Fall Garden Prep

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to give your garden a little TLC before winter sets in. Prepping your garden in the fall not only keeps things tidy but also sets the stage for a healthy, vibrant growing season next year. Here’s how to wrap up the season with care:

Clean Up and Sanitize Your Garden

A tidy garden is a healthy garden. Start by removing any spent annuals and vegetable plants that have finished producing. This helps prevent pests and diseases from lingering through the winter.

• Toss diseased plants in the trash—not the compost pile—to avoid spreading pathogens.
• Leave healthy roots from nitrogen-fixing plants like beans and peas in the soil. They’ll break down naturally and enrich your garden.
• Weed thoroughly, especially those that have gone to seed, to reduce next spring’s weed load.

Enrich Your Soil

Fall is a great time to give your soil a boost so it’s ready to support new growth come spring.

• Test your soil every few years to check pH and nutrient levels. Fall is ideal for applying amendments like lime, which need time to take effect.
• Add compost—a 2–3 inch layer will feed your soil over the winter as it breaks down.
• Mulch generously with shredded leaves, straw, or wood chips to protect the soil and retain moisture.

Care for Perennials and Bulbs

Your perennials and bulbs need a little attention before the frost hits.

• Divide and transplant overcrowded perennials to give them room to thrive.
• Water deeply before the ground freezes to help roots stay hydrated through winter.
• Plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips and daffodils now for a colorful show next year.
• Dig up tender bulbs such as dahlias and gladiolus and store them indoors.

 Prep Your Tools and Equipment

Don’t forget to take care of your gardening gear!

• Clean and sharpen tools to keep them in good shape and ready for spring.
• Drain hoses and irrigation systems to prevent freezing and cracking.
• Store pots and containers in a dry place to avoid damage from freeze-thaw cycles.

Fall Planting and Final Harvest

There’s still time to enjoy a few more crops before winter.

• Plant garlic between September and the end of November.
• Harvest remaining produce before the first hard frost. Green tomatoes? Let them ripen on a sunny windowsill indoors.

With a little effort now, your garden will be healthier, your tools will last longer, and you’ll be one step ahead when spring rolls around. Happy fall gardening!

What to do When Your Dog Gets Skunked

It’s a scenario no pet owner wants to face: your dog comes bounding back from the yard, tail wagging… and smelling absolutely awful. Yep, they’ve been skunked.

Skunks are usually peaceful creatures, but when they feel threatened, they don’t hesitate to unleash their powerful defense mechanism — a foul-smelling spray that can linger for days. If your dog has had a run-in with one, here’s what you need to know to handle the situation calmly and effectively.

Ensure Your Dog is Okay

Skunk spray isn’t just smelly — it can cause physical discomfort and, in rare cases, health issues. Here are a few things to check right away:

• Eyes: If your dog was sprayed in the face, their eyes might be red or irritated. Flush them gently with clean water or pet-safe eye drops.
• Mouth: If the spray got into their mouth, rinse thoroughly with water to help remove the taste and odor.
• Wounds or Bites: Look for any signs of injury. If your dog was bitten, especially by a potential skunk with rabis, contact your vet immediately.
• Unusual Symptoms: Watch for signs like lethargy, pale gums, or dark-colored urine. These could indicate a rare reaction affecting red blood cells and should be checked by a vet.

Keep the Stink Outside

As tempting as it is to rush your dog indoors, resist the urge. Skunk odor can quickly spread through your home and cling to furniture, carpets, and clothing. Keep your dog outside while you assess the situation and prepare to clean them up.

How to Remove Skunk Smell from Your Dog

Feeds’n Needs carries products to help remove skunk smell, but you can also whip up a DIY solution that’s surprisingly effective. Here’s a tried-and-true homemade remedy:

Ingredients:

• 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap

Instructions:

1. Mix the ingredients in a bowl (do not store — it can build pressure).
2. Apply the mixture to your dog’s fur, avoiding the eyes and ears.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
4. Follow up with a full bath using pet shampoo and conditioner.

Note: This mixture may lighten dark fur temporarily and can damage fabrics, so use with care.

Alternative Option: Vinegar Rinse

If you don’t have hydrogen peroxide on hand, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply and rinse as above.

If DIY isn’t your thing, Feeds’n Needs carries a range of skunk odor removal products, including:

• Skouts Honor® Skunk Odor Eliminator
• Nature’s Miracle Skunk Odor Remover Spray & Shampoo
• Loona Pet Atomizer
• De-Skunk Odor Destroying Shampoo

Availability may vary by location, so check with your local store.

Special Care for the Face

When treating your dog’s face, be extra cautious. Avoid getting any cleaning solution near their eyes, ears, or nose. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the affected areas, and rinse with water if needed. If irritation persists, contact your vet.

Prevention Tips: Keep Skunks Away

The best way to deal with skunk spray? Avoid it altogether. Here are some tips to make your yard less inviting to skunks:

• Secure food sources: Store pet food and bird seed in sealed containers.
• Block hiding spots: Close off access to decks, sheds, and wood piles.
• Use deterrents: Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can scare skunks away.
• Discourage denning: Stuff suspected holes with leaves or paper, or sprinkle kitty litter nearby.

Conclusion

Getting skunked is never fun — for you or your dog. But with a little patience, the right cleaning method, and a watchful eye for any health concerns, your pup will be back to their usual self in no time. And next time they go sniffing around the yard, hopefully they’ll think twice before getting too close to a skunk.

How to Keep Your Cat Hydrated

Staying hydrated is just as important for cats as it is for us. Water supports digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and overall health. Unlike what many people believe, milk or cream is not a good substitute—most cats are actually lactose intolerant, and dairy can leave them with an upset stomach. That’s why fresh, clean water should always be their number one source of hydration.

If you’ve noticed your cat isn’t drinking much, don’t worry—many felines are naturally picky about water. Here are some ways to encourage them to drink more:

1. Fresh Water Daily

Cats can be finicky about their water quality. Make it a habit to change and refull their bowl daily so it’s always fresh and clean.

2. Offer Multiple Water Stations

Placing several bowls around the house ensures your cat never has to wader far to get a drink. This is especially helpful in multi-level homes.

3. Choose the Right Bowl

Some cats dislike the taste or smell that comes from plastic or metal. Glass or ceramic bowls are usually a safer bet. Wide, shallow bowls are ideal—they help keep whiskers from getting squished and allow cats to feel secure while drinking. You can find a wide variety of water bowls at your local Feeds’n Needs.

4. Try a Water Fountain

Running water naturally attracts cats (hence the fascination with faucets). A pet water fountain keeps water circulating and fresh, which can encourage reluctant drinkers. You can find pet water fountains at your local Feeds’n Needs.

5. Keep Water Away from the Litter Box

Cats instinctively avoid drinking near where they go to the bathroom—it’s a survival instinct from their wild ancestors. Place bowls in a different room to make the water source more inviting.

6. Separate Food and Water

Many cats also prefer to keep their eating and drinking spots apart. Position their water bowl in a different area than their food dish to  mimic their natural instincts.

7. Add Moisture with Wet Food

Canned or pouch food contains up to 80% water, making it an easy way to boost hydration. If your cat currently eats mostly dry kibble, introducing wet food gradually can help balance their water intake.

8. Make Water More Tempting

A splash of tuna water (from tuna in water, not oil) or a little unsalted chicken broth can make plain water more appealing. Be cautious about added salt or seasonings.

Conclusion

Cats are often subtle about their needs, but ensuring proper hydration can make a huge difference in their health and comfort. By offering fresh water, experimenting with different bowls or fountains, and even adjusting their diet, you can help your feline friend stay happy, healthy, and hydrated.

Backyard Birder’s August Checklist

August is one of the most rewarding months for backyard birding. From the lively chatter of finches to the quick, darting visits of hummingbirds, you get a front-row seat to nature at its finest. But the heat of summer can be challenging for our feathered friends—especially as many prepare for late-summer and early-fall migration.

By making a few simple adjustments, you can keep your backyard buzzing with activity while giving birds the food, water, and safe spaces they need.

1. Keep Bird Baths Fresh and Clean

In hot weather, water sources can dry up or become stagnant quickly. Clean your bird baths often and refill them with fresh water daily. Birds rely on water not just for drinking, but also for bathing, which helps them keep their feathers in top condition.

2. Offer High-Quality, Energy-Rich Food

Provide a mix of high-calorie seeds, suet, and nuts. These energy-packed foods help birds maintain strength through the summer heat and build reserves for their upcoming migration.

3. Maintain Clean Feeders

Seed can mold or clump in humid weather. Empty and wash feeders regularly with hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow them to dry before refilling. Clean feeders are healthier for birds and more inviting to visitors.

4. Keep Hummingbird Nectar Fresh

For hummingbird lovers, fresh nectar is a must. In summer heat, change and clean feeders every 2–3 days to prevent fermentation and bacteria growth.

5. Leave Natural Areas Untouched

Skip the urge to rake or blow away leaves as it provides shelter, food, and overwintering space for insects—which in turn feed young birds and other wildlife.

6. Say No to Pesticides

Avoid chemical pesticides in your yard. They can harm beneficial insects, reduce natural food sources, and even poison birds. Instead, encourage natural pest control by creating a healthy, balanced ecosystem.

Conclusion

August birding is a way to support wildlife when they need it most. By providing fresh water, nutritious food, and safe spaces, you’ll enjoy more bird activity and know you’re helping these incredible creatures thrive.

Grab your binoculars, fill those feeders, and enjoy the beauty of summer birding right from your own backyard.

UV Safety for Pets

Warm weather means more time outdoors, but while we enjoy the sunshine, it’s important to remember our pets need protection from harmful UV rays too. Sun exposure can be beneficial in small doses—but without proper precautions, pets can suffer sunburns and even face long-term skin issues, including cancer. Luckily, a few simple steps can keep your furry companions safe while they soak up the sun.

Can Pets Get a Sunburn?
Yes, they can—and not just hairless breeds. Any animal can get sunburned, especially in spots where fur is sparse, such as the nose, ears, belly, and around surgical sites. Light-colored or thin-coated pets are more vulnerable.
Even indoor cats who love to nap in sunny windows aren’t fully safe—standard glass doesn’t block all UV rays, so they can still get burned.

What Does a Sunburn Look Like on a Pet?
A sunburn on pets appears much like it does on humans: red, dry, sensitive skin that may crack or peel. Your pet might flinch when touched, lick or scratch at the area, or show signs of discomfort. Severe burns can lead to blisters or even fever, so it’s important not to ignore the warning signs.

Treating a Sunburn
Minor sunburns typically heal on their own, but it’s best to consult your vet if the area is red, painful, or if your pet seems distressed. Treatment often includes cleaning the area, applying a soothing ointment, and possibly trimming fur around the burn to help it heal.

Sun Safety Tips for Pets
To keep your pet safe under the sun:

• Use vet-approved sunscreen on vulnerable areas (never use human sunscreen—it can be toxic to pets).
• Opt for sun-protective pet clothing if your pet tolerates it.
• Plan walks and playtime for early morning or evening when the sun is less intense.
• Seek shade on outings and keep pets cool and hydrated.
• Install UV-blocking window film or shades if your indoor pet loves to bask in sunbeams.

Always check with your veterinarian for recommended sunscreen products and how to apply them safely.

Skin Cancer Risks
Repeated sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer in pets, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Regularly check your pet’s skin for any unusual lumps, bumps, red spots, or flaky patches. Early detection makes a significant difference.
If you notice anything concerning, schedule a veterinary exam promptly. Not every change is dangerous, but it’s always better to be safe.

Hot Spots: Another Summer Skin Concern
In warmer months, pets are also more prone to hot spots—raw, inflamed patches caused by constant licking, scratching, or biting. These can be triggered by allergies, insect bites, or matted fur and often become infected quickly.
Treatment involves trimming the hair around the area, cleaning the skin, and applying medications.

Just like us, pets need sun protection. With a little planning and attention, you can help your four-legged friends enjoy the sunny days safely—whether they’re lounging by the window or running around in the yard.

Preventing Heat Stress in Horses

Summer is a beautiful time to enjoy the outdoors with your horse. But as temperatures climb, so does the risk of heat-related illness. Just like humans, horses can suffer from heat stress and, in severe cases, heat stroke. That’s why it’s critical to understand how to recognize the signs and take proactive steps to keep your horse safe and comfortable.

What Is Heat Stress?
Heat stress occurs when a horse’s internal cooling system is no longer able to regulate body temperature effectively. This often happens during high temperatures, high humidity, or intense exercise. If left unmanaged, heat stress can lead to serious complications like dehydration, shock, or even collapse.
The horse’s normal body temperature typically ranges from 37.5–38.5°C (99–101.5°F). Anything above 40.5°C (105°F) is cause for concern and may indicate the onset of heat stroke—a potentially life-threatening emergency.

Warning Signs to Watch For
Knowing the signs of heat stress and heat stroke can make all the difference. Monitor your horse closely during warm weather or periods of exertion.

Common signs of heat stress include:

• Elevated rectal temperature (above 103°F / 39.5°C)
• Rapid breathing and flared nostrils
• Increased heart rate
• Lethargy or reluctance to move
• Excessive sweating or, conversely, no sweating
• Dehydration: tacky gums, sunken eyes, or reduced urination
• Diminished appetite

In severe cases (heat stroke), symptoms may escalate to:

• Rectal temperature exceeding 105°F (40.5°C)
• Staggering, incoordination, or collapse
• Very rapid heart and respiratory rates
• Extended skin tent when testing hydration
• Signs of agitation or distress

If you observe any of these signs, stop all activity, move your horse to a shaded area, and begin cooling them down immediately. If symptoms persist or worsen within 20 minutes, call your veterinarian.

Why Horses Struggle in the Heat
Despite being incredible athletes, horses are not as heat-tolerant as we might think. They generate a lot of heat during exercise due to their large muscle mass and relatively small surface area for heat loss. Sweating is their main cooling mechanism—losing up to 4 gallons per hour in extreme heat.
Unfortunately, high humidity prevents sweat from evaporating effectively, trapping heat and raising the risk of dehydration and electrolyte loss.

Contributing Risk Factors
Some horses are more vulnerable to heat stress than others. Keep an eye on:

• Foals and senior horses – less efficient thermoregulation
• Overweight or unfit horses – fat insulates, making it harder to cool down
• Long travel – confined spaces with poor airflow and limited water access
• Thick coats or heavy blanketing

Prevention Strategies
When it comes to heat stress, prevention is always the best medicine. Try these management strategies to help your horse beat the heat:

Modify Exercise Routines

• Avoid riding during peak heat (typically 12–5 PM)
• Use early mornings or cooler evenings for training
• Watch for early fatigue—even low-intensity work in heat can be harmful

Prioritize Hydration & Electrolytes

• Always provide access to clean, cool water
• In hot weather, horses may drink up to 19 gallons per day
• Use electrolyte supplements to replenish minerals lost through sweat (especially sodium, potassium, and chloride)
• Avoid giving large quantities of plain water alone after heavy sweating, as this can dilute existing electrolytes

Utilize Cooling Tools

• Install fans or mist systems in barns and shelters
• Walk your horse in shaded areas after workouts
• Hose down with cool water
• Use ice packs or cold towels on the neck and chest if temperatures remain high
• Skip cooling sheets during active heat stress—they can trap heat if the horse is still sweating

Consider Clipping

• Thick coats can trap heat—body clipping in the summer can help some horses cool more efficiently

Emergency Response: Cooling Down a Hot Horse
If your horse becomes overheated:

1. Move to shade or a well-ventilated area
2. Hose down with cool water continuously (focus on large muscle groups and neck)
3. Walk gently to promote circulation
4. Use ice on large blood vessels along the neck and shoulders if the temperature is dangerously high
5. Offer small sips of water with electrolytes
6. Monitor rectal temperature—if it doesn’t drop below 103°F (39.5°C) within 15–20 minutes, call your vet

Conclusion

Heat stress is a real concern during the summer months, but it’s also highly preventable. Understanding the warning signs and taking simple, proactive steps can protect your horse’s health and ensure you both enjoy the season safely.

Effective Weed Control: Essentials for Your Lawn

Maintaining a pristine lawn in the Maritimes can be challenging, especially when weeds start to invade your green space. However, with the right strategies and products, you can keep your lawn looking its best. Here are some essential tips and products for effective weed control.

Understanding Common Weeds in the Maritimes

The first step in effective weed control is identifying the common weeds that plague lawns in the Maritimes. Some of the most prevalent include dandelions, crabgrass, and clover. Knowing what you’re up against will help you choose the right control methods.

Specific Weeds in the Maritimes

• Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): A widely recognized weed with yellow flowers and rosette-shaped leaves.
• Chickweed (Stellaria media): A low-growing weed with small, white flowers and fleshy leaves. 
• Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense): A perennial weed with spiny leaves and purple flower heads. 
• Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.): A common grassy weed that grows in lawns and other disturbed areas.
• Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis): A vining weed with trumpet-shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves. 
• Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti): An annual weed with large, velvety leaves and pale yellow flowers.
• Yellow Rocket (Barbarea vulgaris): A biennial weed with yellow flowers and dissected leaves. 
• Yellow Nut Sedge (Cyperus esculentus): A grassy weed with rhizomes (underground stems) that can be difficult to control. 
• Tansy Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea): A biennial weed with yellow flowers and pinnate leaves. 
• White Cockle (Lychnis alba): A biennial weed with white flowers and lance-shaped leaves.
• Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca): A native perennial weed with pinkish-white flowers and lance-shaped leaves, also important for monarch butterflies.
• Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens): A low-growing ground cover with oval, green leaves and red berries.
• Common Blue Wood-Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium): A perennial plant with blue or purple flowers and heart-shaped leaves.

Factors Influencing Weed Growth

• Soil conditions: Weeds thrive in disturbed or nutrient-poor soils. 
• Disturbed areas: Roadsides, pastures, and harvested tree lots are prone to weed invasion.
• Climate: Environmental conditions like temperature and moisture can influence weed distribution and growth. 

Weeds can tell you a lot about your soil because all plant species prefer specific environmental conditions to thrive. Does the soil have too little nitrogen or is it eroded or too compacted? Here is a more detailed review of each type of weed and the specific factors that influence their growth on lawns:

Note: While some plants are commonly considered weeds, some native species, like common milkweed, can also be beneficial to the ecosystem. 

Some ‘weeds’ such as Goldenrod (Solidago species) and Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) are native species which support pollinating insects and birds and contribute to the ecosystem. Milkweed (Asclepias species), for example, provides a nursery for the offspring of Monarch butterflies. Also, Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus carota) is also considered a weed but can be beneficial in that it attracts predatory wasps, flies and lady beetles which prey on garden pests such as aphids.

Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides are a great way to prevent weeds from taking root in your lawn. These products work by inhibiting the germination of weed seeds. Apply them early in the season before weeds start to grow. There are many popular options available, speak with your local Feeds’n Needs experts to find the right solution for your green space.

Remember to always read the label for application specifications.

Post-Emergent Herbicides

For weeds that have already established themselves, post-emergent herbicides are necessary. These products target and kill weeds that are actively growing. There are many popular options available, speak with your local Feeds’n Needs experts to find the right solution for your green space. Remember to always read the label for application specifications.

Organic Weed Control Options

If you prefer an eco-friendlier approach, there are organic weed control options available. These products are safe for pets and children and are effective in managing weeds. There are many popular options available, speak with your local Feeds’n Needs experts to find the right solution for your green space.

Manual Weed Removal

Sometimes, the best solution is good old-fashioned manual removal. Tools like weed pullers and hoes can help you remove weeds by the root, preventing them from growing back.

Lawn Maintenance Practices

Maintaining a healthy lawn is one of the best defenses against weeds. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing can keep your grass strong and resilient. Here are some tips:

• Mow Regularly: Keep your grass at a height of 2.5-3 inches (or use the one-third rule) to prevent weed growth. Mowing is a crucial maintenance practice for turf, significantly influencing the type and amount of weeds present. Following the one-third rule (never mow off more than one-third of the plant) is beneficial, but there’s more to consider. As turf grows taller and denser, it shades the soil, preventing weed seeds from germinating due to lack of sunlight. Increased mowing height alone can reduce weed pressure significantly.

During summer, raising mowing heights to three inches or more helps turf grow thicker and reduces weed pressure. Taller turf also promotes deeper root growth, enhancing the turf’s ability to withstand heat, drought, disease, and insect pressure. Additionally, keeping mower blades sharp and returning clippings to the turf (using a mulching mower blade helps with this) contributing up to two pounds of nitrogen per year.

• Water Deeply: Water your lawn deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
• Fertilize: Use a balanced fertilizer to keep your lawn healthy and vigorous. Remember to always read the label for application specifications.

To get your green space looking it’s best, talk with one of our Feeds’n Needs experts in store. They will help you find the best solution to control and prevent weed growth.

Conclusion

Weed control in the Maritimes requires a combination of prevention, treatment, and maintenance. By using the right products and practices, you can keep your lawn looking lush and weed-free. Visit your local Feeds’n Needs to find all the essentials you need for effective weed control.

Flea Control for Your Pets

Fleas are more than just a nuisance — they can cause serious health problems for your pets and infest your home before you even know it. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned pro, understanding how to prevent, treat, and eliminate fleas is essential for keeping your furry companions happy and healthy.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how dogs and cats get get fleas, what to do if your pet has them, and how to prevent them.

Why Flea Prevention Matters
Flea infestations aren’t just uncomfortable — they can pose real health risks to your pets. Even a few fleas can multiply rapidly and cause:
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)
Some pets are allergic to flea saliva, and just one bite can lead to severe itching, hair loss, scabbing, and even skin infections.
Tapeworms
When pets groom themselves and accidentally ingest an infected flea, they can develop tapeworms, which can lead to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
Anemia
Fleas feed on your pet’s blood — and in large numbers, they can cause flea-bite anemia, a serious condition especially dangerous for puppies, kittens, or older pets.

How Do Pets Get Fleas?
Understanding how fleas make their way onto your pets is key to prevention. Here are the most common sources:
Other Animals
Playdates with other pets, dog parks, and even walks around the neighborhood can lead to flea exposure.
Your Home
Fleas can hitch a ride on humans, clothing, or visitors, then lay eggs in carpets, bedding, and upholstery.
Pet-Focused Places
Doggy daycares, grooming salons, boarding facilities, and shelters can all harbor fleas if proper prevention isn’t in place.
Outdoor Environments
Yards, parks, and trails are flea hotspots — especially during warm months when fleas thrive.

What To Do If Your Pet Has Fleas
If you suspect a flea infestation, don’t panic — but do act fast:
Call Your Vet
Your veterinarian can confirm the infestation and recommend the most effective treatment. Options may include oral medications, topical treatments, or flea collars.
Bathe Your Pet
A vet-approved flea shampoo can help kill fleas on contact. Use lukewarm water and be thorough — especially around the neck and tail. Feeds’n Needs has a variety of flea shampoos to help get rid of fleas!
Use a Flea Comb
Flea combs are specially designed to remove adult fleas and flea dirt from your pet’s fur.

Getting Rid of Fleas in Your Home
Fleas don’t stay on your pet — they infest your home, too. To break the cycle, you need a multi-step approach:
Treat Every Pet
Even if only one pet seems affected, treat all animals in the household. Talk to your local Feeds’n Needs Expert about safe options for each pet, especially if you have cats and dogs.
Vacuum Daily
Vacuum carpets, rugs, baseboards, and under furniture thoroughly and frequently. Empty your vacuum outside to prevent re-infestation.
Wash Everything
Wash pet bedding, blankets, and any soft surfaces your pet touches. Use hot water and a pet-safe detergent.

Flea Prevention Tips & Tricks
Prevention is the most powerful tool you have. Once you’re flea-free, here’s how to stay that way:
Stay Consistent With Treatments
Follow  year-round flea preventatives. Options include monthly topicals, oral medications, flea collars, and more. Don’t skip doses! We have lots of flea preventative options at Feeds’n Needs for dogs and cats!
Bathe Regularly
Routine bathing can help you spot fleas early and keep your pet’s skin healthy. Use a flea-repellent shampoo if your vet recommends it.
Check for Signs
Keep an eye out for excessive scratching or flea “dirt” — tiny black specks in your pet’s fur that resemble pepper.
Be Extra Vigilant in Warm Weather
Fleas love warmth and humidity. Peak flea season is spring through fall, but year-round prevention is recommended in most regions.

Flea infestations can be overwhelming, but they’re completely manageable with the right approach. Prevention is always easier than treatment, and a consistent plan — in partnership with your vet — will go a long way in keeping your pets safe.

Whether you’re dealing with fleas now or just looking to stay one step ahead, remember: staying proactive is the best defense. Your pets will thank you — with tail wags, happy purrs, and flea-free cuddles.

Best Time to Prune Trees

Pruning your trees is an essential part of tree care that, when done correctly, can keep your trees healthy, enhance their shape, and even boost fruit production. The key to successful pruning is determined by timing. So, when exactly should you prune trees?
The answer depends on several factors: the type of tree, your pruning goals, and the climate in your area. Let’s break it down to help you determine the best time to grab those shears.

General Pruning Window: Late Winter to Early Spring
For most deciduous trees, the sweet spot for pruning is late winter to early spring—usually between February and May. During this dormant phase, trees are less stressed, and cuts heal faster, reducing the risk of disease or pests.

This is the perfect time to:

• Shape your tree for better form and structure
• Remove dead, damaged, or diseased limbs
• Encourage healthy new growth in the spring

However, not all trees are created equal, and some have specific needs that require special attention.

Tree-Specific Pruning Guidelines

1. Maples, Walnuts, and Birches
   These trees are known for “bleeding” sap if pruned too early. To avoid stressing them, wait until late spring or early summer, once their leaves have fully emerged. The sap loss isn’t typically harmful, but it’s best avoided.
2. Fruit Trees (Apples, Pears, etc.)
   For a strong harvest, prune these trees in late winter, from February to early April. This boosts flower and fruit production and keeps the tree’s structure manageable.
3. Oaks and Elms
   These trees are vulnerable to serious diseases like oak wilt. Avoid pruning them between April 15 and October 15, when disease-carrying insects are active. Instead, prune in late fall or winter to reduce the risk.
4. Spring-Flowering Trees (Magnolias, Dogwoods, etc.)
   Prune after their blooming cycle is complete. This way, you won’t accidentally cut off next year’s buds before they even have a chance to shine.
5. Dead or Damaged Branches
   These should be removed as soon as you spot them, no matter the season. Prompt pruning helps prevent the spread of disease and avoids potential hazards.

Why You Should Avoid Fall Pruning
It might be tempting to tidy up trees in the fall, but it’s generally not recommended. Pruning in late autumn can stimulate new growth that’s too tender to withstand winter conditions. Save major cuts for dormant or post-bloom periods instead.

Pruning Tips for Success

• Use the Right Tools: Sharp, clean pruning shears make cleaner cuts and help prevent infections.
• Think Ahead: Always consider the natural shape and growth pattern of your tree before making cuts. Strategic pruning now leads to stronger, better-looking trees later.
• Don’t Overdo It: Avoid removing more than 25% of a tree’s canopy in one season unless it’s for safety or disease management.

Quick Pruning Guide
To help you stay on track, here’s a simple pruning schedule for different types of trees:

By pruning at the right time and using the right techniques, you can set your trees up for a long, healthy life—and maybe even a bumper crop of fruit!
So go ahead—grab those shears and give your trees the care they deserve. Happy pruning!

Prepare Your Lawn for Spring

As the days are now becoming longer and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to start prepping your lawn. With a little springtime effort, you’ll set your yard up for a healthy, vibrant season ahead. Here are some easy steps to ensure your lawn thrives this spring:

Raking
Raking is essential to spring lawn care. It helps remove debris and prepare your grass for healthy growth. However, it’s crucial that the grass is dry enough before you begin. You can check this by walking on the lawn—if your footprints remain, the grass is still too moist, and raking could cause damage.
It’s best to rake when the grass is still dormant and brown. Waiting too long could harm the healthy roots and set back your lawn’s recovery. Removing leaves, dead grass, and other debris allows your lawn to breathe and encourages new growth as the weather warms up.

Aerating
Aeration is essential for improving soil health and allowing water and fertilizer to penetrate deeper. This process is especially beneficial if your lawn is over five years old or has compacted soil. Spring is an excellent time to aerate because the soil is often moist and more forgiving. However, it can be done at any point during the season.

Fertilizing
After the long winter, your lawn needs a little help getting back to full health. Choose fertilizer with a slow-release formula which has a higher amount of phosphorous to encourage root growth. Once your grass is green and actively growing (around June), you can switch to a higher-nitrogen fertilizer to help maintain its lush appearance.

Overseeding
If your lawn is looking a little sparse, overseeding is a great way to encourage new growth and thicken it up. Start by spreading a thin layer of compost or soil over your lawn after it’s been raked. Then, sprinkle high-quality grass seed and cover it with another light layer of compost. This extra layer helps keep the seed moist and protects it from birds. Be sure to water it lightly every day until the seeds are established, which usually takes about 2–3 weeks, depending on the weather.
For more tips on overseeding, check out our blog, Overseeding Your Lawn in Spring.

Preventing Weeds
Bare or thin spots on your lawn can attract weeds like crabgrass, which can quickly take over. Crabgrass is tough and thrives in dry, hot conditions when cool-season grasses are dormant. It can survive low mowing, foot traffic, and poor soil conditions. The key to controlling it is early prevention. Crabgrass seeds start germinating when the soil warms to 13°C-16°C for five consecutive days. A combination of pre-emergent herbicides and a thick, healthy lawn can significantly reduce its growth. The thicker the grass, the better it can fight off weeds like crabgrass.

Clean Up Debris
Don’t forget to tidy up your lawn and landscape! Clear away any leftover leaves, sticks, or debris from winter. This will help your grass breathe and allow it to thrive as the season progresses. If your lawn has a severe thatch issue, it might be a good time to do a more intense dethatching.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to a healthy, vibrant lawn this spring. The time you invest now will pay off with a beautiful yard all season long!

Sources:
5 simple ways to prepare your lawn this spring | GreenAce Lawn Care, Inc
Preparing Your Lawn for Spring – Greenland Garden Centre