: Wand toys, laser pointers (end with a real catch like treats).
- Foraging Feeders: Scatter kibble in snuffle mats or puzzle toys.
- Window Watching: Place bird-friendly feeders outside windows for safe viewing.
Routine & Environment
- Maintain a consistent routine: meals, play, rest.
- Use cozy beds away from drafts.
- Add background nature sounds for calming ambience.
Maritime-Friendly Tips
- After storm closures, plan micro-walks when sidewalks are cleared.
- Choose grippy booties for dogs to prevent slips.
- Keep salt off paws: wipe after outdoor exposure; use pet-safe de-icers.
Explore puzzle toys, snuffle mats, interactive feeders, booties, and pet-safe de-icers at Feeds’n Needs – your local partner for winter pet wellness.
Winter Bird Feeding Myths Debunked
Why Myth-Busting Matters
In the Maritimes, winter can mean freeze-thaw cycles, coastal winds, nor’easters, and icy conditions which make natural food scarce for birds. Responsible feeding helps local species like Black-capped Chickadees, Blue Jays, Red-breasted Nuthatches, and Downy Woodpeckers stay healthy through the season.
Myth #1: “Feeding Birds Makes Them Dependent”
- Fact: Birds are opportunistic. They balance natural food sources (seeds, berries, insects) with feeders. Your feeder is supplemental, especially during storms or deep freezes.
- Your Action: Keep feeders consistent but don’t worry if you miss a day because birds will continue to forage widely.
Myth #2: “Feeding Disrupts Migration”
- Fact: Most overwintering species in the Maritimes aren’t migrating. For migrants, daylight and genetics drive migration, not feeders.
- Your Action: Offer high-energy foods (black oil sunflower, suet) to sustain overwintering birds during cold snaps.
Myth #3: “Bread Is Fine for Birds”
- Fact: Bread lacks nutrients and can harm birds. Choose quality seeds and suet instead.
- Your Action: Stock black oil sunflower, peanut pieces, Nyjer (for finches), and suet with nuts or insects.
Myth #4: “Birds Don’t Need Water in Winter”
- Fact: Birds need clean, unfrozen water for drinking and feather care.
- Your Action: Add a heated bird bath or place warm water in shallow dishes and refresh as needed.
Myth #5: “Cleaning Feeders Isn’t Necessary”
- Fact: Dirty feeders can spread disease. Winter cleaning is as important as summer.
- Your Action: Clean feeders every 1–2 weeks with a 9:1 water-to-bleach solution and rinse thoroughly.
Other Tips
- Shelter from wind: Place feeders near spruce or cedar hedges to reduce exposure.
- Snow management: Clear perches and trays after snowfall.
- Storm prep: Top up feeders before nor’easters; switch to suet cages and hopper feeders that shield seed.
Support local birds this winter. Shop wild bird feed, suet, and heated bird baths at Feeds’n Needs across the Maritimes.
Keep Indoor Plants Thriving In Winter
Winter Challenges in Maritime Homes
Dry indoor air from baseboard or wood heat, short daylight, and drafts from coastal winds can stress plants. These simple habits keep your indoor green friends thriving.
1) Light: Make Every Ray Count
- Move plants to south or east-facing windows for maximum winter light.
- Rotate weekly for even growth.
- Use LED grow lights for low-light species or rooms with limited sun.
2) Humidity: Combat Dry Air
- Group plants together to create a microclimate.
- Place pots on pebble trays with water (not touching the pot base).
- Avoid misting near windows during freeze-thaw, it can lead to fungal spots.
- Consider a small humidifier for tropical plants like monstera or ferns.
3) Watering: Less Is More
- Test soil with your finger. Water only when the top inch is dry.
- Water thoroughly, then empty saucers to prevent root rot.
- Reduce watering frequency for succulents and cacti.
4) Temperature & Drafts
- Keep plants away from cold windows and heater vents.
- Ideal indoor temps: 18–24°C for most houseplants.
5) Feeding & Repotting
- Hold off on fertilizer until late February/March when growth resumes.
- Repot only if severely root-bound; otherwise wait for spring.
Maritime-Friendly Plants
- Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Pothos (tolerate lower light).
- Spider Plant, Peace Lily (handle variable humidity).
- Herbs like rosemary and mint with supplemental light.
Find LED grow lights, humidity trays, potting mix, and plant care tools at Feeds’n Needs to keep your winter plant corner flourishing.
Conclusion
With proper care—dry bedding, good ventilation, and a few preventive measures—you can keep your flock safe and healthy all winter long. Here’s to happy hens and a frostbite-free season!
How to Prevent Frostbite in Chickens
Cold weather can be tough on backyard flocks, and frostbite is one of the most common winter challenges for chicken owners. Understanding what frostbite is, how to recognize it, and how to prevent it can make all the difference in keeping your birds healthy and comfortable.
What Is Frostbite in Chickens?
Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, typically affecting a chicken’s comb, wattles, and sometimes feet. Because these areas have small surface areas, frostbite can set in quickly—especially during extreme cold or wind chills. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage.
Signs of Frostbite
Watch for these symptoms:
- Early Stage: Combs and wattles turn gray; feet may appear dark red.
- Advanced Stage: Swelling in large combs and wattles, blackened tissue, or necrotic areas. Severe frostbite often cannot be reversed.
Chickens are good at hiding discomfort, so knowing their normal behavior helps you spot problems early.
What to Do If Frostbite Occurs
If you notice frostbite:
- Warm Slowly: Use a warm, damp cloth on combs and wattles for 15–20 minutes. For feet, a shallow lukewarm bath works well. Avoid rapid warming or rubbing the tissue.
- Isolate & Monitor: Place the bird in a warm, draft-free area with deep bedding. Apply a hydrogel spray to promote healing.
- Watch for Infection: Severe cases may involve blisters or tissue loss—contact a vet if needed.
What Temperature Puts Chickens at Risk?
When temps drop below 32°F (0°C)—especially with wind chill—frostbite becomes a real threat. Roosters and breeds with large combs are most vulnerable. Daily checks and proper shelter are essential.
7 Tips to Prevent Frostbite
- Apply a Protective Salve: Use coconut oil or bag balm on combs and wattles (avoid Vaseline in extreme cold—it can freeze).
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Good airflow prevents moisture buildup, reducing frostbite risk.
- Provide Electrolytes & Vitamins: These can help birds cope with cold stress.
- Create Ample Roosting Space: Chickens huddle for warmth—make sure everyone has room.
- Avoid Open Water Bowls: Use nipple waterers to prevent wet feathers and feet.
- Keep Bedding Dry: Damp bedding increases frostbite risk. Use deep litter and refresh often.
- Add a Safe Heat Source: In extreme cold, consider a heating panel or caged lamp (avoid fire hazards).
Can Chickens Recover From Frostbite?
Recovery takes time—often 4–6 weeks. Dead tissue will slough off naturally, leaving healthy tissue behind. The biggest risk is infection, so monitor closely and consult a vet if needed.
Conclusion
With proper care—dry bedding, good ventilation, and a few preventive measures—you can keep your flock safe and healthy all winter long. Here’s to happy hens and a frostbite-free season!
