Lala's Medical and Surgery Expenses

We are reaching out to our community to help us with our little Lala's medical needs.

On 11/25, we left our 1 year old pup, Lala, in the care of our trusted dog sitter and headed out for a short vacation. On the morning of 11/27, our sitter called us in a panic to let us know that she had slipped out of her collar and taken off running. Our community rallied together in the next 24 hours, putting up flyers, scouring the neighborhood, and lovingly spreading the word on social media, but we could not locate her. On the morning of 11/28, our hearts sank as we received the news that Lala had been brought into emergency veterinary care by Highway Patrol after being hit by a car on the freeway. We braced ourselves for the absolute worst and started making arrangements to be with her in person.

As we made our way home, we were told over the phone that Lala had sustained significant trauma to her hind legs, hips and pelvis and would need multiple surgeries to even begin to recover. Her X-rays showed two broken femurs, a fractured and partially detached pelvis, and a fractured hip joint. Doctors and nurses counseled us over the phone on all our options, including the possibility of letting her go. They explained that given the road ahead and the significant cost involved, many pet owners might opt to say goodbye. We spent the night deliberating on our redeye flight, trying to get to a place of acceptance around all possible outcomes, even letting her go.

However, as soon as we arrived at the hospital, we knew that letting her go was not an option. She was awake, alert, and greeted us with tail wags and smiley eyes. Much to our surprise, she was full of life! The surgeon also informed us that despite the amount of trauma she had suffered, each of the surgeries that Lala required was straightforward with good chances of success. We’ve decided that since she has a real shot at recovery, we want her to have it.

Since Lala came to us initially through a rescue organization, we don't know her exact birthdate. On her official immigration paperwork, that date is listed as today 11/30. On her first birthday, we want to do everything we can to give her many more happy years ahead. We know it won't be easy, and we have a long road ahead with her...

...and that's where you come in!

Currently, the hospital has estimated that her surgeries to fix her hind legs and pelvis will cost about $50,000. Regardless of fundraising outcomes, we are committed to making the necessary payments. However, this estimate does not include potential complications and future rehabilitation and physical therapy that she will need. We ask for any help you can provide to support Lala throughout this process.

We've been so touched by our community. From all the thoughtful messages, the strangers who contacted us when they spotted her on the road, the dear friends and family who sacrificed their week driving around the neighborhood searching, going to the hospital on our behalf, and helping us arrange our travel home - we can't imagine having gone through this without all of your support and love. We know this will continue to be a community effort in many ways.

Thank you all,

Clifford, Aki, and Lala