About Us | Woody's Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary

The Woody's Place Team

Dawn Mimnaugh - Founding President, Website/social media Administrator, & Primary Caretaker of the Sanctuary

During her childhood, Dawn formed a strong bond with her German Shepherd companion, Maxine. They would often be seen together in Maxine's dog box, playing and enjoying each other's company.

As an adult, Dawn welcomed a new furry friend into her life - a black German Shepherd named Levi Jane. Levi Jane quickly became the center of Dawn's world until the unfortunate day of her passing.

Dawn's involvement in dog rescue began when she volunteered for a German Shepherd rescue organization in Philadelphia from 2005 to 2011. In 2007, she took on the challenge of fostering a 10-year-old male German Shepherd named Woody, who had been surrendered to a shelter in New Jersey because his owner was deployed while serving in the military.

Recognizing Woody's unique qualities and the urgent need to rescue senior German Shepherds like him, Dawn decided to establish Woody’s Place Senior German Shepherd Sanctuary, Inc., leveraging her experience working with these loyal companions.

The sanctuary officially obtained non-profit status as a 501(c) (3) organization in March 2011.

When not dedicating her time to activities at Woody’s Place, Dawn can be found caring for her assortment of chickens, goats, indoor and outdoor cats; spending quality time with loved ones; engaging in outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking; immersing herself in nature; undertaking home improvement projects; and pursuing continuous education opportunities.

Dawn can be reached at DMimnaugh@wpsgss.org

Brooke Slater - Vice President, Social Media Administrator

Brooke grew up loving animals and adopting mixed-breed dogs, both giant and small.

After being medically retired from the Army, she is a Stay-at-home Mom and dog mom.

She loves taking her whole family on camping trips and exploring the outdoors.

Brittany Cleghorn - Secretary

Brittany is photographed here with her fur nephew, Rocky. They thoroughly enjoy one another's company and spend as much time together as possible.

Brittany grew up with many dogs, including German Shepherds, so she is comfortable being hands-on when she is at Woody's Place. She also helps with fundraising events, transport, and all the sanctuary's secretarial duties.

Brittany is currently an RN who specializes in wound care.

When Brittany is not helping with Woody's Place or working, she enjoys spending time with her son, Owen, and husband, Bill, hiking, kayaking, and reading.

Woody's Place relies on dedicated volunteers to support their mission of aiding homeless senior German Shepherds.