Life With Old Dogs Podcast
Hi, I’m Dawn.I’m the creator of Life With Old Dogs and the founder of Woody’s Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary.For years, my life has revolved around caring for aging dogs — especially senior German Shepherds who needed safety, stability, compassion, and a place to simply grow old in peace.What started as a deep love for older dogs eventually became something much bigger.Life With Old Dogs was created as a space to share the real-life experiences, lessons, heartbreaks, humor, and meaningful moments that come with loving and caring for senior dogs.Because life with old dogs isn...
Your Senior Dog Can't Stand. What Happens Next?
Your Senior Dog Suddenly Can't Stand. Is It a Stroke? Understanding Vestibular Syndrome
What would you do if your senior dog woke up one morning unable to stand, stumbling, falling over, or holding their head at a strange angle? It's terrifying to witness, and your first thought might be that they've had a stroke or something even worse.
But what if it's something they can recover from?
In this week's Life With Old Dogs podcast, we're talking about vestibular syndrome, a condition we've experienced firsthand with two residents...
My Senior Dog Isn't Eating. Now What?
My Senior Dog Isn't Eating. Now What?
Your senior dog used to love mealtime. Now they're turning away from their food, eating less, or refusing meals altogether.
What's going on?
When an older dog loses interest in eating, it's easy to assume they're just getting older or becoming picky. But sometimes, there's much more to the story.
In this episode of Life With Old Dogs, we're talking about one of the biggest concerns senior dog parents face: declining appetite.
Drawing on years of hands-on experience caring for a...
Chronic Kidney Disease in Older Dogs: What I Wish Every Senior Dog Owner Knew
The signs can be subtle, the disease can progress quietly, and early detection can make a tremendous difference. Here’s what I’ve learned caring for senior dogs with kidney disease at Woody’s Place.
Chronic kidney disease is one of those conditions every person who loves an old dog should know a little about because, by the time the signs become obvious, significant kidney function may already be lost.
I have personally cared for numerous senior dogs with chronic kidney disease here at Woody’s Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary, includin...
Helping Your Senior Dog Navigate Hearing Loss
When an older dog begins losing their hearing, we have to learn a new way to communicate with them.
In this episode of Life With Old Dogs, I’m talking about the signs of hearing loss and the practical changes we can make to help our dogs feel safe, confident, and connected. I’ll share what we’ve learned from caring for hearing-impaired dogs at Woody’s Place, including my recent observations about Maggie.
We’ll talk about using visual cues, getting into your dog’s line of sight, preventing them from becoming startled, and safely guidi...
Senior Dog Incontinence: What Causes It and How to Manage It
Caring for an incontinent senior dog can feel exhausting, frustrating, and overwhelming, but the right routine and supplies can make life much easier for both you and your dog.
In this episode of Life With Old Dogs, I discuss some of the possible reasons older dogs become incontinent and share practical tips for managing accidents, protecting your home, and keeping your dog clean, dry, comfortable, and confident.
For the most helpful experience, watch the video version on the Life With Old Dogs YouTube channel. I provide demonstrations so you can see some of the products...
When Your Senior Dog Struggles to Get Up: Simple Ways to Help
Recently, I asked our followers to share their biggest concerns about caring for their senior dogs. Over the next few episodes, I’ll be addressing those concerns one topic at a time.
This week, we’re talking about what to do when an older dog begins struggling to get up. I share practical ways to assist your dog safely, make movement around the home easier, and help them maintain as much comfort and independence as possible.
Difficulty standing can be related to aging, arthritis, weakness, pain, or an underlying medical condition. If the change is sudd...
Back on Track: Big Updates from Life With Old Dogs
It's been a while, so this episode is all about catching up and sharing what's been happening here at the farm.
The house is finally about 98 percent complete, and for the first time in a long time, I feel like I am getting back on track. I share updates on Sashi, Maggie, Honey, our nine sanctuary cats, and life with my personal German Shepherd.
The Shepherd Shoppe will also reopen soon, and I am genuinely looking forward to returning to some of the things that had to be put on hold during the build.
...
When Real Life Interrupts the Routine: Caring for Your Older Dogs Without Losing Yourself
What happens when unexpected company arrives, plans change, and your normal dog-care routine gets turned upside down?
This past weekend, I had unexpected family company for three days. But with sanctuary and farm responsibilities taking approximately six hours every day—not to mention finishing my house and preparing for the upcoming Woody’s Place renovation—the daily responsibilities did not simply disappear.
In this episode of Life With Old Dogs, I share how I temporarily simplify the sanctuary routine while ensuring every resident’s essential needs are met.
I discuss:
• The...
When People Think Your Old Dog Should Be Put Down: Navigating Judgment, Guilt, and Quality of Life
Have you ever been told you're keeping your old dog alive too long?
If you share life with a senior dog, chances are you've encountered unsolicited opinions from friends, family members, strangers, or even people on social media. They see a gray muzzle, a slower gait, arthritis, or a mobility device, and immediately assume your dog is suffering.
But is old age really the same as a poor quality of life?
In this episode of Life With Old Dogs, Dawn explores why people feel compelled to comment on the care of...
I didn’t realize how much living closely with older large dogs would teach me… until I had no choice.
Living in a small space with senior dogs changes everything—your routine, your environment, and the way you care for them day in and day out.
In this episode of Life With Old Dogs, I’m sharing some of the most meaningful lessons I’ve learned through this experience. Not from a textbook—but from real life, lived closely alongside dogs who depend on me.
This isn’t about doing everything perfectly.
It’s about learning what truly matters… and showing up for them in a way that honors their comfort, their safety, and their dignity.<...
When Old Dogs Become Incontinent: Real Life Care and Compassion
In this Life With Old Dogs episode, we’re talking openly and honestly about something so many senior dog families deal with, but few people really discuss: urinary and fecal incontinence in older dogs.
I’m covering why incontinence happens, what can cause it, how it can affect your dog’s comfort and dignity, and what daily life really looks like when you’re caring for an incontinent senior dog. This is not just about accidents. It is about hygiene, skin care, infection prevention, mobility, patience, and compassion.
I’ll also share some...
When Your Life Falls Apart But the Dogs Still Need You: Commitment in the Hard Lessons
Last year, Life With Old Dogs went quiet.
Not because the mission changed, but because my life did.
In this deeply personal return episode, I share what it was like to navigate divorce, move into a fifth-wheel RV on my newly purchased Pennsylvania farm, rebuild my life from the ground up, and continue caring for senior dogs and homeless cats who still needed me.
Incontinence. Medications. Arthritic bodies. And not one of them was surrendered, displaced, or treated as disposable.
In a culture where animals are often relinquished when life becomes...
2024 Recap Solo Episode
I finally took the time to record the 2024 recap solo episode for the Life With Old Dogs podcast.
In this special episode, I dive into all the heartfelt moments and significant events that unfolded at Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary over the past year.
Listeners will hear about the beloved residents we had to say goodbye to, sharing their stories and the impact they left on our hearts. Losing a furry friend is always tough, but their memories will forever be cherished.
On a brighter note, I also introduce the new residents w...
Rita Hogan | The Canine Herbalist | The Herbal Dog
Rita Hogan is a dedicated clinical canine herbalist specializing in the health and well-being of dogs and their human companions. Her holistic practice integrates a variety of natural remedies, including flower essences, herbs, mushrooms, essential oils, and phytoembryonic therapy. By combining these elements with tailored dietary plans and energetic assessments, Rita creates comprehensive wellness strategies for dogs.
In addition to her hands-on consulting services, Rita offers an online teaching platform that provides valuable resources for pet owners interested in holistic care. She aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their pets' health.
Rita...
The Role of Physical Therapy for Senior Dogs with Dr. Courtney White
This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Courtney White DPT, CCRT of Oklahoma K9 PT
Dr. Courtney White, DPT, CCRT, is the dedicated force behind Oklahoma K9 PT Canine Therapy and Wellness. Her passion lies in enhancing the lives of senior dogs by alleviating pain and improving mobility.
Specializing in geriatric canine care, Dr. Courtney creates individualized treatment plans tailored to meet each dog's unique needs. By focusing on optimal function and independence, her goal is to help your beloved pet enjoy a longer, more active life.
And...
Top Care Products for Dogs Facing Degenerative Myelopathy and Other Mobility Issues
I am pleased to present a carefully selected collection of high-quality care products that I have found beneficial for dogs suffering from Degenerative Myelopathy and various mobility issues at Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary.
This compilation will help you identify which items are effective for your beloved pet and which may not be ideal! Quality care products for dogs facing Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) and other mobility challenges are vital resources that can greatly improve their well-being.
These items are crafted not only to offer support but also to foster independence, enabling dogs to move...
In Episode of the #LifeWithOldDogs Podcast, I Talk With Blake Dube' Inventor of Pawprint Oxygen
This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Blake Dube', the Founder and CEO of Aeronics, Inc., and the inventor of Pawprint Oxygen, the world's first rescue oxygen supply for pets.
Pawprint Pet Oxygen provides veterinarians and pet owners with the ability to deliver critical oxygen to pets in various circumstances. Whether you're addressing respiratory issues at home, transporting your pet to an emergency clinic, or offering prolonged oxygen therapy at home, Pawprint Pet Oxygen ensures your pet can breathe more comfortably.
So, if you own a pet that may require a rescue oxygen...
Interview With Dog Parent Coach and Author Angie Winters
For dog parenting coach Angie Winters, who has worked with and rehabilitated over 1,000 dogs, the answer is clear:
Training does not work for family dogs.
In her new book Don’t Train Your Dog: A Pet Parenting Guide to Teaching Good Behavior, Calming Fear, and Raising Happy Dogs, Winters—whose record for fixing dogs who were deemed unfixable by experts is unparalleled—explains that training simply cannot teach dogs the skills needed for modern family life. Moreover, it causes most of the behavioral issues to develop in the first place. Its failure causes dogs to...
Final Episode of Season 9 - Sanctuary Updates
As the curtains closed on Season 8 of the #LifeWithOldDogs podcast, listeners eagerly awaited the next chapter. However, the anticipated Season 9 took an unexpected turn as only a handful of episodes made it to production.
Amidst the chaos and unpredictability that life often throws our way, I faced challenges that disrupted my plans and tested my resilience.
Despite the setbacks, I made it through this turbulent season.
Listeners can tune into this special episode to uncover what transpired behind the scenes and gain updates on all the residents here at Woody's Place Senior German S...
Smoke Signals: Why Secondhand Smoke Poses Risks for Older Dogs
In the cozy corners of our homes, where wagging tails and loyal companionship abound, secondhand smoke lingers as an unseen threat to our faithful canine friends. As some puff away on cigarettes and exhale plumes of toxic fumes, the innocent noses of our older dogs are unknowingly subjected to a barrage of harmful chemicals. The alarming reality is that while we may be aware of the dangers posed by secondhand smoke to human health, the risks it poses for our aging furry companions often go unnoticed.
Imagine this: your beloved senior dog snuggled at your feet as...
The Inspiring Mission of a New Dog Rescue Organization, I'll Hold You Till Forever.
On this week's episode of #LifeWithOldDogs podcast, Andrea Romeo, the founder of I'll Hold You Till Forever, an animal rescue located in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, shares her unwavering dedication to providing a safe haven for homeless dogs in need. In a landscape where many rescues struggle to survive, Andrea's passion and commitment bring new life into the mission of saving our furry companions. With a 501 c3 nonprofit status now in place, they strive to be a beacon of hope amidst the challenges faced by stray and abandoned dogs.
Yes, you will hear two animal rescue...
Dog Aging Project
In this podcast episode, we speak with Harmony Diers, the communications team manager of The Dog Aging Project.
The Dog Aging Project is a study of healthy aging in companion dogs led by scientists and veterinarians at the University of Washington and Texas A&M University. This team is joined by partners at multiple Universities and private veterinary practices.
The Project is funded by the National Institute on Aging (a part of the National Institutes of Health) and private donors. This multi-institution research project centers on two fundamental goals: understanding how genes, lifestyle, and...
Unleash the Power: WINPRO's Plasma-Powered Products are Changing Canine Health.
In this #lifewitholddogs podcast, we chat with Winpro Pet President Tim Mitchum.
Tim helps us discover how WINPRO PET is revolutionizing canine health with its innovative line of plasma-powered products designed specifically for dogs.
Learn why dogs are the ideal candidates for these protein-rich supplements due to their active lifestyles and exposure to various stressors. And uncover the connection between stress, inflammation, and overall well-being in dogs.
Be sure to listen to the podcast to see how WINPRO Pet can help your furry friend thrive.
Don't miss out on this important...
Navigating The Ups and Downs of Dog Rescue and How to find A Reputable Organization
Finding a reputable rescue is paramount when navigating the ups and downs of animal adoption.
A trustworthy rescue organization will have thorough screening processes, including a home check to ensure the animals are placed in suitable homes.
While it may seem lengthy and challenging, understanding the reasoning behind these processes is crucial. It allows the rescue to gather vital information about potential adopters, ensuring a successful match between the animal and the new owner.
Additionally, it's important to acknowledge that many dog rescuers have seen the worst of humanity, often having to...
#LifeWithOldDogs 2023 recap video and our plans for 2024
It's been a long time since our last lifewitholddogs podcast episode, so we thought it would be a great idea to look back on 2023 and share our plans for 2024.
The past year has been quite a journey! We had to bid farewell to four of our beloved residents, including two who had been with us for a long time. We faced the challenge of having very few volunteers, but we also welcomed one new resident and two adorable puppies into our sanctuary.
On top of all that, we made the decision to relocate to another st...
Wrap up of Season 8 Behind the Scenes of Animal Sanctuary/rescue
Throughout this season, we brought you an authentic glimpse into the reality of operating an animal sanctuary or rescue as we uncovered a multitude of heartfelt stories. From touching anecdotes that chronicle the humble beginnings of various sanctuaries and rescues to enlightening accounts of their daily operations, this captivating season has truly left no stone unturned.
As we draw to the end of season 8, it's time to share my own personal narrative within this remarkable realm. Step into my shoes and witness firsthand what it takes to run an animal sanctuary. Discover the intricate tapestry of responsibilities...
Behind the Scenes with Justin Klemer of Pepper's Senior Dog Sanctuary
This week, we had the pleasure of speaking with Justin Klemer, Co-founder of Pepper's Senior Dog Sanctuary in Littleton, Colorado.
Running a dog sanctuary requires more than just fulfilling basic needs. Justin knows this all too well. His experience at the sanctuary has taught him the intricate details and immense responsibility that come with it, and he shares his insight with us.
Pepper's Senior Dog Sanctuary (PSDS) is a haven of love and care exclusively designed for senior dogs in need. At their veterinarian-supervised sanctuary, precious older dogs find their forever home where they will...
Behind the Scenes of Animal Sanctuary/Rescue with Deanna Sackett of Animale' Sanctuary
This episode, we welcome back Deanna Sackett, the driving force behind Animale' Sanctuary, a 501 c3 nonprofit organization located in Ten Mile, Tennessee.
Deanna and her team at Animale' Sanctuary are driven by a deep love and unwavering commitment to providing top-notch, lifelong care for animals in need. Their journey began with the simple belief that all creatures deserve compassion, respect, and a safe haven to call home. With every step they take, they strive to create a sanctuary where horses gallop freely through open pastures, goats playfully nibble on lush grass, pigs joyfully wallow in mud puddles...
Behind the Scenes of Marty's Place Senior Dog Sanctuary with Doreen Jakubcak
Doreen Jakubcak is the Founding President and driving force of Marty’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of senior dogs and ensuring that older dogs whose owners can no longer care for them will have a loving home for life.
At Marty’s Place, located in Upper Freehold Township, NJ, senior dogs – 7 years of age or older – receive physical comfort, emotional care, and enrichment in a safe, loving, and protected environment. Each dog has ample living space, human and canine companionship, consistent medical and dental care, and acce...
Behind the Scenes of an Animal Sanctuary/Rescue With German Shepherd Rescue of the Finger Lakes
Imagine a place where wagging tails and wet noses fill the yard—a dog rescue dedicated to rescuing German Shepherds in need. In this episode of the #lifewitholddogs podcast, we step into the world of the German Shepherd Rescue of the Finger Lakes for an inside look at what it truly means to run their dog rescue organization.
Being the president of a dog rescue organization is not for the faint of heart, and Megan Spaulding, the Founding President of the German Shepherd Rescue of the Finger Lakes, knows this all too well. Fro...
Introduction to Behind the Scenes of an Animal Sanctuary: Tales of Love, Dedication, and Heartache
Behind the scenes of an animal sanctuary or rescue, there is a lot of love, dedication, and sadness, and the people involved work hard to provide a safe place for animals in need. These dedicated folks work day and night to make sure every animal gets the care it deserves.
Some animals come to the sanctuary or rescue with terrible injuries caused by humans, and the dedicated folks at the sanctuary or rescue give all they have to earn their trust and help them heal. It can be tough to see the scars these animals carry, but i...
Senior Snackers: The Health Benefits of Homemade Dog Treats
As dogs age, their dietary needs change, just like humans. Feeding them with nutritious foods is essential for their overall health and well-being. Homemade dog treats using real whole foods offer several benefits for senior dogs. These treats are easy to make, and you can control the ingredients used in them.
One of the primary benefits of homemade dog treats made up of real whole foods is that they provide a high nutritional value as compared to commercial treats. Often, store-bought dog treats contain fillers, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that can be harmful to an older...
From Kitchen to Bowl: Why Home Cooking is Best for Your Older Dog & How to Do it Correctly
Home cooking for dogs is a growing trend among dog parents who want to ensure their older fur friends are getting the best possible nutrition.
While commercial dog food can be convenient and cost-effective, it is often loaded with preservatives, additives, and fillers that may not be good for your dog's health in the long run.
When a dog gets sick, most medical professionals will suggest a human-grade, whole-food diet.
Well, why are we waiting until our dogs get sick to give them what they really need for their bodies to run at...
Kibble with a Kick: Adding Whole Foods to Your Older Dog's Diet
If you are a dog parent, you want to make sure that your furry friend is healthy and happy. One way to achieve this is by feeding your dog real food alongside their kibble.
Trust me; I get it. Sometimes it's hard to cook a decent meal for ourselves, let alone our dog, but cooking for your dog is not as hard as it seems. In fact, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your pup.
Firstly, cooking real food for your dog allows you to control what goes into...
Dog Food Label Decoding Spotting The Good From The Bad
As a dog owner, you want the best for your furry friend. One of the most important aspects of their health is their diet, and deciphering dog food labels can be difficult. However, knowing what to look for on a label can help you spot the good from the bad.
Firstly, pay attention to the ingredients list. The first few ingredients should be high-quality protein sources such as chicken or beef. Avoid foods that list generic terms like "meal" or "by-product," as they could come from any source, including low-quality sources like diseased animals or even roadkill.<...
Pros and Cons of Dog Food Variations
When it comes to choosing the right food for your dog, there are many different variations available on the market today.
Kibble, canned foods, freeze-dried, dehydrated, commercial brand raw/raw, and home-cooked diets all come with their own set of pros and cons.
For example, kibble is the most popular form of dog food and often the most affordable. The pros of kibble include convenience, ease of storage, and wide availability. Kibble also generally comes in various flavors, which can make it appealing to picky eaters. On the downside, because it is highly processed, kibble ma...
From Kibbles & Bits to Nutritious Meals: Commercial Brand Dog Food, Better Alternatives and Caring for Your Dog As They Age
As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. Just like humans, older dogs require a balanced diet that supports their aging bodies.
Proper nutrition can help older dogs maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and diabetes, improve digestion and cognitive function, and even increase energy levels.
And while commercial dog food can be a convenient option, and I’m not saying there isn’t a place for it, dog parents are more and more interested in preparing home-cooked dog food for their older dogs main...
Life After Pet Loss: Understanding Grief Process for Healing.
Losing a pet can be one of the most difficult experiences a person can go through. The grief associated with pet loss can take many forms, from sadness to guilt and even anger. While the grieving process is never easy, understanding the stages of pet loss grief can be an important first step in navigating these emotions and beginning to heal. By being aware of the common stages of pet loss grief, you can build better coping strategies for yourself or others who may be going through this experience.
The stages of pet loss grief are typically...
Understanding What to Expect During Pet Euthanasia
Saying goodbye to your beloved fur friend is one of the most difficult tasks a dog owner has to face. Euthanasia is an emotional and heartbreaking process, but it can also be a peaceful and dignified way to honor your dog's life. Understanding what to expect during euthanasia can help make this transition easier for both you and your fur friend.
This podcast will provide an overview of the process so that you can better prepare yourself and your dog for this difficult experience.
One obstacle you may experience is anticipatory grief. To learn more...
When Should I Say Goodbye to My Older Dog? Three Markers to Help You Decide
Bidding farewell to an aging dog we cherish is always a challenging task, and determining when it's time to make that heart-wrenching decision can be quite daunting.
As a dog's health deteriorates, pet owners must discern whether it's the right moment to assist their furry companion in crossing the rainbow bridge, but this judgment is not always straightforward.
In the accompanying video and lifewitholddogs podcast, I discuss three indicators that we utilize at Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary to help us determine when it's appropriate for us to bid our final farewells.
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