Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary

06/25/2026

Amazon Prime Day is here, and every purchase made through our Amazon Wish List helps provide comfort, care, and dignity to the senior German Shepherds of Woody’s Place.

From food and supplements to cleaning supplies and everyday essentials, these items help us care for some of the most vulnerable dogs in our sanctuary.

If you're shopping Prime Day deals June 23–26, please consider adding an item from our wish list to your cart.

Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference for the old souls who call Woody’s Place home.

Thank you for helping us give displaced senior German Shepherds the love, comfort, and care they deserve.

https://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/1ZZKP18GTXFUH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_ws_B87RAbPEXBWZ6?dplnkId=c0202b37-b65d-4dbc-97e7-f716f2f9192c

06/24/2026

For so long, I believed my worth was found in what I could do for everyone else.
Now, in my fifth decade of life, I'm learning that I get to belong in my own life too.
If you've ever been the caretaker, the rescuer, or the one everyone depends on, this essay is for you.

Read the free essay: https://dawnmimnaugh.substack.com/.../i-am-learning-that...

PS. I have no intention of giving up on senior dog rescue. :)

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06/24/2026

Summer flies can be more than just an annoyance for our dogs.

German Shepherds are particularly vulnerable to fly strike because their upright ears leave the delicate edges exposed to biting flies. What may begin as a small scab or a little dried blood can quickly become painful, inflamed, and, if left untreated, much more serious.

In this week's Life With Old Dogs blog post, I'm discussing the signs of fly strike, why German Shepherds are especially susceptible, how to prevent it, and what to do if you notice damage to your dog's ears.

A few moments spent checking your dog's ears each day during fly season can make a tremendous difference.

Have you ever dealt with fly strike in your dog? Let me know in the comments.

Read more: https://wix.to/RxiwSX6

As a child, I watched my first German Shepherd, Maxine, suffer from severe fly strike after being left outdoors year-round. What began as small wounds on the tips of her ears eventually became bloody, painful sores that attracted maggots and ultimately claimed her life. In this article, I share Maxi...

06/23/2026

German Shepherds were bred to herd, and watching those instincts come alive never gets old.

This heavy-duty nylon herding ball has held up beautifully, unlike some of the felt-covered ones I've tried in the past.

Even 12-year-old Sashi gets in on the fun. Age doesn't take away instinct, joy, or the desire to play. I love watching the dogs do what they were born to do while getting exercise, mental stimulation, and having an absolute blast.

You can get one for your pup here >>
https://amzn.to/4uQKAzy

06/22/2026

At Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary, we embrace the profound wisdom of the Golden Rule: treating others as we wish to be treated. This guiding principle shapes our interactions with every dog that steps through our doors, embracing a philosophy rooted in respect, kindness, and compassion. By considering the unique needs and personalities of each senior German Shepherd, we foster an environment where they can feel valued and cherished rather than discarded or forgotten.

Imagine a world where animals are not merely companions but respected members of the family; this is the ethos that propels our sanctuary forward. Every wagging tail and gentle nuzzle reminds us that love is universal. Through enrichment activities tailored to their abilities and quiet moments allowing them to simply exist in peace, we strive to elevate their golden years—the time when they deserve indulgence most.

06/19/2026

This is a courtesy cross post. Remy IS NOT IN OUR CARE.

Remy is avaliable for adoption at the Hudson Valley SPCA in New Winsor, NY.

Give her a share and let's get tgis beautiful girl a loving forever home!

06/19/2026

Some of the deepest wounds we carry are the ones nobody can see.

For me, dogs have always been more than companions. They have been a source of comfort, stability, and healing during some of the most difficult periods of my life.

In my newest Walking With Old Dogs article (on my personal Substack), I share a deeply personal story about childhood trauma, the German Shepherd who helped me survive it, and why I believe dogs have an incredible ability to help regulate our nervous systems and bring us back to a place of peace.

If you've ever felt calmer simply sitting beside your dog, running your fingers through their fur, or taking a quiet walk together, this article is for you.

I'd love to hear from you:

Has a dog ever helped you through a difficult season of life?

Read the full article here: https://dawnmimnaugh.substack.com/p/how-dogs-help-regulate-our-nervous?r=6ywnzv

06/18/2026

One thing I've learned from living with and caring for older dogs is that their beds need attention as the dogs themselves.

Think about it. Many senior dogs spend a large part of their day resting. Their beds collect hair, dirt, dander, dust, moisture, and sometimes the occasional accident. Over time, all of that can create odors, irritate sensitive skin, and make what should be a comfortable resting place less than ideal.

That's why I try to stay on top of bed maintenance. A quick vacuuming, spot cleaning when needed, washing removable covers, making sure everything is completely dry, and reshaping the bed after washing can go a long way toward keeping your dog's sleeping area clean and comfortable.

Even repositioning the bed helps!

And for those of us caring for senior dogs with incontinence issues, I've found that placing a washable blanket over the bed and using reusable or disposable p*e pads can be a real lifesaver. It's much easier to wash a blanket or change a pad than it is to constantly wash the entire bed. (Ask me how I know.)

At the end of the day, a clean bed isn't just about cleanliness. It's about comfort. As our dogs age, the little things matter more. A soft, clean place to rest tired joints and aging bodies is one simple way we can help make their golden years a little more comfortable.

After all, if our older dogs spend so much of their lives taking care of us, the least we can do is make sure they have a clean, cozy place to lay their heads.

06/17/2026

🐾🌞Hot weather can be brutal for our senior German Shepherds, but with a little extra care, you can keep your best buddy cool, comfortable, and safe all summer long.

Check out our Top 5 Tips for Beating the Heat just for you, our dedicated subscribers!

Thank you for being part of the Woody’s Place family! 🐕‍🦺