Hi everyone

Sorry for the delayed post, but I had to get some sleep today as I work night shift.  Malachi is doing great!  The attending vet decided pretty early in the day to keep him another night so the drains could stay in another 24 hours, but that was the only thing keeping him there.  I went by the vet's office this afternoon to get another update before work and got to visit with him!  I was so excited when they told me I could
see him.  He still looks pretty doped up, but as soon as they brought
him into the exam room he put his head on my lap and sat down. The vet
techs assisted him in with a towel due to the tile floor, 
but reassured me he was having no trouble getting around outside.  His
still has not  pooped, but he is eating and drinking so I am sure it's only a matter of time.  They decided
to bring his dinner to him while I was there and he scarfed down most
of the food and took a big drink of water which I was happy to
see.  After a few minutes the attending vet came in and said he really is doing great, better then a lot of dogs do one day after surgery. 
She said she had no concerns whatsoever and commended me for making
the decision to
pursue the surgery to alleviate his pain.  We talked for a few more minutes and she was pleased to hear I had
already made all (most) of the necessary arrangements at home to care for him. As of right now the
plan is to discharge him late thursday afternoon, and she will meet
with us again before we take him home to go over his home care instructions.  As I was leaving he popped right
up on three legs with no problem, and wanted to go with me.  It was hard
to leave him, butI know he will be home with me soon. 
Thanks for all the continued support.  More updates to come... Josh & Malachi

P.S. Leslie, Malachi actually had his name when I adopted him, it fit him so well I decided not to change it.  Interestingly enough, the meaning of the name is "messenger of god".