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 rescue animals from neglect, abuse, and trauma, which can lead to protective behavior and skepticism towards potential adopters. Moreover, rescuers' emotional investment in each animal's well-being fuels their fervent arguments about pet ownership responsibilities. Some rescuers' caution stems from previous instances of returned dogs due to unforeseen challenges or lack of commitment from adoptive families, making them wary of new owners. Despite causing frustration and misunderstanding with a potential adopter, their behavior is aimed at ensuring the best possible outcomes for the dogs they care for the animals they care for.All that being said, here are some tips for finding a reputable rescue organization to work with if you are looking to bring a new fur friend into your life and home.Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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 state and expand our sanctuary. While many other rescues have sadly shut down, we are determined to grow in order to support more senior German Shepherds in need. If you're curious about what's in store, be sure to check out this video for all the details!*EDIT * Hemangiosarcoma. I misspoken in the podcast. Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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 that unfold day in and day out in our extraordinary haven for senior German Shepherds in need.I will go through both the successes and challenges that people face when they choose to pursue this selfless journey. Shedding light on both the joys and struggles encountered along this path, My hope is to convey to you the hard work needed to keep an organization like an animal sanctuary or rescue running.This is more than just another episode – it's a heartwarming tribute to all those unsung heroes who tirelessly work towards giving voiceless creatures a second chance at life.So gather 'round for one last episode as I share my unique sanctuary story.Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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 be cherished until their last breaths. Unlike traditional dog sanctuaries, PSDS fills a crucial void by catering specifically to the unique requirements of elderly dogs. While they may not offer typical retiree activities like shuffleboard, they provide an array of amenities that make Pepper's a true luxury retreat for senior pups.Their commitment to personalized attention sets them apart from other sanctuaries. Each dog receives either small group or one-on-one care, depending on their preferences and needs. The dedicated team at PSDS is made up of professionally trained staff members and volunteers who go above and beyond to ensure that every resident feels safe, loved, and content throughout their stay. Here is where you can learn more about PSDS:https://psds.org/https://www.facebook.com/psdscolorado/https://www.instagram.com/peppers_senior_dog_sanctuary/Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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, and chickens and ducks mingle throughout.At Animale' sanctuary, these animals find solace from their troubled pasts or challenging circumstances they have endured. They understand that each resident has a unique story that has shaped them into who they are today. Some have been rescued from neglectful situations; others have faced abuse or abandonment.But there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes to make it all happen. Give a listen to this podcast to find out what it really takes for Deanna and her team to keep the sanctuary moving forward.Also, you can find Animale' Santuary here => => => https://www.animalesanctuary.com/https://www.facebook.com/Animalesanctuarytn/https://www.instagram.com/animale_sanctuary/Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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 access to physically and mentally stimulating activities suited to their age and abilities.Their vision is to enhance the lives of senior dogs by committing to provide them with a forever home in our sanctuary, a long-term foster home, or in an adoptive home, and to change the way people value and view older dogs.In this episode, Doreen pulls back the curtain to give us a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of their sanctuary life and what she would tell someone who was interested in starting their own animal sanctuary.You can find out more about Marty's Place Senior Dog Sanctuary here:https://martysplace.org/https://www.facebook.com/martysplaceseniordogsanctuary/https://www.instagram.com/martysplaceseniordogsanctuary/Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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. From handling emergencies in the middle of the night to managing volunteers, her days are anything but predictable.Running a dog rescue requires a deep understanding and love for animals, but it also demands business acumen and organizational skills. Megan spends countless hours coordinating fundraisers, reaching out to potential adopters, and ensuring that each dog receives proper veterinary care and one-on-one time. The emotional toll of dog rescue is undeniable - she has seen neglected and abused dogs come through her doors with heartbreaking stories, but she also knows the dogs she serves are well worth it. She is their advocate, and she fights for their chance at a better life.To learn more about German Shepherd Rescue of the Finger Lakes and all the great work they do, and to see their adoptable dogs, visit: https://gsrfingerlakes.org/They are also on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.GSRFingerLakes.orgInstagram: @germanshepherdrescuefingerlakeThe German Shepherd Rescue of the Finger Lakes is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming German Shepherds. Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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 it only makes the team more determined. Every small success is a step towards healing and shows that love can overcome even the worst pasts. But there is also sadness because there are not enough resources or space to help every animal. This is a heartbreaking reality for those who want to save them all but can't. Working at an animal sanctuary or rescue takes a lot of strength to heal both bodies and hearts and to keep going, but it's not for the faint of heart or those who can't go the distance.In this #lifewitholddogs podcast season, I had the privilege to speak with several different, yet all amazing women who started an animal sanctuary/rescue, and they were gracious enough to share their stories about how they got started, what a typical day looks like, the highs and lows of sanctuary/rescue life, how the hand the stress, and what they would tell someone who expressed an interest in starting a sanctuary or rescue.Support the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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 dog's digestive system. When you make your own dog treats with wholesome ingredients such as pumpkin or sweet potatoes, they offer antioxidants and vitamins that support joint health and boost immunity.Another benefit of homemade dog treats using real whole foods is that they are cost-effective, especially when you have several large dogs.Here are a few easy-to-make homemade dog treat recipes for you to try.Easy-to-Make Treats for Your Furry FriendIngredients:2 ripe bananas½  cup unsweetened applesauce½ cup peanut butter (NO XYLITOL) 2 cups rolled oatsInstructions:1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.2. Mash the bananas in a mixing bowl.3. Add the applesauce and peanut butter and mix well.4. Stir in the rolled oats until well combined.5. Grease a baking sheet or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.6. Scoop out small portions of the mixture and form into balls, then place them on the baking sheet.7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until lightly browned and firm to touch.8. Let cool completely before serving to your furry friend.****************************************************************Ingredients:-1/2 cup peanut butter- 1 banana- 1 egg- 1/4 cup coconut flourInstructions:1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.2. In a mixing bowl, mash the banana with a fork.3. Add in the peanut butter and egg, and mix well.4. Stir in the coconut flour until fully combined.5. Grease a mini muffin tin or line with paper cups.6. Spoon the mixture into each muffin cup, filling about ¾ full.7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.8. Allow to cool before serving to your furry friend!*****************************************************************Ingredients:-1 pound lean ground beef or chicken- 1 cup rolled oats- 1 eggInstructions:1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.2. Mix the ground meat, rolled oats, and egg in a bowl until well combined.3. Form small balls or patties with the mixture and place theSupport the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.

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 an optimum level?By preparing your dog's meals at home, you have complete control over what goes into their food bowl.One of the biggest benefits of home cooking for older dogs is improved nutrition. Commercial dog foods are often made with low-quality ingredients that do not provide the right balance of nutrients needed by dogs to thrive. By home cooking for your older dog, you can choose high-quality meats, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats that are rich in essential vitamins and minerals.And don't forget, by making your older dog's meals at home, you offer them a great deal of variety in the food they eat, which they enjoy eating just as much as we do.Want to watch this podcast? Click on the link =>   https://youtu.be/xqFQ1Xqv_nUSupport the showYou can find Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary online at:www.wpsgss.orghttps://www.facebook.com/woodysplacesgsshttps://www.instagram.com/wpsgss/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Tb1hKnOWEamQstkqAxEygWe 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/LifeWithOldDogsEvery little bit helps, and your support is what keeps the #Lifewitholddogs podcast going.