Katherine Short became vocal ‘mental illness’ advocate years before death

Katherine Short spoke publicly about living with “mental illness” and the support she received from her service dog in the years before her death.

She was a clinical social worker based in Hollywood Hills, California and was found dead at her home on Monday from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

On her since-deleted professional website, Katherine wrote about her dog, Joni – named after the singer Joni Mitchell, saying: “Joni is my incredible service dog, who has been assisting me with my own struggles with mental illness for the past 5 years.”

“Joni will often be in the office with me, cuddled up on her bed. She is an absolute sweetheart and just LOVES people, so don’t be surprised if she greets you with a smile, a wagging tail…and maybe even a kiss,” she further wrote.

The website also detailed Katherine’s career as a clinical social worker and her private practice, listing dozens of areas of specialisation, including anxiety, psychotic disorders and borderline personality disorder.

Her tragic death was confirmed to Page Six by her father, Martin Short’s representative via a statement:

“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”

Katherine was the adopted daughter of Martin and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who died from cancer in 2010.