Winter is all about comfort food. The cold weather makes most people want to curl up with something rich and delicious and ride out the storm. Its very important to eat your vegetables in winter because you are more prone to illness during the colder months. The Timbercreek team has a list of 10 ways to get your vegetables this winter.

Start With Soups

A hot bowl of soup can be incredibly comforting on a cold winter night. This basic vegetable soup recipe is easy to make. All you need is vegetable (or chicken) stock, lots of veggies and a little salt and pepper. You can use any vegetables you have on hand. Prefer broccoli instead of cauliflower? No problem. This recipe is so easy to follow, it’s hard to make a mistake.

Sneak Veggies Into Hearty Meals

A great way to get some extra veggies into your everyday life is to sneak them into a hearty meal. This Veggie Bolognese Pasta is satisfying and substantial. The meaty sauce is secretly full of veggies like carrots, cauliflower, zucchini, mushrooms and tomatoes (technically a fruit, but let’s count it here). We promise you won’t miss the meat.

Roast Them For A Sweet Treat

Roasting veggies brings out their delicious sweet flavour as their natural sugars caramelize. When you come in from out of the cold, hot roasted root veggies can be deeply satisfying on their own or as a side dish. Leftover roasted veggies taste delicious cold the next day.

Sip On Them In Smoothies

Green smoothies are a great way to get some extra veggies in. This Veggie Cocktail, is a healthy take on a Bloody Mary, complete with a classic celery stalk garnish. This version of the cocktail is packed with 2 cups of kale! That’s a lot of greens in a delicious package.

Hide Them In Pancakes

Having trouble getting your kids to eat their veggies? Hide some spinach in your next batch of pancakes! Hulk Pancakes are delicious, healthy and vibrantly green. Kids will love their fun name and bright colour, and won’t be able to detect their healthy secret. 

Embrace Stew

Hearty beef stew with veggies is perhaps the perfect winter meal. The stew’s flavour is so rich and meaty you’d never guess this recipe packs in so many vegetables. Make a big pot of it, keep it in your fridge, and heat up a bowl to warm you up whenever the craving strikes.

Turn them into pasta

Spiralized vegetables offer an amazing new way to eat your veggies. Zucchini Noodles are the most common and a great option if you are looking for grain-free pasta or a way to pack more vegetables into your diet. They are easy to make, all you need is a vegetable spiralizer or mandoline. Add your favourite sauce with even more veggies and you’re on your way to getting your five a day.

Turn Them Into Wings

If you love the taste of buffalo wings, but are trying to eat more vegetables, consider whipping up a batch of cauliflower wings. This video will walk you through the process of preparing your cauliflower and buffalo sauce. Serve them with some blue cheese dressing, carrots and celery sticks.

Bake With Them

Is there anything cozier than baking? Vegetables aren’t just for savoury recipes. This winter, bake a warm loaf of Zucchini Bread to share with friends and family. Grated zucchini keeps the sweet loaf moist and delicious. It’s basically a spice cake with the added benefits of vegetables!

We hope these ideas will help you sneak extra veggies into your meals this winter. To learn more about Timbercreek’s rental communities across Canada, please visit our website.

Let’s face it, winter in Canada can be rough! The cold, dark days of winter seem to last forever. During the winter months, it's easy to just want to curl up on the couch with a good book, and that’s fine, some of the time. But don’t let winter beat you! Winter may be the most important season to stay active. Keeping your workouts fresh and challenging is a great way to stay motivated. Timbercreek Communities knows how tough this time of year can be, and we’re on your side! Check out our list of 5 ways to avoid a winter workout rut.

Go for a Winter Run

In the dead of winter, you might not be able to control the weather, but you can control your reaction to it. It’s winter, it’s cold, keep going! We recommend working in an invigorating outdoor run (at 60% to 80% of your maximum effort) once or twice a week. Running in winter helps you burn more calories because of the combination of exercise and keeping your body warm. If you are looking for a challenge, running in snow is more difficult due to the resistance the snow creates for your body. The added intensity allows you to get more done in less time. Before you lace up your running shoes, check out these winter running tips to stay safe and motivated.

Treat Yourself to Some New Gear

Whether you plan to working out outdoors or not, some new workout gear may be a good idea to avoid a winter workout rut. If you are going to be outside, you’ll need to be warm and you’ll need footwear that works in the snow. If your are going to be indoors at the gym, or even working out at home at your Timbercreek Apartment, some new clothes can help keep you motivated. You’ll look better while working out and you’ll want to justify the new purchase. There's no need to over spend on the highest end gear, buy what you can afford -- just enough to remind you that you are worth the investment.

Set Goals

When you find yourself in the dead of winter, it can seem like there is no end in sight. Try to keep in mind that no matter how long the winter drags, Spring is just around the corner, and after springtime, comes summer. If you want to feel good and look good by the summer, you need to put in the work in the winter. Set goals for yourself. Whether you are looking to lose weight, get stronger or get faster (or all three), it’s important to set concrete goals that are MAT: (M)easureable, (A)chievable and (T)imed. Even if you don’t succeed in hitting your goals, having something to work toward and charting your progress will help motivate you through a long, cold winter.

Join A League or a Team

If you’re having trouble staying motivated during the dark, cold months, consider joining a league or team. Most cities across the country including Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Winnipeg, Calgary and Edmonton, offer organized leagues or pick up games throughout the year. It’s a great way to have some fun and meet some new people while you stay in shape.

Have Fun

Exercise can be fun! What's your favourite winter activity? Do it as much as you can. It can be downhill or cross country skiing, ice skating, running or anything that gets you out there. Simply getting outside during the winter months can have a huge beneficial impact on your health, fitness and mood. The lack of sunlight in the winter can cause serotonin levels (a mood enhancing chemical in the brain) to drop. That can have a negative effect on your mood as well as make you feel more tired, hungry and craving more comforting carbs. Exercise, especially outdoors, can help combat this condition.

We hope these 5 ways to avoid a winter workout rut help you power your way through winter. For more information on Timbercreek Rental Communities across Canada, please visit our website.

It’s a common misconception that your furry friend is immune to the cold because of his or her fur coat. Fido’s comfort and safety in winter weather conditions depends on a number of variables, from breed, to age, to general physical stamina and strength. Learn more about how to care for Fido this winter in today’s post from Timbercreek Communities.

Minimizing Outdoor Trips

You can’t keep your dog inside all winter, but when is it safe to go out? Smaller, shorter breeds that walk closer to the snow are usually less resilient in cold weather, along with elderly dogs. Some dog breeds, like huskies, have thicker snow-ready coats than others, like greyhounds. A general rule is that when temperatures fall below zero degrees celsius, no matter the dog, your furry friend is at risk for hypothermia. When the cold hits, check the temps to determine if it’s safe to go out. Consider minimizing your outdoor trips with dog-friendly indoor games and activities.

Paw Pads

Perhaps the biggest perk of paw pads is protection, not from the snow, but rather the salt and chemicals that melt the snow. Invest in a pair of affordable paw pads to keep your dogs paws safe. Love long winter hikes? The second benefit of paw pads is protection from rugged terrain that can potentially cut or damage your pet’s paws.

Grooming

You can’t protect your pup from everything, so grooming during the winter is important. Your local groomer will thoroughly clean any salt or mud that finds its way onto your pet throughout the season.

Do’s and Don’ts for Cold Weather

• Don’t leave your pet unattended outdoors when it’s extremely cold.
• Don’t feed your pet less just because it’s cold; Fido actually requires more energy from food to heat his or her body during the winter months.

• Do take note if your dog begins to shiver, bark or refuse to move, as these can be signs of overexposure to cold.
• Do get a cozy Fido Fleece for smaller pets, or pets with thinner coats.

Proper winter care for your pooch is key. Get started today with one of these tips from the dog lovers at Timbercreek Communities. For more information about pet-friendly Timbercreek Communities apartments, located in five provinces and over 27 cities nationwide, please visit our website.

Roommates have been there day in and day out, whether they wanted to be or not, and you couldn’t have gotten through it all without them. Make the holidays your time to say thank you, starting with one of these clever gifts!

Key holder

A key holder can be a useful gift for a roommate who’s always losing their keys. If you’re the one who seems to be losing things the most, give this communal gift as a promise that you’ll take more care.

Shave Subscription

An electric shaver is a lame Christmas gift. A Shave Subscription is an awesome Christmas gift. Give your roommate the gift that keeps on giving with high-quality blades sent each month, perfectly on cue.

Great Power Great Electricity Bill Crewneck Sweater

Does your roommate often forget to turn off the lights? Tell him or her how you really feel with this hilarious sweater.

Beard Bib

No more little hairs all over the bathroom sink, a Beard Bib guarantees cleanliness, plus hilarious photos.

TubShroom The Revolutionary Tub Drain Protector

Hair in the shower drain belongs high up on the list of Worst Roommate Pet Peeves. Who knew the solution to this endless struggle would be just $12.99 on Amazon?

Hair Tie Bracelet Cuff

A Hair Tie Bracelet Cuff may sound crazy, but it totally makes sense. Anyone with long hair can attest -- it’s annoying getting wrist dents because of tight hair ties. This bracelet keeps your hair tie stylishly handy without any uncomfortable indentations.  

Wireless Earbud Headphones

Tired of your roomie complaining about your loud music? Wireless Earbud Headphones have a tangle-resistant design and cords that hang comfortably behind the neck.   

Candle Lovers

If you’re looking for a gift that you and your roommate will enjoy, gift a candle this holiday season. Choose a seasonal scent like Frosted Cranberry or Marshmallow Fireside. This gift gives back, making your apartment smell like a cozy winter wonderland.

Say thanks to the gal or guy with one of these creative roomie gifts. For more information about Timbercreek Communities Apartments, simply visit our website

It may be hard to believe, but the holiday season is almost here. The holidays are all about getting together with friends and family, and enjoying good food. Hosting a holiday get together this season? You’ve got to try Timbercreek’s 10 favourite holiday dinners.

Turkey with all the trimmings

Turkey with all the trimmings is the iconic holiday meal in North America. If you’ve never tried to tackle it, it’s important to have a plan. Figure out what can be made ahead of time so you can prioritize and even ask for help from your guests. People like to be helpful, especially at this time of year. Encourage your guests to bring a vegetable side dish or a dessert to reheat. Taking a few minor obligations off your plate can make hosting the holiday dinner more enjoyable.

Glazed ham and Couscous

Not everyone likes turkey. For guests who aren’t fans of fowl, we suggest serving this equally impressive Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham with Couscous. This meal is a breeze to prepare compared to turkey and all the trimmings. It can be ready to serve in two to three hours.

Brisket and Latkes

Our favourite holiday dinner for Hanukkah is Braised Brisket and Latkes. It’s a deeply satisfying meal of meat and potatoes, done holiday style. Crispy, oniony, latkes pair perfectly with rich and savoury brisket. Brisket can be a tough cut of meat to master. If you’ve never prepared a brisket before, check out these tips on how to do it perfectly.

Christmas Roast Beef with Yorkshire Puddings

We love the classic British Christmas Dinner of Roast Beef with Yorkshire Puddings. You don’t have to hail from the UK to love enjoy tender and delicious roast beef with savoury pastries. Best of all, you get to drench everything in a rich brown gravy!

Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes

Pescatarians will love this Christmas tradition. On Christmas Eve (December 24th) Italian families serve fish instead of meat. There are no rules for preparing The Feast of the Seven Fishes, but the classic meal typically consists of a snack-sized seafood appetizer course, a seafood salad course, a meaty grilled seafood course, followed by a seafood pasta, a stew and vegetable course, and finally a fish-free dessert.

Beef Bourguignon with Parsley Potatoes

We love the rich textures and intense savoury flavours of Beef Bourguignon with Parsley Potatoes. Beef Bourguignon is a hearty classic French dish that involves a lot of umami loaded ingredients (wine, mushrooms and cognac, bacon etc.). This meal is elegant but substantial and can be ready to serve in less than two hours with about 45 minutes of hands on prep time.

Rack of Lamb with Roast Potatoes

Rack of Lamb with Roast Potatoes is a classic holiday meal that looks dramatic and tastes delicious. Don’t be intimidated by this one -- it only takes a few minutes to prepare (not including marinating time). The trick is to be restrained with the herbs. The flavour of the lamb is strong on it’s own so the seasonings should complement this flavour without overpowering it.

Roast Chicken with Wild Rice Stuffing

Roast Chicken with Wild Rice Stuffing has been a popular Christmas dinner since the 1990s. It offers a light and elegant alternative to turkey with bread stuffing. This recipe takes about three and a half hours total to prepare, but only about 45 minutes of that is hands-on prep time, so it's a perfect meal option if you have a lot on your plate.

Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower)

Spice things up this season with Aloo Gobi! This hearty spiced potato and cauliflower dish is popular across India and Pakistan and will impress your vegetarian guests.

Beef Wellington with Roasted Veggies

If you really want to wow the crowd this holiday season, serve Beef Wellington with Roasted Veggies. This classic show stopping meal is perfect for a special occasion like Christmas. If you’ve never tasted Beef Wellington, it is an incredible mix of textures. Prime cut filet mignon is wrapped in buttery puff pastry and baked -- the decadent result is unforgettable.

Happy Holidays from Timbercreek Communities. We hope you enjoyedi our 10 favourite holiday dinners! For information on Timbercreek Rental Communities across Canada, please visit our website.

The holidays are a busy and exciting time. What’s fun for some can be overwhelming for others. The abundant decorations and lights can be very distracting and enticing for your cat. From tipping over the tree in an attempt to climb to the summit, to sniffing and scratching toxic plants and decorations, there is much that you need to deter you curious cat from exploring this holiday season. Timbercreek Communities has some great tips to help you cat-proof your home for the holidays.

Hang your mistletoe and holly high (it can be poisonous)

Hanging mistletoe and holly can be a happy holiday tradition (and a great way to get some free kisses) but did you know that the mistletoe berries contain polysaccharides and alkaloids that can be poisonous to your pets? To keep this tradition a happy one, make sure that these plants are kept well out of your cat’s reach.

Use cat-safe tree decorations and avoid tinsel

You may have noticed that your cat loves your Christmas tree, maybe even more than you do. What cat wouldn’t be happy to have a tree arrive, indoors, and then to have that tree adorned with all sorts of hanging ornaments to bat around?  Knowing this, it’s important to cat-proof your tree. You may want to choose ornaments that are less shiny, less dangly and therefore, less attractive to your kitty. You can also make your own cat-friendly decorations for your tree. There are some decorations out there that simply are not conducive to keeping your cat safe that should be avoided. Tinsel can be a choking hazard and even cause intestinal blockages, as can dangly ribbons. Fake snow can be toxic, and of course, real candles should not go anywhere near your tree.

Keep orange peels under your tree to repel your cat

The smell of orange peels and citrus can be delightful during the holidays, but it’s not something cats enjoy. If you are having trouble keeping kitty from climbing the tree, placing some chopped orange peels under there may be enough to keep your cat at bay. Replace the peels about once a week to keep the citrus oil scent strong.

Mist citronella on plastic trees

A citronella solution may be just the solution you need to keep your cat away from your artificial tree. Since there is no pine smell from a plastic tree, the citronella scent will be a strong deterrent for your cat. It’s important to make your solution strong enough, so be sure to use a ratio of 1 part citronella oil to 4 parts water.

Avoid poinsettias

Poinsettias, with their festive red and green colour, are a popular plant to buy and give during the holidays. Many people mistakenly believe they are poisonous for pets. The truth is they are only mildly toxic, so if someone shows up with one as a gift, there is no need to panic, but you should keep them well out of reach of your cat. Even a mildly toxic effect can cause discomfort and distress for your pet for which there is no effective treatment. Keep the plant high up and away from things your cat can climb easily.

Timbercreek wishes you a happy holiday season! We hope these tips help you cat-proof your holiday decorations this year. For information on Timbercreek Communities near you, please visit our website.

Make a fashion statement at your next holiday party! Discover the hottest trends of the season in today’s post from the fashion and lifestyle experts at Timbercreek Communities.

Add a little sparkle

Sparkles just scream holiday. Make any outfit pop with a sequin piece (a top, or skirt, or jacket). Not comfortable wearing a sparkly piece of clothing? Accessories, such as a purse or headband, will do wonders for your look without being overwhelming.

Embrace the LBD

The Little Black Dress, affectionately known as the LBD, is truly timeless and the perfect go-to for your next holiday party. Add that sequined headband you found on Etsy and your outfit is complete.

Day-to-night leather

You’ll thank yourself for choosing leather as you rush from the office to your holiday party. Leather leggings are especially easy to dress down or dress up, depending on where you’re headed. Now all you need is a pair of high heeled shoes that you can comfortably run from one event to the next in.

Pretty in tweed

Tweed is never out of style, especially during the winter. If you’re looking for a way to incorporate it into this season’s wardrobe lineup, check out this adorable sparkled tweed coat, perfect for the holidays—and looking pretty.

Blazers and jeans

A business casual dress code can be the worst. What does it mean?! Before you demolish your closet looking for the perfect (not too formal, not too corporate) look, consider blazers and jeans. This pairing is always in style and an excellent option for men and women alike. Ladies, check out this warm and classy look complete with a camel blazer and seasonally-appropriate plaid scarf.

Killer suits with lace-up shoes

Men, this one’s for you: The ultimate way to look your best this holiday season is to find that killer suit that compliments your body. It might be easier than you think. GQ has created a breakdown of what you should wear depending on your height, weight and body structure. 

We hope these style tips help you look amazing at your holiday parties this season! If you’re on the hunt for an amazing apartment to match, start with Timbercreek Communities. Our rental communities are located in five provinces and over two dozen cities. For more information, visit our website today. 

With the holiday season just around the corner, you may find yourself running around to various parties, get-togethers and festive holiday gatherings. Rule # 1 don’t show up empty handed! Bringing something small to help your hostess entertain, or something thoughtful to show your appreciation for their hospitality, is always a good idea. Timbercreek Communities is here to help cross some items off your gift list with our Top 8 hostess gifts for this holiday season.

Homemade Baked Goods

Gifts that show that you put in a little time and effort always make an impression. Bringing some delicious homemade baked goods is a great way to show your appreciation for your host/hostess. It doesn’t have to be complicated, this recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookies takes only 20 minutes of prep time. Your host will love the crispy edges and chewy middles, and your gift can even be added to the dessert table if your host is short on treats.

Wine

Wine is a classic hostess gift option, but it can create some uncertainty on the part of the giver. If dinner is being served, your hostess may have already selected wines that will pair well with her entrees. If you’re surprising your hostess with wine, remember that it is a gift, and your hostess is under no obligation to open it right away. Learn more about wine present etiquette here. The bottom line is, if you are giving wine as a surprise gift, don’t stress about which wine to choose, simply choose something you think your host will enjoy. That being said, if you have been asked to bring wine, be sure to inquire with your hostess about the menu she plans to prepare before you buy. With that in mind, you can then ask your local wine store clerk for assistance in finding the perfect wine to compliment the meal.

Flowers/Holiday Plant

If you are showing up with flowers during the busy holiday season, you may want to avoid the gift wrapped bouquet and give some flowers in a vase (see last section below) instead. Your busy hostess will appreciate not needing to take the time to find a suitable container for your gift. If you want to avoid this situation entirely, a great option during the holidays is a potted poinsettia. They are classic, vibrant and bring a touch of holiday cheer. Best of all, no one expects to keep a poinsettia alive for the whole year, so there is no pressure on your hostess to take good care of it!

Simple serving ware

A thoughtful gift for your hostess this year is simple serving ware. Look for items like decorative cheese knives or salad serving utensils. Chances are your hostess can put them to good use right away!

Mini DIY terrarium

An impressive gift to show your hostess how much you appreciate them is a mini DIY terrarium. This gift idea shows that you took a little time out of your day to create something beautiful for them. They are also very easy to make. Choose an open or closed glass container, add a little gravel, moss, soil and some charcoal (to prevent mold) and some low maintenance plants like cacti or air plants. A terrarium is the perfect decorative gift that will last as long as your hostess wants it too.

Decorative cutting board/ Homemade Trivet

Giving your hostess something homemade and useful is a great idea, especially if they can use it right away! A DIY decorative cutting board or homemade trivet/potholder is perhaps the perfect combination of thoughtful and useful, and the fact that you took the time to make it yourself makes it all the better.

Stylish Apron

A gift that your hostess can open and use immediately is always a hit but don’t pressure her to use it right away. A stylish apron can come in handy to protect your hostess’ fancy party clothes. If you have basic sewing skills, this video will show how you can make your own half-apron in literally one minute!

Flowers and Vase

As we mentioned above, if you are bringing flowers as a gift for your hostess, especially during the hectic holiday season, it’s a good idea to include a vase as part of the gift. A vase will save your hostess the time and trouble it takes to find a suitable container to place your gift in. You can usually pick one up at the florist, easily repurpose a jar, or create your own DIY vase for that personal touch.

Happy Holidays from Timbercreek Communities! We hope these hostess gift ideas help to take some of the guess work out of what to bring to your next holiday gathering. For more information on Timbercreek Communities for rent across Canada, please visit our website.

Don’t hibernate until spring! There are some amazing winter events happening in Montreal, Toronto and Calgary that you won’t want to miss. Timbercreek Communities hopes these winter events to attend in 2016 get you out and about when the weather is less than inspiring.

Montreal

Montreal has an incredible lineup of winter events to enjoy that will leave the rest of the country green with envy. Start with the Montreal Christmas Market, happening December 2nd through 24th at Place Jacques-Cartier. Enjoy artisan food, browse one of a kid crafts and jewellery, and enjoy carols in a twinkle light studded winter wonderland. Luminothérapie is back from December 8th through January 29th. Featuring 13 giant illuminated zoetropes, visitors will be asked to activate the cylinders in order to make fairy tale-inspired images come to life. Music boxes at the centre of each zoetrope provide accompaniment for the giant animated drawings. Don’t miss this beautiful free interactive installation happening at Place des Festivals. 

Toronto

The Toronto Christmas Market invites guests to rediscover the magic of the holiday season. Considered one of the best Christmas markets in the world, get ready to enjoy delicious indulgences like poutine and smoked turkey legs, while you browse artisan crafts in a delightful Christmas village. The event is set for November 18th through December 22nd at the Distillery Historic District. If you’re looking for a holiday spectacle, the Cavalcade of Lights features the city’s official Christmas tree lighting ceremony, fireworks and live music performances. This year’s 50th anniversary celebration is happening at Nathan Phillips Square on November 26th. Stick around for a DJ skating party on the rink. Shopping gurus will want to attend the One of a Kind Show, a juried marketplace that has brought together artisan makers and buyers since 1975. Browse a huge selection of clothing, jewellery, arts and crafts, homeware and artisan food and drink. If you prefer food focused events, the 22nd annual Gourmet Wine and Food Expo runs November 17th through 20th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. This event feels more like a cocktail party than an expo as it features incredible food tastings, fine wine, beer and spirits, plus a chef stage for live demonstrations.

Calgary

Calgary continues to make a case for its growing arts and culture scene with winter events like CUFF, the Calgary Underground Film Festival. This season’s edition continues the organization’s quest to showcase films from all genres that defy convention. Catch a flick at a venue near you, November 17th through 20th. With 1.5 million lights, 200 displays, crackling fire pits and multiple family-friendly activity zones, you can’t really go wrong at ZOOLIGHTS. Taking place November 25th through January 8th, make plans today to experience the Calgary Zoo in all its wintertime splendor this season.

Across the nation, cities are gearing up for winter festivals and events like the one’s featured today by Timbercreek Communities. Make plans and make the most of the season ahead. For more information about affordable apartments in the heart of Montreal, Toronto, Calgary or another city near you, check out our website today. 

You’ve prepped your house and your wardrobe -- now it’s time to get your furry pal ready for winter. Transitioning from fall to winter can be tough for dogs, so here are 8 winter must haves for dogs from Timbercreek Communities are simply essential.

Dog sweater

If your little guy is prone to getting little shaky in the winter, a dog sweater is a great idea. You can find a cute dog sweater at pretty much any pet or department store, but why settle for ordinary when you can find something unique? For the stylish pup, check out Etsy’s online selection of handmade dog sweaters. 

Waterproof dog coat

Dog sweaters are perfect for indoor holiday parties or family gatherings, but when it comes to outdoor festivals and events, you’re going to want something more water resistant or your pet will quickly become cold and uncomfortable. Teckelklub is one of the best brands of dog coats in Canada, specializing in waterproof winter coats that hold warmth in.

Dog boots

Road salt, puddles, snow and ice are just a few of many great reasons to protect your pup’s paws this winter. The dog boots you choose should meet this basic criteria. Dog boots need to have excellent traction and water resistance in order to be worth the expense, let alone the hassle of actually putting them on your dog.  

Dog blankets

Give your best friend a cozy blanket to warm up with on cold winter nights. Dog blankets are a great buy this time of year and, if ordered online through Amazon, impressively affordable. 

Safety light

A safety light is easy to overlook, but this accessory can go a long way in guaranteeing your dog’s safety during cold, dark winter days and nights. We love the GoDoggie-GLOW light for its seven colours, five sizes and brilliant LED bulbs that also flash. Best of all, the safety collar can be conveniently recharged, saving you an inconvenient trip to the store for batteries.

Paw balm

When cold, dry weather leaves your poor pup’s nose and paws cracked, a little paw balm is in order. Try making your own this winter, starting with this Homemade Natural Dog Paw Balm recipe. 

Self-warming pet mat

If you love to spoil your pet, add this self-warming pet mat to your list of presents. The mat will soothe your pet’s aching muscles, relieving tension and restoring heat after a snowy day playing outdoors.

Pet carrier for icy days

If and when the weather truly gets ugly, don’t risk your pet’s safety. Keep a pet carrier in your closet or the back of your vehicle for when you need to transport your pet through ice and snow to your destination.

Help your pet thrive this winter by investing in a few must-haves for the season. For more information about dog-friendly Timbercreek Communities, please visit our website today.