Shelly Crema is the founder of the nonprofit Protect Our Paws and a passionate advocate for rescue dogs in crisis. After raising her two sons, Shelly found her calling in animal rescue, dedicating her time and resources to helping abandoned, neglected, and medically fragile dogs receive the care they deserve.

Her journey into rescue work began six years ago when she helped save a senior German Shepherd named Belvedere who had been scheduled for euthanasia at a shelter. Learning he was suffering from advanced cancer, Shelly adopted him to ensure his final months were filled with comfort, safety, and love. The experience profoundly shaped her mission.

Since then, Shelly has adopted eight rescue dogs and supported many more through emergency medical funding, rehabilitation, behavioral support, and rescue partnerships. Through Protect Our Paws, she focuses on helping dogs in urgent situations and providing assistance to rescues and individuals who lack the financial resources to save them.

Shelly currently lives with three rescue dogs—Maverick, an energetic Chihuahua mix; Alley, a gentle German Shepherd; and Diego, a feisty senior Chihuahua affectionately known as “Mr. Baby.” When she’s not advocating for rescue dogs, Shelly enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and her dogs—whether hiking, running on the beach, or traveling together.

Shelly says, “Rescuing isn’t something I do. It’s who I am.”