I held his paw and slept by his side for 14 days in hospital. But it turned out, all the love in the world wasn’t enough to save him. Thus begins the final post on Life of Dozer.
My dearest Dozer,
You came into my life in my arms, holding you protectively. And after almost 14 years together, I held you in my arms protectively again as I said goodbye.
I was sobbing so hard, I forgot everything I wanted to say to you in our final moments together.
So I started writing this letter to you, to say all those things.
I wanted to reminisce about our wonderful times – the thousands of visits to the dog beach, all the wonderful food we sampled together, the cuddles, the neck-scratching-sessions, our road trips.
I wanted to thank you for spreading the joy that is you with readers all around the world, for happily coming along with me to meet readers at events, book signings, fund raisers, lunches, dinners, not to mention TV shows, photo shoots, and my gosh, we can’t forget our stint on Play School!
But as I sit here, typing away with tears streaming down my face, I realise that’s not what I want to say to you.
What I want to say is thank you.
Thank you for giving me your whole heart.
Thank you for giving me your unconditional loyalty.
Thank you for loving me just as I am, for all my flaws, for never caring what I weigh, what I wear, what I look like.
Thank you for always being there, my one constant through the good and bad times.
Thank you for making me smile, even on the hardest of days.
And thank you for trying so hard to stay with me as long as you could, fighting to heal until your very last day. I will never forget how deep you had to dig to find the strength for your rehab walk on our final morning together.
I know that one day, I will be able to look at photos of you again without sobbing. And I know all this pain I am feeling is because I loved you so fiercely and completely, and I wouldn’t trade it for a second I got to spend with you.
But right now, four days after saying goodbye, it feels like the heartbreak will never heal, like I will never smile again.
Rest in peace, my darling Dozer. I will never forget you, and I will never stop loving you.
Love,
Your mum xoxo
Thank you SASH
To the vets and nurses at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH),
Thank you for the extraordinary care, skill, and kindness you showed Dozer. Every moment, from the medical expertise to the gentle reassurance and cheering him on, meant more to me than I can say. Knowing he was in such capable, compassionate hands gave me comfort during the hardest days. I will always be deeply grateful for everything you did for my beautiful boy. – Nagi x
No words will lessen the sadness and loneliness you are feeling right now. Just know that he will always be with you, and one day you will remember him with a smile, a memory, or a happy time.
I couldn’t hold back my tears when I saw the caption ‘In memory of Dover. I know how painful it is to lose a furry best friend – your companion, your comfort, and a piece of your heart. I wish you strength during this difficult time of healing. Thank you for sharing Dozer’s stories with us. Wishing you peace, comfort and gentle days ahead. Love ❤️ Claire from Malta 🇲🇹
You will be able to look at Dozer’s pictures again without crying…on some days. Even years from now those same pictures will still make you cry. But, they will also make you smile, too.
This “raw pain” will take time to overcome and you’re right, it’s because of your profound, fierce love for your best friend.
I’m truly sorry. I know Dozer was your world and things are going to be quiet and different now. Everything of his is going to break your heart all over again. I’m so sorry. But, he was a spoiled boy. There’s gonna be lots of reminders.
Breathe deep, my friend. Carry tissue and cry. You won’t be able to stop it anyway.
Just know we all love you and are here hurting with you. One of mine just woke up and is kicking me outta my chair. He wants the “warm spot” where I’m sitting. Yeah, he’s spoiled, too.
Most of us have been in your shoes. It doesn’t make, not one bit easier. It sucks. It will always suck. But, I will do it again because I have to because I’m addicted to that “unconditional, nonjudgmental love” I can’t get anywhere else.
Dear Sweet One, your love was strong enough… strong enough that he felt he was safe. Strong enough that you would have loving memories to carry you through. Strong enough for him to go, knowing you loved him with your whole heart and soul. You’re stronger than you think, right now. Be at peace Dozer, we got her!
My deepest condolences, I loved seeing the pictures. My neighbour told me after his dog passed that although he was sad, he got another dog because he looked upon it as giving another dog a good home.
Dear Nagi
My deepest condolences to you. I’ve loved my Golden and other pups as you love Dozer. I hope your heart heals with all your wonderful memories. Goldens are a special breed you were so lucky to have him as his Mum.
Xoxo Rangers Golden Mum
My heart goes out to you, Nagi, in the loss of your darling Dozer, I lost my fur baby last year, and it still hurts. However, I believe we’ll never really be apart and will meet again, a love like that transcends everything – even life. Dozer was very fortunate to have been loved by you, and you by him. My thoughts are with you.
Having a dog will bless you with many of the happiest days of your life, and one of the worst. So sorry for your loss. He was beloved by many 🕊️
I am so sorry to hear about your loss, Nagi! I was reading your letter, and I was bawling my eyes out. It was so beautiful. May Dozer rest in peace and have all the food he dreamed about having!
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Dear Nagi, I’m so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing Dozer with us, his beautiful spirit will not be forgotten.
Dearest Nagi. I am holding you in my heart, sending Love and hugs. Dozer was a very special boy.
Dear Nagi
I’m so sorry for your loss. Our pets are family and leave us with memories that won’t be replaced, but the ache that comes without their presence is hard to bear. Dozer is with us all in your books and online. Thank you for sharing him.
I’m very sorry for your loss. He will live on in your heart and your memories.
Love to you and peace to Dozer your wonderful companion for all those years!
All Dozer had in his life was you and and all the tasty nibbles whilst you cooked. He left you knowing only love and kindness. Keep well, Nagi with much love, Jean
I am so sad to hear about Dozer. He must have been one of the most loved dogs ever as all your followers loved him too! Goldens should live forever as they are the bestest dogs. Hugs to you, he was very special!❤️😢🫂
SO very sorry. You are both a special pair. Take your time.
May Dozer rest in peace.
My heart breaks for you. Dozer was one of a kind. Our pets are family. He is 8n your heart forever Send8n* you love and hugs
So sorry to hear about Dozer. He was such a lovely dog and a big part of your life. Take comfort that you looked after him well all through his lovely life x