Nina is a five-year-old Pit Bull mix in Jacksonville, FL, who needs $2,000 for surgery.

The pictures of Nina with her new family show how much they love and adore her.

"Our family adopted Nina from the humane society just two weeks ago," Marissa H., Nina's human mom, tells Waggle. "We knew the moment we laid eyes on her that she belonged with us. She instantly became part of the family. Even though we've only had her for a short time, we can't imagine what our lives would be like without her."

Marissa says the shelter told her Nina had some minor issues with her back legs during the adoption process. That didn't phase Marissa's family, they still adopted her. Soon after they brought Nina to a specialist and got horrible news. "We were shocked and terrified to discover just how severe the damage was," Marissa says. "We have been advised by Capital Veterinary Specialists that Nina needs extensive surgery on both hind legs as soon as possible."

Now Marissa and her family are fighting to give Nina the best life she can have, but they are under the gun to pay for such expensive surgery that they weren't planning on. "If Nina doesn't get her surgery within the next month, or her legs get any worse, she could be permanently disabled or even have to be euthanized," Marissa says. "There is no way we can come up with so much money in so little time."

They are hopeful pet lovers will be inspired by Nina's story this holiday season and donate to give her the best new year and life!

"Nina is special because, despite the unimaginable suffering she has endured during the first five years of her life, it hasn't hardened her heart in the slightest," Marissa says. "She's so happy to finally have a family that loves her. She loves to be hugged and cuddled by the children and is just so gentle and kind. She deserves so much better than the hand that has been dealt for her."