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
It’s the days later when you realize you mate is not there at home. I’m Feeling this right now 8 days down the track. Still struggling with that.
Love my old girl . Ask for nothing, give so much joy. I feel your pain Naggi.
Dear Nagi, as much as i am able, i am wrapping you in light and love.
Im so very sorry for your loss. Dozer was such a sweet boy, the best, most adorable and lovable pet. He’s happy now, free from pain, old age and stress. One day the photos and memories will make you smile and fill you with warmth as you come to cherish them.
Oh Nagi I wish I could tell you something anything to ease your pain. It’s heart wrenching saying goodbye.💔 He was blessed having you as his mum,your love for him, you could see in every photo❤️
He was a lucky boy, a beautiful boy.
Run free Dozer 🌈
Im so sorry you lost your beautiful boy. He brought joy and smiles to so many people. Thank you for all the lovely moments you shared with us over the years.
I remember seeing you guys when he was no more than a pup I think at Dee Why beach, its been a minute…I hope the pain you feel now turns into giggles when you remember all the silly moments with that beautiful pup, and warm smiles when you remember the love he gave xo
Oh Nagi, I have big tears welling in my eyes, we also have a beautiful 12 and a half year old cocker spaniel, that we will soon have to make the decision,
I have loved reading of Dozer, and seeing all your wonderful photos of him and you beautiful smile of joy with him. Keep your memories close to you’re heart, he is now you’re angel on you’re shoulder. Sending hugs and love
Sending you so much love and light for these dark days and rest assured Dozer had an amazing life in your family and he will be waiting for you, tail wagging xx
Dearest Nagi,
I am so sorry for your loss. 14 years isn’t long enough with your boy. The sweet devotion and constant companionship is like nothing else in this life. What a hole to leave behind. I grieve with you, sharing your tears and your loss today. Love and empathy from Alberta Canada
Nagi my heart is breaking for you.
I have had the privilege of sharing my life with four goldens and the fourth (Maisie) is still very much a part of my life having been rescued from being abandoned from what continues to be a hell hole for dogs…..Turkey.
I know all too the intense pain you are going through, it’s as if someone has ripped your heart from your chest, you think you’ll never know ‘normal’ again but trust me, you will.
Any one who has loved a Golden will know how incredible this breed is, I can’t put into words how amazing they are, if you know, you know.
I wish I could give you a big reassuring hug and sit and reminisce about your golden boy but I’m in the UK and my arms just aren’t long enough sadly.
You gave darling Dozer the BEST life, never forget that. He would have felt and known your love for sure. He was a very lucky boy.
I’m sending lots of love and hugs to you, please take care of yourself and be assured that one day you’ll heal. I promise.
Gill xxxx❤️
I feel your loss and grief on the loss of Dozer
Precious Dozer was loved by so many!
He’ll always be there for you Nagi – and for the rest of us to whose lives he brought happiness!
So so sorry. Such a beautiful boy – ❤️
So sad. My thoughts are with you.
Nagi so sad for your loss of dear Dozer, I’ve shed tears today reliving my doggie loss some years ago. I understand how you feel, it’s the worst most empty hollow feeling. Take lots of time to grieve and just be with your feelings.
Yes Dozer would want you to carry on but not till you feel your ready.
Sending hugs & love to you.
I know you know how lucky you have been to share these years with your loyal friend, No kind words will do it the justice it deserves.
My heart is breaking for you Nagi. Our fur babies are so important to our lives. The love, joy and just wanting to be with you is a comfort even in the most stressful times. He will always be with you.
All my love and prayers to you and Dozer who you will see again. Valerie x x x
My heart breaks for you. Sending all our love & strength
Poor Dozer, a lovely looking fella, and clearly a good boy! A tough time for you at the moment, but this will ease as time passes, it shows how much you love him!
Tears for you, and prayers for your life’s season to be borne with the care of the One Who loves you even more than you love this wonderful, loyal, true friend who finished readying you to walk tall, and to stay the course of your generous, huge heart……