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
I think you are an amazing person, I am in awe of all that you have accomplished but that letter to Dozer…. wow…. I admire you and respect you and appreciate all that you probably have sacrificed to be where you are and I just wanted to tell you this. You were such a great doggie mom and gave Dozer such a great life….. and I know how much you are hurting now and I am sending you a virtual hug. But it will get better. I promise. The pain will slowly turn into fond beautiful memories…… and I also want to tell you that you do such wonderful work ….consistent perfection always…. xoxoxo
My heart ❤️ goes to you, Dozer was very very loved by you and he looked like you gave him an amazing life experience. You should be proud.
He had you for his whole life. He was never lonely or unloved. He lived the best life because you loved him. Imagine how wonderful you made his life. He would want you to know that you made him happy ♥️
Dear Nagi: I want to send you a huge hug from Canada. I know you did everything for Dozer and you both knew the love you had for each other. Dozer will always be waiting for you at the rainbow bridge and he is running free. Every journey you shared with everyone of us good days and hard days we were cheering both of you on. Dozer left a paw print on your heart and ours too. We all have shed a tear for you Nagi. Know we are all sending you a hug. Rest easy Dozer.
I’ve been where you are..I’m so sorry you’re going through this You have my deepest sympathy.
It breaks my heart. I know what it feels even to think about. That is my biggest fear with my sweet Max.
Your post about darling Dozer made me cry, but that’s okay. I totally understand. What a lucky dog he was to have you for his Mama, and how lucky were you to be the recipient of his love and companionship for 14 wonderful years.
Dear Nagi,
I found you and Dozer while searching years ago for how to make pad Thai!!
Fell in love immediately!
You and your work are a true inspiration to people everywhere, and Dozer has been the lovable, faithful and adorable icing on the cake!!!
You two have shared your love of life and food with all of us around the world with Dozer always by your side.
He’s still here, in our hearts and minds, just with wings now and perched on your shoulder. Bringing joy in spirit.
Dozer’s memory will always be a blessing.
Sending you love and hugs and prayers for peace and comfort.
xxx
I’m so sorry for your loss Nagi. I’m crying just reading this post and can only imagine how intense the pain must be. Dozer was and always will be a legend. I hope you can begin to heal soon x
Hi Nagi,
I personally loved hearing about Dozer each time I read your posts.
Don’t worry mydear, we are all with you always. Remember, we are all with you, because Dozer was our friend too.
Take care Nagi.
Sending love from Texas! We share your sadness. RIP dear Dozer.
Anyone who has lost a pet will be shedding tears right now for you & Dozer. Your testimonials have been beautiful but also difficult to read. You have created a virtual community over the years and I’m confident that everyone will be sending you hugs during this time ❤️
Dearest Nagi
I am so sorry for your enormous loss. It is so terribly hard to lose such a beloved, special friend. X
I’m so sorry. You will always have your memories and he will always live in your heart.
Beautiful Dozer, my tears fall.
Thankyou for the wonderful years of love and devotion that existed between you and Nagi.
Love and hugs xxoo
Dear Naggi, my heart is so sore for you, When we lost our beloved lab, Simba we could hardly bear to be at home without him, it takes a lot of time but eventually the grief lessens. Ours was the sookiest dog imaginable and his love was unconditional, he made us change in a good way, I got to enjoy walking twice a day and my husband grew to become a lot more patient, pets make us become better people. I will miss the Dozer stories. Vale Dozer. RIP. You bought joy to many. Maggie
The body gets weaker but the spirit remains eternally in our hearts and mind. Stay strong Nagi. xx
Deeply sad for your broken heart Nagi. Your precious soulmate at peace now, certainly knowing how much you loved him xo
I’m so sorry. You will always have your memories and he will always live in your heart.
I’m so sorry, Nagi. He was indeed very special boy.