Sweet Niko made it through surgery and is doing well.  Her first day, she was very lethargic which is why we are only now doing her update.  She is a tiny, tiny pup that weighs less than a pound.  The procedure she had took a lot out of her.   It was only a day later that she seemed to be coming out of her dull state.  All of this was expected and very normal for this type of surgery.  I am happy to report that she is more alert than she was when we got her.  She is not able to get up on her own but can take small steps with assistance.  This is something she could never do before.   We are very hopeful about her prognosis but also know it takes a long time for all of the fluid to leave the brain area.  We are still working with sweet Lamb Chop, and her surgery was six months ago.   Niko will remain in the hospital until we feel she had adapted to the shunt that was put in.  Because of her small size, she will have one more procedure to tack down the shunt, so it does not protrude up as much as it is doing now.  She will eventually grow into it but right now, we feel it could get caught on something.    We also have to make sure that she does not develop an infection from the surgery or that her body rejects the shunt.  So far, she is doing great.  

Everyone at the hospital is head over heals in love with this little Angel.  Her pictures during the procedure show you just how small she is.  She looked like a bald little mouse with big ears during the procedure.   Something, we have all noticed, is that her personality is beginning to come out with the procedure.  Before she was very dull and just wanted to lay there.  Now she actively wants to get up and move around.  She is not out of the woods, but we are feeling very hopeful right now.

We so appreciate those that have donated.  We are still way behind on donations for tiny Niko and would appreciate any amount to help us not get further in the hole.  Her bills are going to be non-stop for the next two months because of her exams and Physical Therapy.  All of this is necessary to give her the best possible chance.  If you cannot donate, we understand.   Please, share with your animal loving friends and then say a prayer for the best possible outcome.   Thanks for caring and being part of her amazing Journey to Walk.