Julie Shaw
Paws for Patrick is proud to introduce you to Julie Cohen Shaw, who serves on the Board of Directors as Co-Chair of our Therapy Dog Team with her dogs Lucy and Benji.
“Paws for Patrick encompasses everything I am passionate about...volunteering with my own therapy dogs in various settings such as schools and mental health organizations, helping families find and adopt emotional support animals, and working to help break the stigma of mental health, particularly in young people. It has been proven that therapy dogs and ESAs can play a significant part of treatment for many people physically, socially, emotionally, or cognitively challenged, and I'm honored to play a role in this treatment. Mental health illnesses such as anxiety and depression are on the rise and by working together, we can show our support and let those affected know that they are not alone.”
Julie has a specialization in veterinary social work and has been volunteering with Lucy and Benji for many years. She says she has seen firsthand the significant role her dogs have played in someone’s life. “A friend connected me to the Roemer family and within 5 minutes of speaking with Fronzie, I knew this was the organization for me. After volunteering as a Paws Wish Grantor and Therapy Dog Handler, it was an easy decision to join the Board and I am so humbled and proud to be a part of such an amazing organization.” Julie lives in Northbrook with her husband, 3 kids (ages 18, 15, 13) and 2 dogs.