Sick friend

Rhett, my dog and faithful companion is sick. My Mom called me yesterday with the news. She though he had a stroke, since his balance wasn't good and he was disoriented. She brought him of all places here to the Small Animal Clinic here at UIUC. I waited with her while they did some tests on him. He's healthy as far as they're concerend and they can't tell if it's a vestibular disease (which would have him back to normal in 2 weeks) or a stroke (which may end his life in 2 weeks). I got to hold him and while he seemed disoriented, he seemed lively and happy. I don't pray, but this is making me change my ways. I fear for my Mom too. She's very attached to the dog and since I've gone off to college, he's the only companionship she has during the day sometimes. It's all very scary and while some may say "he's just a dog," that is true, but he's also a part of my family.