Life With Old Dogs Podcast

Dawn Mimnaugh

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’t always polished or perfect. It’s muddy paws, medications, mobility issues, reusable diapers, special diets, grief, laughter, exhaustion, loyalty, and unconditional love — often all at the same time. I’m also a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist, and nutrition plays a major role in my care philosophy for senior dogs. I believe food can be a powerful tool in supporting comfort, mobility, digestion, energy, and overall quality of life as dogs age. A large part of my daily life involves preparing home-cooked meals, toppers, and supportive nutrition for the dogs in my care, using simple, practical approaches people can realistically incorporate into their everyday lives. Through blogs, podcasts, videos, courses, and storytelling, I share what I’ve learned from living alongside aging dogs and navigating the emotional and physical realities of senior dog care. My goal is simple: to help people give their older dogs the happiest, healthiest, safest, and most comfortable life possible. I believe senior dogs still deserve adventure.They still deserve joy.They still deserve dignity.And they still deserve to be deeply loved. When I’m not creating content for Life With Old Dogs, I’m caring for the residents of Woody’s Place, working behind the scenes on sanctuary life, and continuing to build a peaceful life surrounded by animals and nature here in Pennsylvania. Thank you for being here and for loving old dogs, too. — Dawn You can listen to the #Lifewitholddogs podcast athttps://www.wpsgss.org/lifewitholddogspodcast and on all podcast platforms. #LifeWithOldDogs media supports Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary.

  1. Oct 6

    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, including our beloved Champ. Over the years, those experiences have taught me just how important routine senior veterinary care really is. In this episode of the Life With Old Dogs Podcast, I’m talking about chronic kidney disease in aging dogs: what it is, why it can be so difficult to recognize early, the signs you should watch for, how veterinarians diagnose and monitor it, and what caring for a dog with kidney disease may look like. I’ll also share one of the biggest tips for improving your senior dog's longevity. Senior dogs can look perfectly healthy while changes happen internally. Routine physical exams, blood work, and urinalysis give you and your veterinarian a chance to establish your dog’s normal baseline and catch changes earlier. Chronic kidney disease cannot always be prevented, and permanent kidney damage generally cannot be reversed. But earlier detection may give us an opportunity to manage complications, slow progression, and give our dogs more good-quality time. And with an old dog, those extra ordinary days together can mean everything. Read the accompanying Life With Old Dogs article: Chronic Kidney Disease in Older German Shepherds https://www.lifewitholddogs.com/post/chronic-kidney-disease-in-senior-german-shepherds Important Note This podcast shares my personal experience caring for senior dogs and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Always discuss changes in your dog's health, diet, medications, or treatment with your veterinarian. Support the show LifeWithOldDogs.com https://www.instagram.com/wp_lifewitholddogs/ https://www.youtube.com/@lifewitholddogs https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewitholddogs Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary https://www.wpsgss.org https://www.facebook.com/WoodysPlaceSeniorGermanShepherdSanctuary We would LOVE it if you could leave a thumbs-up or comment! Please and thank you! You can support our podcast by going to http://www.patreon.com/LifeWithOldDogs Every little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

    Chronic Kidney Disease in Older Dogs: What I Wish Every Senior Dog Owner Knew
  2. Sep 16

    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 and caregiving techniques I use with incontinent dogs at Woody’s Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary: https://youtu.be/ybFmS_KZFyo This episode was inspired by responses to a question I asked on social media about the biggest concerns people face while caring for senior dogs. Incontinence was one of the most common answers, and it is something I regularly manage here at the sanctuary. Because incontinence can have several causes, including treatable medical conditions, always speak with your veterinarian when your dog begins having accidents or experiences a change in bathroom habits. Additional resources: Read Life With Old Dogs blog posts about senior dog incontinence: https://www.lifewitholddogs.com/search?q=incontinent&type=blogs See the reusable dog diapers, washable pads, and other preferred products I use at Woody’s Place: https://a.co/d/03NmPokD Please note: The preferred-products link is an Amazon affiliate link. Qualifying purchases may provide a small commission at no additional cost to you and help support the senior dogs at Woody’s Place. #SeniorDogCare #DogIncontinence #SeniorDogs #OldDogs #LifeWithOldDogs Support the show LifeWithOldDogs.com https://www.instagram.com/wp_lifewitholddogs/ https://www.youtube.com/@lifewitholddogs https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewitholddogs Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary https://www.wpsgss.org https://www.facebook.com/WoodysPlaceSeniorGermanShepherdSanctuary We would LOVE it if you could leave a thumbs-up or comment! Please and thank you! You can support our podcast by going to http://www.patreon.com/LifeWithOldDogs Every little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

    Senior Dog Incontinence: What Causes It and How to Manage It
  3. Aug 26

    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. I also talk about the planned expansion of Woody’s Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary, which is expected to begin this fall. We are still raising the funds needed to make that happen, and the Givebutter link here for those who wish to donate: https://givebutter.com/gvfYur There are some exciting things ahead, including the return of Canines in the Country in fall 2027. We are tentatively planning for the third week of September, right here at the farm. It will be a day for the dogs and the humans who love them, and we will need volunteers, vendors, and rescue organizations to help make it special. Finally, I'd like to introduce my new personal Substack, Life Between Dog Walks, where I write about relationships, family patterns, abandonment, rebuilding, getting older, changing direction, and figuring out who you are while caring for everyone else. You can check that out here: https://lifebetweendogwalks.substack.com/ Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join me for a long-overdue catch-up from Life With Old Dogs. Support the show LifeWithOldDogs.com https://www.instagram.com/wp_lifewitholddogs/ https://www.youtube.com/@lifewitholddogs https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewitholddogs Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary https://www.wpsgss.org https://www.facebook.com/WoodysPlaceSeniorGermanShepherdSanctuary We would LOVE it if you could leave a thumbs-up or comment! Please and thank you! You can support our podcast by going to http://www.patreon.com/LifeWithOldDogs Every little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

  4. Jul 14

    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 difference between an older dog’s essential needs and an ideal daily routine • The sanctuary responsibilities that remain non-negotiable • Why feeding, fresh water, medications, bathroom access, cleanliness, safety, and comfort always come first • How I adjust walks and activities when life gets busy • Simple ways to include family and visitors in your dog-care routine • Why older dogs do not have to participate in everything we do • Creating safe, comfortable spaces where dogs can relax while we enjoy time away • Letting go of caregiver guilt when routines temporarily change • Why flexibility can help prevent caregiver burnout • The importance of maintaining an identity and a life outside of caregiving • Reconnecting with your dog after a busy few days—even if it involves a car ride and a pup cup Caring deeply for an older dog does not mean every day has to follow a perfect schedule. Sometimes life happens. The routine changes. The walk is shorter. Your dog stays home in the air conditioning while you spend time with family. And that is okay. When their essential needs are met and they are safe, healthy, comfortable, and loved, allowing flexibility is not a failure in caregiving. It is part of creating a sustainable life—for you and for the older dogs who depend on you. Life With Old Dogs Helping older dogs live longer, healthier, happier lives—and helping the people who love them enjoy the journey. Support the show LifeWithOldDogs.com https://www.instagram.com/wp_lifewitholddogs/ https://www.youtube.com/@lifewitholddogs https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewitholddogs Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary https://www.wpsgss.org https://www.facebook.com/WoodysPlaceSeniorGermanShepherdSanctuary We would LOVE it if you could leave a thumbs-up or comment! Please and thank you! You can support our podcast by going to http://www.patreon.com/LifeWithOldDogs Every little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

  5. Jun 3

    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 aging dogs, the emotional impact those comments can have on devoted caregivers, and how to separate judgment from genuine concern. She also discusses what quality of life truly means, why mobility aids are not a death sentence, and how to respond when others question your decisions. Whether your dog is simply slowing down or requires extra support in their golden years, this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and practical ways to navigate one of the most challenging conversations senior dog owners face. Because old age is not a disease, and every dog deserves to be evaluated as an individual, not by a number on a calendar. In this episode:  Why do people often judge the care of senior dogs  The difference between aging and suffering  How these comments affect loving caregivers  What quality of life really looks like  Why wheelchairs and mobility aids can be life-enhancing  Respectful responses to criticism and unsolicited advice Life With Old Dogs is dedicated to helping you provide the best possible life for your older dog through compassionate, informed, and holistic care. Other podcast episodes you may want to hear: https://www.wpsgss.org/lifewitholddogspodcast/episode/778cb25c/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-say-goodbye-to-your-fur-friend https://www.wpsgss.org/lifewitholddogspodcast/episode/76dd2f69/when-should-i-say-goodbye-to-my-older-dog-three-markers-to-help-you-decide Support the show LifeWithOldDogs.com https://www.instagram.com/wp_lifewitholddogs/ https://www.youtube.com/@lifewitholddogs https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewitholddogs Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary https://www.wpsgss.org https://www.facebook.com/WoodysPlaceSeniorGermanShepherdSanctuary We would LOVE it if you could leave a thumbs-up or comment! Please and thank you! You can support our podcast by going to http://www.patreon.com/LifeWithOldDogs Every little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

    When People Think Your Old Dog Should Be Put Down: Navigating Judgment, Guilt, and Quality of Life

Trailer

About

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’t always polished or perfect. It’s muddy paws, medications, mobility issues, reusable diapers, special diets, grief, laughter, exhaustion, loyalty, and unconditional love — often all at the same time. I’m also a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist, and nutrition plays a major role in my care philosophy for senior dogs. I believe food can be a powerful tool in supporting comfort, mobility, digestion, energy, and overall quality of life as dogs age. A large part of my daily life involves preparing home-cooked meals, toppers, and supportive nutrition for the dogs in my care, using simple, practical approaches people can realistically incorporate into their everyday lives. Through blogs, podcasts, videos, courses, and storytelling, I share what I’ve learned from living alongside aging dogs and navigating the emotional and physical realities of senior dog care. My goal is simple: to help people give their older dogs the happiest, healthiest, safest, and most comfortable life possible. I believe senior dogs still deserve adventure.They still deserve joy.They still deserve dignity.And they still deserve to be deeply loved. When I’m not creating content for Life With Old Dogs, I’m caring for the residents of Woody’s Place, working behind the scenes on sanctuary life, and continuing to build a peaceful life surrounded by animals and nature here in Pennsylvania. Thank you for being here and for loving old dogs, too. — Dawn You can listen to the #Lifewitholddogs podcast athttps://www.wpsgss.org/lifewitholddogspodcast and on all podcast platforms. #LifeWithOldDogs media supports Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary.