Life With Old Dogs Podcast

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.

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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 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 guiding them when they can no longer hear you calling from across the house or yard.

Hearing loss does require more effort from us. But with patience, consistency, and a willingness to adjust, our older dogs can keep enjoying a comfortable, deeply connected life.

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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.

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.

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 sudden or worsening, speak with your veterinarian.

Follow Life With Old Dogs for more honest conversations, practical guidance, and support for every stage of life with an older dog.

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.

 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 of the very real caregiving routines many of us know all too well, including frequent back-end baths, keeping the coat trimmed for easier cleanup, making sure the rear is fully dry, using diapers and pee pads, and watching closely for signs of bladder infections or urinary tract infections, which can be more common in dogs dealing with urinary incontinence.

If you are caring for an old dog who is leaking urine, losing bowel control, or simply needing more support in this stage of life, this episode is for you.

Because old dogs still deserve comfort.
 They still deserve dignity.
 And they still deserve to be deeply loved through every stage.

To see a list of products we use for incontinent dogs, click on this link: https://www.amazon.com/shop/woodysplaceseniorgermanshepherdsanctuary?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_VKR76VTDB0PHRN6DED8D

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.

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 inconvenient — during divorce, moves, financial strain, or emotional upheaval — this episode speaks to a different standard.

This is an honest look at what it means to honor the responsibility you chose — even when your life is unraveling.

Old dogs don’t need you perfect.

They need you steady.

And steady is a decision.

Welcome back to Life With Old Dogs

This is to let the skeptics know, I'm not just talking the talk. I'm walking the walk with old dogs by my side.

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.