Elvira, Mistress of the Bark's healing journey

Hi, my name is Sami Presser, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart.

My sweet dog Elvira — affectionately known as Mistress of the Bark — has been my Emotional Support Animal for the past 8 years. She’s not just a pet. She’s family. She’s saved my life more than once, and now she needs help to save hers.

What Happened:

Last Friday, Elvira suddenly became very sick. By Sunday, she was so weak she couldn’t move. On Monday, I rushed her to the vet, where she had to be carried inside because she couldn’t stand or walk on her own.

After X-rays and bloodwork, we got devastating news: Elvira has a life-threatening intestinal blockage and needs emergency surgery to remove a foreign object.

The Cost:

The surgery is urgent — but it comes at a steep cost of $7,000–$9,000. As a full-time therapist working hard just to stay afloat, I simply can’t afford this on my own.

Why Elvira Matters:

Elvira has been by my side through the darkest moments of my life. She’s literally saved me from the brink — twice. She brings joy not only to me, but to my clients during virtual sessions. Her goofy, loving energy has comforted so many people over the years.

To know Elvira is to love her. And right now, she needs us.

How You Can Help:

I’m asking for help to cover:

Her emergency surgery

Post-op care and medications

Safety modifications for her recovery at home

Any amount — no matter how small — would mean the world. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this with others who might be able to help.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting Elvira and giving her a chance to keep being the joyful, silly, life-saving pup she is.

With gratitude,

Sami Lare & Elvira ❤️