Update

First, I really want to thank everyone for all of the wonderful comments!!  It has really helped me stay positive and to not feel so alone.  It was so nice to read them all.  And, I've told Zephyr that so many people and pups are thinking of him and hoping for his recovery. 

Zephyr has made progress in the past two days.  On Friday he had about 5 seizures, was totally out, and I thought I was going to loose him.  On Saturday he was barely aware, could hardly wake up, and couldn't see.  Sunday was some improvement in all areas.  Today he was able to push himself into a stand, but he needs support and guidance to stay up and walk.  He is very disoriented and his coordination is poor.  His vision is still poor, but he can see and track objects and he can definitely tell when I come and go.  I took Astro with me to see him on Saturday and Sunday because she said that would help him stay stimulated and motivate him.  I definitely think it helped.  They have been using a Help-em-Up harness that goes around his chest and rear and has handles to help him walk.  I got one today for when he comes home.  He is able to eat on his own now while he's laying down and propped up.  I brought in some beef and kibble puree that I made, some cooked ground beef, boiled chicken breast, and kibble for him to have plus what they have.  His appetite is great, apparently the phenobarbital and steroids make them very hungry.  Unfortunately, this afternoon he had some blood in his stool which the Dr. said is from the steroids.  So, he has to stop the steroids for a day or so.  That's unfortunate because the steroids help with the inflammation.  He is very frustrated with the situation.  They told me that often the animals get upset because they are confused, etc., because the brain has been injured and they can't do what they want.  Also, Zephyr has separation anxiety and is very vocal when he is not happy about things, and he's just a vocal guy anyway.  So, he's being very vocal about his dislike of the entire situation and I'm sure it's driving them nuts sometimes.  It kills me though because when I leave he gets upset.  The Vet Techs there are great.  Someone is there 24 hours.  I know they sit with them when they can.  So far he's been the only dog staying overnight.  His kennel area is large, plenty of room for him and a few people, and they have put nice big pads on the whole floor with blankets and pillows.  If he continues to progress he might come home on Wednesday.  Whenever he comes home he will still have lots of healing and recovering to do.  I need to adjust things in the house to make sure it's safe for him to walk around.  Probably build a ramp over stairs off the back deck.  The Dr. said it could be 3 weeks of recovery if things go well.  Mainly his brain needs to recover and heal.  Luckily he is a young strong boy.  I am just trying to stay positive and focused, but being ready for anything to happen.  I am exhausted.  We don't know what might have caused this.  From the MRI, blood work, etc., the Dr. said it's likely some kind of auto immune response.  I'll try to keep updating.

Thanks again for all your support.  This week I've been reminded again of the second best thing about having a dog, all of the great friends you make.