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. ❤️
Oh Nagi, my heart is hurting for you. I wish Dozer peace, and lots of love. I wish you love, peace and happy memories. I’m sorry, its never enough time for our furry family. Xxx
As a later in life dog owner your Dozer stories have been one of the pleasures of your posts – as much (and sometimes more than) your recipes. Got damp eyes reading this and hope you get those last precious few days and cuddles with Dozer at home before you have to let him go over that rainbow bridge.
I am so saddened to hear about your beloved Dozer. I have been following his adventures with you for many years. As good as your recipes and posts were, they were always made better with a heaping helping on Dozer. 🐾🐾
My heart aches for you all giant hugs and paw squeezes live Sue
Thinking of you and Dozer ,just luv him have had 5 Golden Retrivers so know how special ,i am praying for him and sending u hugs and kisses xxxxx
We’ve been fans for years and in a way you have shared our table many times. Both with just my family as well as when we’ve had dinner parties. On every occasion every bite was thoroughly enjoyed and I’ve forwarded your recipes to many of my friends. Through all that, whether it’s your website or in your recipe books I get to see Dozer.
Enjoy your time with him.
My heart breaks for you, the tears are running down my face. Such a beautiful fur baby, so loved and cared for. Thinking of you and Dozer at the aweful chapter in the circle of life
Sending love to you and Dozer Nagi❤️
My thoughts and prayers are with you Nagi and your precious Dozer. He is a truly blessed dog and you are the best pet owner I have ever had the privilege be able to witness. Here’s to a bit morre fun with your best friend. Love Sue x
Thinking of you at this terrible time and hoping you get the quality time with Dozer at home that you are wishing for. X
Thoughts are with you and loved ones at this time, sending love x
I have tears for a dog I only know through your words and photos but I understand grief and loss and my thoughts are with you.both. Value and enjoy the time you have left together
Sweet dreams, sweet Dozer. You drift off on a sea of love from all around the world. A good life for a very good (the best) boy.
Sending lots of love to you both xxx
Dear sear Dozer, we just lost our beloved Labrador 14 yrs know Just how you feel !
Try & keep going ! God Bless !
Im a animal lover myself & feel your love & pain with your Dozer ❤️ if i got a pup ive got him/her for all of their life 12-16 years , These guys become our family & are much loved, ive lost 3 dogs BUT they’ve all lived long very happy lives & to this day everyday i see their dogs photos dotted around our home & say hello to them everyday 💖 Cheers from Bundaberg Qld 🇦🇺🍺
Oh Nagi, we will all cry a thousand tears when it’s time for Dozer to cross the rainbow bridge. He is loved by so many. How lucky you both are to have each other. Forever is never long enough.
Our fur babies have a special place in our hearts. xxxxxxx
I’m so sorry to hear about Dozer’s health problems. I’ve enjoyed reading about his antics over the years. Sending hugs.
Dear Nagi,
You and Dozer are in my prayers 🙏🏻
Sending huge love. We lost our boy (kelpie) a couple of years ago, so can totally empathise.
Take plenty of pictures. I’m sure he knows how loved he is.