As November settles in across Ontario, we're watching the temperatures drop, the days grow shorter, and our furry companions begin to adjust to the changing season. This month brings us an opportunity to prepare our pets for the long Canadian winter ahead while also taking time to reflect on the deep bonds we share with our animal companions—past and present.
Essential Winter Wellness for Ontario Pets
Winter in our region isn't just about cozy sweaters and hot chocolate. For our pets, the shift from autumn to winter brings real physiological changes that we need to address thoughtfully.
Understanding Cold Weather Impact
When temperatures plummet, our pets' bodies work harder to maintain their core temperature. Dogs and cats with thick double coats naturally fare better than short-haired breeds, but every pet experiences the metabolic shift that comes with cold weather. Senior pets, puppies, kittens, and those with health conditions need extra attention during these months.
Watch for signs your pet is struggling with the cold: excessive shivering, reluctance to go outside, lifting paws off the ground, seeking warm spots constantly, or seeming lethargic. These are your pet's way of telling you they need help staying comfortable.
Protecting Paws and Skin
Salt, de-icers, and ice itself can wreak havoc on sensitive paw pads. Consider investing in quality paw balm to create a protective barrier before walks, and always wipe paws thoroughly when coming inside. For dogs who tolerate them, booties offer excellent protection on particularly harsh days.
Indoor heating can dry out your pet's skin just as much as it dries out ours. If you notice flaking, excessive scratching, or dull coat, your pet might be dealing with winter skin issues. Omega-3 supplements and proper hydration make a significant difference. Yes, hydration matters in winter too—pets often drink less when it's cold, but they still need adequate water intake.
Adjusting Feeding Portions for Winter Months
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Here's something many pet parents don't realize: your pet's nutritional needs can shift significantly during winter, and this applies whether you're feeding kibble, canned food, raw, or a combination.
The Winter Metabolism Shift
Pets who spend time outdoors in cold weather burn more calories maintaining body temperature. Working dogs, outdoor cats, and active pets may actually need increased portions during winter months. However—and this is crucial—most of our companion animals become less active in winter, which means they need fewer calories, not more.
How to Adjust Portions Thoughtfully
Start by honestly assessing your pet's activity level. Are your daily walks shorter because of the cold? Is your cat spending more time curled up on the couch instead of patrolling the halls? These behavioral changes matter.
For pets with decreased winter activity, consider reducing portions by about 10-15% and monitor their body condition over a few weeks. You should be able to feel their ribs easily without seeing them prominently. If you notice weight gain, reduce portions slightly more. If they seem hungry or are losing weight, increase portions gradually.
Feeding Type Doesn't Change the Principle
Whether you feed premium kibble, canned food, raw, or a combination, the principle remains the same: match calories to activity level.
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Kibble feeders: Reduce the amount per meal or eliminate one small snack if you typically offer multiple feedings.
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Canned food feeders: Measure portions carefully, as it's easy to over-serve with wet food.
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Raw feeders: Adjust the percentage of body weight you're feeding based on activity. Less active pets may do well with 2% of ideal body weight rather than 2.5-3%.
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Combination feeders: Look at total daily calories across all food types and adjust accordingly.
The goal isn't to put your pet on a restrictive diet—it's to keep them at a healthy weight year-round by being responsive to seasonal changes.
Don't Forget Treats
Winter often means more time indoors together, which can lead to more treat-giving. Those extra training treats, and "just because" snacks add up. Factor treats into your pet's total daily caloric intake, especially during less active months.
Indoor Exercise and Mental Stimulation
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Long Canadian winters mean more indoor time, and a bored pet can quickly become a destructive or anxious pet. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise—sometimes more so.
Creative Indoor Exercise Ideas
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Hide and seek: Hide treats or toys around the house and encourage your pet to find them. This engages their natural foraging instincts.
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Fetch: Classic games that work wonderfully indoors with appropriate toys and space.
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Indoor agility: Create a simple obstacle course with household items—chairs to weave through, cushions to jump over, blankets to tunnel under.
Mental Enrichment Activities
A tired mind equals a calm pet. Try these brain-engaging activities:
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Puzzle feeders and slow-feed bowls: Make mealtime work for their brain, not just their stomach.
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Snuffle mats: Hide kibble or treats in the fabric folds and let your pet sniff them out.
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Frozen treats: Freeze bone broth, wet food, or raw food in puzzle toys for extended engagement.
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Training sessions: Winter is perfect for teaching new tricks or reinforcing commands. Keep sessions short (5-10 minutes) and positive.
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Scent work: Hide treats around the house and encourage your pet to use their nose to find them.
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Window watching: Set up a cozy perch where your cat or dog can watch outdoor activity—birds, squirrels, and passing neighbors provide free entertainment.
Socialization Opportunities
Don't let winter isolation affect your pet's social skills. Arrange playdates with pet friends, visit pet-friendly stores, or consider dog walkers once or twice a week.
Remembering Our Furry Family Members
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As we approach Remembrance Day, many of us reflect not only on those who served our country but also on the loved ones we've lost. For pet parents, this includes the four-legged family members who've crossed the rainbow bridge.
Celebrating the Human-Animal Bond
The relationship between humans and animals is ancient, profound, and deeply meaningful. Our pets aren't "just animals"—they're confidants, companions, and family members who shape our daily lives and leave permanent paw prints on our hearts.
They teach us about unconditional love, living in the moment, and finding joy in simple things. They comfort us during difficult times, celebrate with us during happy ones, and ask for nothing more than our presence and care in return.
Honoring Pets We've Lost
If you're grieving a pet, know that your feelings are valid and important. The loss of a pet is a real loss, and the grief is real grief. There's no timeline for healing, and there's no "right" way to remember them.
Some ways to honor their memory:
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Create a photo album or memorial corner in your home
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Plant a tree or perennial garden in their memory
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Donate to an animal shelter or rescue in their name
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Write down your favorite memories and stories
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Allow yourself to talk about them and say their name
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Consider a memorial piece of jewelry or art
Gratitude for Current Companions
This month is also a beautiful time to appreciate the pets currently in our lives. Take a moment to really see them—the way they greet you at the door, the comfort of their presence, the personality quirks that make them uniquely them.
Give an extra belly rub, offer a special treat, spend an extra ten minutes playing their favorite game. These small moments of connection are what we'll remember most.
Visit Us at Creature Comfort Pet Emporium
We're here to help you navigate winter wellness for your pets. Whether you're feeding kibble, canned, raw, or a combination, we can help you adjust portions appropriately for your pet's individual needs. We carry quality supplements, enrichment toys, paw protection products, and everything else you need to keep your furry family members healthy and happy through the cold months.
Our knowledgeable team understands that every pet is unique, and we're always happy to discuss your specific concerns and questions. We believe in meeting you where you are in your pet parenting journey and supporting whatever feeding and care approach works best for your family.
Store Hours:
Tuesday–Friday: 10am–6pm
Saturday: 10am–5pm
Sunday: 12pm–4pm
Visit us in St. Jacobs, or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram @creaturecomfortpetemporium. Let's make this winter the healthiest, happiest one yet for your beloved companions—and take time to honour the memory of those who are no longer with us but will never be forgotten.
Winter is coming, but with preparation, love, and the right support, your pets will thrive through the cold months ahead. We're honored to be part of your pet's wellness journey.