Save Lotus: Help My Beloved Doberman Walk, Run, and Live Again After a Devastating Accident 

Hi everyone,

My name is Crista Tarkman, and I am the proud owner and devoted caregiver of Lotus—my beloved Doberman who is so much more than just a pet to me. She is my companion, my emotional support, my protector, and truly a part of my family. Today, I’m reaching out to you with a heart that feels both heavy and hopeful, as both her owner and the beneficiary of this campaign, asking for your compassion, your support, and your help during one of the most difficult times of my life.

Lotus has been a constant light in my life from the very beginning. She has a beautiful spirit—full of energy, loyalty, intelligence, and unconditional love. She has this incredible way of bringing joy into even the darkest moments. Whether it’s the way she greets me with excitement every single day, or how she gently stays by my side when I’m not feeling my best, Lotus has always been there. She doesn’t just exist in my life—she fills it with meaning. She is not just my dog; she is family, my best friend, and a piece of my heart that I cannot imagine living without.

She is only 4 years old, still so young, full of life, and with so many beautiful years ahead of her. Lotus loves to run, play, and explore the world around her. She has always been active, strong, and full of personality. Seeing her now in a state where she cannot do the things she loves has been absolutely heartbreaking. The contrast between who she was and what she’s going through now is something that has deeply affected me.

Recently, everything changed in an instant. Lotus was hit by a car, and the driver fled the scene without stopping to help. In that single moment, our lives were turned upside down. She was left injured, frightened, and in severe pain, and I was left in shock, trying to process what had just happened while rushing to get her the urgent help she needed. It’s something no animal deserves, and it’s something no pet owner is ever prepared for.

When I saw her condition, my heart broke in ways I can’t fully describe. The pain in her eyes, her inability to move properly, and the confusion she must have felt—it was devastating. I felt helpless, but I knew I had to be strong for her. I had to act quickly, because every moment mattered.

After getting her to the veterinary team, we received the diagnosis: Lotus had suffered a serious fracture in her left front leg, just above the wrist. This type of injury is not only painful but also complex, especially for a large and active dog like her. It requires immediate and specialized medical attention to prevent long-term damage and to give her the best chance at recovery.

The veterinarians recommended urgent surgery at UC Davis Veterinary Hospital, a facility known for its expertise and advanced care. This surgery is not optional—it is necessary if we want to save her leg and restore her ability to walk and live normally again. Without it, the only remaining option would be amputation.

The thought of amputation is something that weighs heavily on my heart. While I know that some dogs can adapt, it would drastically change Lotus’s life. She is energetic and active, and losing her leg would make it much harder for her to move, play, and experience life the way she deserves. I want to give her every possible chance to keep her leg, to heal fully, and to continue living a happy and active life.

The funds raised through this campaign will go directly toward covering all the medical expenses associated with her treatment. This includes the cost of the surgery itself, diagnostic tests, medications, hospitalization, post-operative care, follow-up appointments, and physical rehabilitation. Each of these steps is essential to her recovery, and none of them can be skipped if we want the best outcome for Lotus.

Recovery will not be immediate. It will take time, patience, and consistent care. There will be moments of progress and moments of challenge. But I am fully committed to standing by her side every step of the way, just as she has always stood by mine. With the right treatment and support, there is hope—real hope—that Lotus can regain her strength, her mobility, and her joy.

As her caregiver, asking for help is not easy for me. I have always tried to provide everything Lotus needs on my own, but this situation is overwhelming. The cost of emergency surgery and ongoing care is more than I can handle alone, and time is critical. That’s why I am reaching out, hoping that kindness and compassion will help carry us through this difficult time.

I am humbly asking for your support—no matter how small. Even $1 can make a difference. Every single donation brings us one step closer to getting Lotus the surgery she urgently needs. Your contribution is not just financial support—it is a lifeline, a chance, and a step toward healing.

If you are not in a position to donate, I completely understand, and I am still deeply grateful for your support. You can help us in another powerful way by sharing this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks. Spreading the word can make an incredible difference. It only takes one person to see this and decide to help, and that can change everything for Lotus.

This journey has been incredibly emotional and challenging, but I am holding on to hope. I believe in Lotus’s strength, in her resilience, and in the kindness of people who are willing to help when it truly matters. I believe that together, we can give her the second chance she deserves.