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 really didn’t want to read your updates. I understand the loss of our beloved pets. I am sending hugs to all.
Lots of love to you and Dozer ❤️ so sorry he’s not doing well. big hugs xx
Oh Nagi… thinking of you and sending much love to you and Dozer ❤️
I share your pain Nagi! My elderly dog (14 and a half) had an overnight stay in hospital a few weeks ago. It was a reality check for me and every day we get now with him, we treasure! Thinking of you both!!
I’ve been hearing about Dozer for the last ten years what an amazing boy he is
My thoughts are with you both xxx
Thinking of you both and sending big hugs. 💞
A beloved fur child brings one so much joy and happiness in our life, they love you unconditionally and are always there for you. Unfortunately the price we humans pay for that happiness and joy is great unimaginable pain when they leave us. Take comfort in that you have given your fur child the absolute best dog life ever, he knows who Mum is and feels loved. Kia kaha xx
Nagi I’m sending you strength for you and Dozer, goldens are the best puppas in the world. Their love is endless and I had my golden for nearly 15 years and it was hard to say goodbye but you’ll know when it’s right xx 💞 hugs to you both!
I also lost two beautiful companions. I ‘ll always treasure them and remember them every day as you will Dozer. My heart goes out to you.
Thanks for sharing Nagi.Fingers crossed Dozzer makes a full recovery.We ate all praying with you🙏
Sending so much love from overseas. Those of us who have walked similar paths feel your pain and heartbreak to what lies ahead . Those who haven’t will also understand after loving Dozer as their own. For now concentrate on making more memories with your beautiful boy and please do look after yourself too. Love, thoughts, prayers and gentle hugs to you both xx
Oh you poor darling, thoughts and love to you Nagi. You are such an inspiration to us all and I just hope we can inspire you a tad during this hard time. I had to put my beautiful Skilla down following complications with Cushing disease 3 years ago. Now I doggie sit with any one that needs me.
You have been blessed with the love of a beautiful boy and he has lived a full and happy life being truly adored and cared for. The joy he and you have brought Australia and beyond has been an absolute bonus. The world needs more Dozers. You have both inspired us and brought happiness and positivity into our lives.
Sending love Nagi, Dozer and you have given all so much joy over the years. xxx
So feel for you Nagi. No words to describe the beyond heartbreak our pets do to us from near end of life to end. A poignant quote which a friend sent when our two dogs passed away a day apart. “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” Sending much love ❤️
Aw Dozer, no dog could ask for a better life or more love. Thrilled that you’re able to take time away to spend with him xxx
Thank you for sharing Dozer’s antics with us he always brought a smile to my face. What a wonderful life you have given him and he will leave you with the most beautiful memories. My heart breaks and I shed tears when I hear of someone losing their best friend. As it always takes me back to when I lost my best friend, Chilli 🌶️ dog.
Thinking of you Nagi ❤️ sending my love.
Otsukaresama Dozer ❤️❤️❤️
Oh Nagi…my heart breaks for you 😢 Dozer has been so special to all of us so I cannot imagine the pain you are feeling as you are preparing to say your farewells…take comfort in the knowledge that he has touched so many hearts 🥰
How special to have the gorgeous Dozer in your life, have loved your special relationship, and photos in your cook books , love your easy to read recipes, love trying new recipes, our beautiful dog Zoe gave us great pleasure especially the children for 15 years a home is way happier with a dog/pet , she was my shadow.Thinking of you at this time , you are one special and strong person.
Regards Giretta
Thinking of you and sending my love…knowing too well how much this chapter hurts x