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
My deepest condolences on Dozer’s passing. Such a good boy. Long may he run. Peace, love and strength to you at this time of great loss.
Bless you both…..x
I lost my 12 year old deerhound on jan 7th , so i can feel your pain.
Sharing in your pain and sorrow for the love and loss of a wonderful companion. Dozer had a fantastic life with you! So sorry, Nagi XOXO
Heartbroken to hear this Nagi. Sending our condolences. Hoping you take comfort in your memories of Dozer, and the knowledge that you were the very best Mom any dog could hope for.
I was so very sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved companion, and I find myself almost at a loss for words.
Even though he reached the proud age of 14, I know that this does not lessen the pain. Because he was not “just” a dog — he was your friend, your partner, your constant companion through so many days, memories, and chapters of your life. A soul who understood you without words, who was simply there — in joy and in difficult times alike.
Anyone who has ever shared such a bond knows how deep it runs… and how great the emptiness is that remains.
From my heart, I wish that all the beautiful memories — your walks together, the loving glances, the little rituals, and all the love you shared — will, in time, bring you comfort. That you will feel him not only in the pain of goodbye, but even more in everything that connected you.
Take all the time you need to grieve. Your sorrow is allowed to be there, because it is the expression of your deep love and connection.
I am thinking of you and sending you a gentle embrace from afar.
If you ever want to talk, or simply need someone to listen, I am here.
With deepest sympathy, Sonja
Dear Nagi,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Dozer, you both gave me so much pleasure in my life. My thoughts go out to you both, sleep tight Dozer. xx
My heart felt feelings n prayers are hopefully helping your broken spirit to heal.
Hi Nagi, I’m so sorry to get this news about Dozer. A part of your amazing recipes, the Dozer section was read first, always. Dozer didn’t just bring joy into your life, but his stories and pictures lifted the spirits of people around the globe.
You’ve given him an amazing life, and we were all part of it. Thanks for sharing his love (and gooffyness 🙂 with us.
Sending love and hugs from across the world.
This breaks my heart to read this. I am so sorry for your loss. You were both blessed to have each other. RIP Dozer. You brought joy to many people around the world. Take care Nagi. xo
Sweet Dozer, you have your young body back and can do all the things you love. You brought so much joy to this world….thank you. I know you are watching over your Mom.
RIP Sweet Boy Dozer. Your Mum gave you the best life.
I am sure you are free of illness now and running around some cool doggo beach up there.
I am so so sorry Nagi. Such heart breaking news.
This is not goodbye its bye for now.
He knows you loved him and I bet you anything he is giving you cuddles right now. Everytime you see or hear something that reminds you of him, that is probably him letting you know he’s near by.
Big hugs to you.
Take time in your grief, everybody understands.
Nagi, we are all crying with you.
I sob for you…. my Mugzy has been gone for decades… Dogs are pure love … a gift for us if we dare…… all animals are pure love and when they are gone they stay in our hearts forever..You are amazing
Sorry for you loss.
Lots of hugs for you, Nagi. What a beautiful, full life you gave your sweet pup. Thank you for sharing him, and yourself, with us.
Thank you for sharing during this very sad time. Our hearts are with you. 💔🦮❤️
So sorry Nagi for your great loss.
I am so sorry. I know the heart ache of loosing your beloved furry family. My thoughts are with you at this time. Life will be different but Dozer and his love with remain with you forever. Be well.
Nagi,
I can’t tell you how much my heart aches for you and Dozer. I know how much you loved him and what an important part of your life he will always be. So let the tears flow, grieve as long as it takes and know he will always be in your heart. You will cherish him always!