Help baby Laika Aon walk again — hit by car in Barrio Miraflores, Añasco, PR ❤️

On November 11, 2025, I met the happiest little street puppy in my aunt’s neighborhood in Añasco. She came running straight to me, flipped over, showed me her belly, and smiled like she had known me forever. I took this photo that day — look at that joy.

One week later, on November 18, I was pressure-washing my aunt’s roof when I heard tires, then the most heartbreaking yelp. I screamed “¡La nena!” and ran down. There she was, lying on her back in the gutter, her tiny back leg dangling like a broken doll. She’s only 4 months old, barely 8 lbs, the only girl in a litter of four beautiful street puppies.

I carried her inside the marquesina, gave her water, prayed over her, and told her spirit to be brave. The neighbors who sometimes toss food never even came to check on her. I waited a day… nobody stepped up. So I did.

I named her Laika Aon.

Laika — because like the first dog in space (who launched on my exact birthday), this baby is pure courage.

Aon — the Taíno word for “dog,” because she was born right here on this island, and I am Taíno too.

Yesterday I drove her almost 3 hours each way to VETSPR in Caguas. The X-rays are brutal: both bones between knee and ankle completely snapped.

They couldn’t operate Thursday night or Friday — surgery is now scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday). They’re waiving all boarding fees (thank you!), but instead of a simple pin they now need a plate for proper healing. Total bill: $2,100. I already paid $1,300; I owe $800 more the moment she wakes up from anesthesia.

I have no crate yet, no harness, nothing waiting for her when she comes home Sunday. I’m looking for everything second-hand, but the surgery has to happen no matter what.

If not me, then who? This little girl chose me twice — once with her belly rubs, once with her eyes in that gutter.

Any amount gets her one step closer to running on all four legs again. Shares are just as powerful in Puerto Rico — please tag someone who loves dogs.

Mila gracias de parte de Laika Aon

Borinquén se levanta cuando ayudamos a los más chiquitos.