I’ve cried a thousand tears and there’s a million more to come.

Almost a fortnight ago, Dozer was hospitalised at SASH with a double lung infection (pneumonia). If he was a spritely young chap, it probably wouldn’t be a big deal. But he’s 13.9 years old, with other medical conditions, and with that comes the reality that is the circle of life.

The initial prognosis was dire, and he went downhill worryingly fast. But my boy is a fighter. Against all odds, he improved, his lungs showed some healing and his vitals were strong. He worked hard on physical rehab and was even discharged on the weekend ………

…….only to be back in ICU a mere 2 hours later with complications. Discharged again….then back in ICU again 10 hours later.

We’re in the final chapter of Life of Dozer and we all know how the story will end. But before we get to the final page, it is my greatest hope that Dozer can come home in good enough condition to have some time to do the things he loves the most – spending time with his favourite people, scavenging around the table, playing with friends at the beach.
And being by my side, 24/7. All the neck rubs in the world. All the hugs, all the kisses, all the pats.

So for the next little while, I will be taking time away from work. JB and my brother Goh are taking charge of both RTE and RTM (our food bank). JB is going to start sharing new recipes and bring some much needed cheer to this website. Hopefully one a week, if he can manage it with the extra business operations responsibilities he’s taken on. He’s been dropping off recipe samples to me at ICU, which I appreciate greatly, even if eating French delicacies next to beeping machines feels slightly surreal.
I can’t promise to share Dozer updates on all his recipes – to be frank, it depends how Dozer is going – but you’ll see some interesting insights into how JB and I work together on recipes remotely. 🙂
Thank you for all the years of love you’ve shown Dozer, for sharing your own fur baby stories, and for making him feel so deeply adored far beyond our little world. I hope to be able to share some more light hearted Life of Dozer tales for the next little while.
Love – Nagi x
Update: I am brokenhearted to share that he didn’t make it. See the Dozer Tribute post here.
Life of Dozer
In honour of the joy Dozer has brought to this website over the years, I can’t finish this post without bringing some cheer to the Life of Dozer section. 🙂 Here he is eating an ice pop – literally just plain ice. It’s his absolute favourite treat these days! Funny how much the bar drops when you’re in hospital, gourmet expectations reduced to frozen tap water and he’s living his best life. ❤️


I am so very sorry. No one could have given Dozer a better life nor shown more love.
Oh Nagi, I feel for you so much having lost my precious 13yr old fur baby just before Christmas. I know the pain you are in, you are in for some tough times but he will forever be with you in your heart. Dozer was so lucky to have you as his mum and lived a glorious life. Sending you and everyone who loved him love.
Nagi, so sorry to hear about Dozer. He was much loved by all, even those who never met him. All our love from our family to yours.
So sorry to hear of your loss. You and Dozer have been a part of so many of our happy memories. He will be missed.
I am so very sorry. Just know that Dozer will always be with you, in this world and beyond.
Your precious boy had to be the most famous Golden Retriever anywhere. Dozer brought smiles to thousands. Thank you for sharing him with all of us. The news of his passing is just heart breaking. Nagi I am so very sorry for your loss of your baby boy. May Dozers memories be a blessing
Sending so much love to you Nagi <3
I’m so sorry Nagi, my heart breaks 💔 for you and Dozer. Sending you lots of love and prayers. Dozer was the best
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. We loved dear Dozer and can only imagine what you are going through.
Nagi… RecipeTin Eats is a family from far and wide. Dozer is such a significant part of the family and yes, everyone feels the celebration of Dozer’s life. We will all miss the ultimate taste tester. Hugs from California.
May your beautiful Dozer boy rest peacefully now. Thank you for sharing him with us-your RTE’s fans. My heart goes out to you. Take time to grieve your baby, and know that by you sharing him with us over the years, that he brought so much joy to a lot of people. Golden’s are just such gentle beings. Take care Nagi. X
I just read the very sad news about Dozer. My heart is broken, words are hard to find, and tears are flowing. Sending love and the deepest of sympathy to you and the hope that your wonderful memories of life with Dozer will bring comfort at this terribly sad time. I am going to miss your beautiful, gorgeous boy. Thank you for sharing your lives with us. He brought us much joy, love and laughter. We will never forget him. RIP Dozer xx
Sorry to hear about Dozer. What a champion.
It used to be the onions that made me cry. Feeling for you….
Oh Nagi, I have tears in my eyes reading this. Dozer is such special family to you, and a special furry friend to all of us readers. I’m so sad you’re having to go through all of this and I hope Dozer can come home soon and enjoy his last days fill with you and doggie joy. Wishing you strength during this time. Thank you for sharing Dozer with us. Big virtual hugs.
Nagi.
I am lost for words.
I have tears running down my face at the loss you’re enduring.
Please know you’re not alone and we are here for you. Take time,
I just hope you wake up smiling at your memories soon x
So sorry for the loss of your beloved Dozer.
Hi Nagi,
We’ve been following you and enjoying your recipes and Dozers antics, we love him and feel for you at this very sad time lots of love X
Bless you. So sorry for your loss.
Hearts are broken around the world but none as much as yours. Thank you for sharing all your Dozer stories with us. I’ll miss my virtual puppy. Tears for all at RTE. A tough time for you.