Julie Weinhold Lueck has found her passion of bringing peace to people with her four-legged partner, Zillah. She models the heart of service that was also shared
with her husband, Sgt. Richard Weinhold of the St. Louis County Police Department, EOW 10/31/00. This desire to comfort those burdened with stress and anxiety led her to Zillah the Comfort Dog.
Julie became partners with Zillah through the Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry team. “I was so excited for the possibility of serving with this awesome ministry! God has used me in so many ways since my husband was killed in the line of duty. I clearly felt God was calling me to this K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry for the next chapter of my life.”
The faith based mission of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry is to reach others on a national scale through specially trained dogs that instill calmness and comfort. As Julie puts it, “The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs are a ministry of presence. The K-9 is the bridge to touch others with mercy, compassion, and the proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.”
Julie and Zillah both share the desire to help people, and to bring them peace even in their most turbulent times. “Zillah is trained to interact and connect with people of all ages and circumstances. Zillah’s calming nature and extensive training allows her to work and serve people daily in our community. She has made it possible for me to meet people from various walks of life. I love the doors this furry bridge has opened, and it is heartwarming to see the joy and comfort she brings to people.”
Julie and Zillah both share the desire to help people, and to bring them peace even in their most turbulent times. “Zillah is trained to interact and connect with people of all ages and circumstances. Zillah’s calming nature and extensive training allows her to work and serve people daily in our community. She has made it possible for me to meet people from various walks of life. I love the doors this furry bridge has opened, and it is heartwarming to see the joy and comfort she brings to people.”
Zillah and other LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs are available to serve the community upon request or invitation. Zillah has an active Facebook and Instagram account under Zillah Comfort Dog where you can learn more about her, the ministry and how you can get involved. “There are many opportunities for fellow Christians to share their time and talents with this great ministry of compassion and outreach.”
It is a joy to see Julie and Zillah bringing peace to others, and we look forward to watching their journey for many days to come.
“BackStoppers has been there from day one and continue to be part of our lives. Rick told me that if anything were to happen to him at work, BackStoppers would be there for us. Rick was right! All four children have graduated from college with financial assistance from BackStoppers. The Weinholds’ lives have been changed because of the support from BackStoppers and the caring staff. They are our family.” -Julie Weinhold Lueck