Author: Deeanne Matz
I Loved You … if Only for a Moment
June 15, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
I think one of the most important services of love we offer at Old Dog Haven is to provide hospice care for dogs that are only with us a short time. We can do this because we have foster families who understand what their role is with the dog that can’t be with them…
She Knows You’re with Her
June 1, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
In the past three months I’ve had quite a few conversations with people who were unable to physically be with their dog when the dog died, and they feel guilty and even angry. If you’ve ever felt the same way I have a few thoughts that might be of help: I think it’s safe…
Sweet Lessons for an Uncertain Time
May 18, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
This week we welcome back guest blogger Amber Kizer—the eloquent chronicler of the adventures of Sweetie. You’ll especially love what Amber has to say because she speaks so beautifully about the lessons taught by an old dog that experienced love and happiness with a woman who was eager to learn what Sweetie had to teach…
GiveBIG for Bella Nina and all the ODH Dogs
May 4, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
Her name is Bella Nina. Yes, I’m talking about the poster dog for this year’s GiveBIG campaign. Bella Nina is one of more than 300 Old Dog Haven dogs you’ll be helping if you participate in GiveBIG on Tuesday May 5 AND Wednesday May 6. Here’s more about Bella Nina: Bella Nina came into…
Dog Programs for COVID -19
April 20, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
(This week we welcome guest blogger Joe Myers, Art Director of Old Dog Haven. He claims that he didn’t really write this, but we’ll give him credit anyhow because we’re sure he inspired the author!) by Murphy Myers/Moreschi (adopted through the Old Dog Haven website) We would like you to know…
Social Distancing and Coming Together
April 6, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
I’m sure the irony isn’t lost on you. How is it possible that people are coming together while practicing social distancing? Reaching out to others doesn’t have to be physical. Hopeful thoughts and acts of kindness find their way into the hearts of those who need positive inspiration in their lives. Think about the ripple…
Flower in Bloom, A Senior Dog’s Story
March 23, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
This week we welcome back guest blogger Emily Felty with a dog story that many of you will read with a smile because it sounds like your own experience. To remind you about Emily, she says this about herself: “I’m Emily! I’m an East Coast transplant with a West Coast heart and…
Sharing is Caring
March 9, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
As kids we’re taught that sharing is a good thing and that concept often follows us through adulthood because many people are very good at sharing, whether it’s time, money or anything else that’s “shareable.” Old Dog Haven is good at sharing too. If you look at our website (www.olddoghaven.org) or our Facebook or Instagram…
Who Loves Ya, Baby?
February 24, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
Why do dogs love people? Science tells us that the hormone oxytocin (more commonly called the “love hormone”) is released in both dogs and people when they have a positive interaction, and it cements and increases the bond. Also, research has shown that just the smell of a person they like will make a dog…
Calculating Candles on the Cake: New Research on How Our Dogs Age
February 10, 2020 Life Lessons from Old Dogs
By Emily Felty This week we welcome guest blogger Emily Felty who says this about herself: I’m Emily! I’m an East Coast transplant with a West Coast heart and a few furry rescues. I started volunteering with Old Dog Haven for probably a similar reason that brought you to this blog, a love for…
