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
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. ❤️
Love you Dozer!
We know how you love that boy. Can’t beat a golden. Have had my share and I have been in your place more times than want to remember. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
writing this with tears running down my face. Reading about Dozer’s adventures were a joy beyond your lovely recipes. Final chapters are hard. Best wishes to you both.
Oh Nagi, how my heart aches for you and Dozer. I was brought to tears reading this post. I thought about how much joy and comfort Dozer has given you and shared with so many others. I know his last days with you will be both joyous and heartbreaking. Thank you for sharing him with all of us. P.S. My wife, Pam, and I went to a service dog fund raiser this weekend in Xenia OH. They had a 2026 Service Dog Scrimmage, which is a variation of the Super Bowl Puppy race. There were 8 adorable Golden retriever puppies that will be raised to be service dogs and one of them is name ‘Dozer! Of course, I had to buy a ticket for him to win one of the races, but alas he did not. But we got to meet the puppies afterwards and they are all so cute. If there is a way to send you a photo, please let me know. Your fan and friend in Cincinnati OH, Tex
Nagi so very sad. Love the stories about Dozer. I know he will live in your heart forever as you have lived in his. So many people love and care about you both.
Thinking of you and Dozer and sending loving thoughts.
My prayers are with you both. I’ve loved your recipes and seeing Dozier posts for years. He will always remain in your Heart. ❤️
Val from Maryland USA
I am so sorry for what you are going through. Having lost many fur babies in my long life I can understand your grief and need to be with Dozer. My least favorite thing about dogs is that they don’t live long enough. Please know that we are all thinking of you and Dozer.
I’m so sorry for your having to deal with this…poor Dozer…such a sweet boy. Sending thoughts and prayers for you and Dozer…take heart!
Sending all the hugs to you and Dozer, Nagi x
I can barely see to write with all the tears. I know exactly how you feel and it is a hurt that is so difficult to explain. Our pups are family and when we lose them we feel the pain as deeply as we do any other family member. My thoughts are with you and I pray that this last chapter for Dozer is pain free. Hugs and prayers from Tennessee.
Sending positive vibes and love. He’s a lovely dog and an amazing companion for you, hoping Dozer is home soon. Big Love to you both!
Many prayers to you and Dozer. He has brought so much joy to me over the years with his sweet face and your funny stories!
So sorry about Dozer. Big hugs.
Nagi my heart is breaking. Dozer has been a part of my days since I started to follow you. Spend every minute you have with him. Sending you and Dozer love hugs and prayers. ❤️🇨🇦
Dogs leave paw prints on our hearts forever. Sorry for your loss.
I’m sending you and dozer the warmest and biggest hugs! I wish I could make you feel better, but I have been where you are and know exactly how much it hurts. I’m so sorry. He knows how much he is loved, and you have given him a beautiful life. I’m glad you’re taking some time off. I hope you can feel the love from all the thousands of strangers who you have both touched , we’ve got you! Mwah ! 🫶💌🧸
I am so sorry! We have lost so many thru the years and the pain and sadness each time seems unbearable. We eventually tuck them inside our hearts and know they will remain there forever.
Nagi,
With all the heartfelt love I have for your beautiful Dozer, I can only cry. I know the pain you feel. I had my dog for 18 years and he watched all three of my children grow up to be teenagers. My oldest child was the most affected as they grew up together and watched the younger two grow up. Just know that Dozer will be checking up on you: you will feel it. Mine still looks in on us every so often and it’s been nearly 20 years since he went to Doggy Heaven. With all my prayers and condolences for you and your crew.
Such a beautiful puppy dog Dozer has been and continues to be with all the joys and heartbreaks such as this time. So many of us have gone through this moment, but know this: The RecipeTin community (in person and online) love you and Dozer so much and are there for you.