Mumu is a 7-month-old Pitbull mix in Woodbridge, NJ, who needs $2,000 for urgent surgery.

When Ellena S. first heard a sweet, kind-eyed puppy named Mumu was found as a stray and needed a home, she immediately offered to foster. Then she and her family fell in love with Mumu and adopted him.

Soon after, they started noticing Mumu was limping. The more he grew, the less he used one of his legs. Then he started hobbling in pain on just three legs.

Their veterinarian took X-rays and discovered one of Mumu's bone growth plates closed prematurely, and without surgery, his leg would get worse.

"Without intervention, he could develop an accelerated case of arthritis due to the excessive and uneven pressure on his elbow joint," Ellena tells Waggle. "This could cause future discomfort or pain when he walks or plays."

Now Mumu needs expensive orthopedic surgery to relieve the pressure and help him walk without pain.

"Mumu has brought endless joy and fun to our family," Ellena says. "When he gets excited, his tail spins in circles like a helicopter that's about to fly him up to give you kisses. It breaks our heart to see him uncomfortable and not enjoying his activities."

Please help Mumu have a pain-free 2023!