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Late fall and winter provide a new set of challenges for our feathered friends. Most of the lush vegetation, full of berries and seeds, has withered away. In addition, most insects are either dead or dormant and the heavy snows will soon bury most natural sources of wild bird food. Not only will the birds’ food sources be changing, but their nutritional needs will, as well. Foods higher in fat and oils will help supply them with more energy for winter survival. Though most wild birds survive just fine on natural food sources, many species will come to feeders to...

While the coming of winter does mean cozy nights by the fire and hot cocoa, there is no doubt that the switch to life indoors can, at times, be a bit stifling. If you are feeling bouts of excess energy during these months, odds are, so are your pets! Like you, your pets daily routine changes in the winter, and so must the activities that keep them busy.While some pets (such as Bernese Mountain dogs or Huskies) are born to live in a snowy environment, many pets are not. Leaving your dog or cat outside for the full day can...

As it gets cold outside, the potential for harsh weather conditions requires some extra care for your canine and feline friends. Here are some tips to help your pet remain safe and comfortable during the winter months ahead.Provide fresh, clean water at all times. Frozen water in outside bowls is a common winter hazard, so check it often and use a plastic bowl instead of a metal one (remember “The Christmas Story!”). Your dog will thank you. Heated water bowls are available if necessary.Bring Fido inside during sub-zero temperatures and winter storms. Even though most dogs grow a winter coat...

Realize that the nights are getting colder and make sure your outdoor pet has a warm, dry shelter that is elevated off the ground, insulated for warmth, and draft free. Add some soft, thick bedding for comfort.Outdoor pets require extra calories to keep warm, so ask you veterinarian whether you should increase the rations slightly. With winter weather coming, now is prime time to get your pet into healthy body condition by feeding your pet a good, quality diet before he faces the stresses of inclement weather.A frost or freeze isn't out of the question this time of year. Should...

With fewer daylight hours and longer cold nights, natural food sources needed for energy to keep warm are scarce. Water supplies can be frozen or snow covered. When the challenge of finding natural shelter increases, wild birds will oftentimes turn to man made habitats to provide refuge from winter winds, rain, snow and ice.• Providing Food: During the winter months, provide high calorie and high fat foods. Offer oil sunflower seed in the winter. It has twice the calories per pound than striped sunflower and its thin shells make less mess when discarded by the birds. Suet is a great...