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. ❤️
Can’t see through tears 😢 we love you Dozer,sending hugs and love.
Take care Nagi much love ❤️
Linda
Love and hugs to you and dozer,what a team you have made over the years, I shed tears with you nagi.dozer is one in a million.who doesn’t love a golden
I’m so sorry to hear this, Nagi. Your devotion to and love for Dozer is evident. I hope you get as much chance as possible to spoil him lots. It’s so hard to lose our beautiful pets. All best wishes ❤️
No words. I’m crying crying crying for a beautiful dog I never knew, yet really felt. I said goodbye to my 14yo Golden 2 years ago and I still deeply feel the pain. 💔💔💔
I have come to love Dozer through your posts! I am saddened by his passing. He was a big part of your family and was a joy for me to see. May God bless you and comfort your family in this difficult time. In Jesus’ name I pray, 🙏
Dear Nagi
We lost our beautiful 15yo Goldie a year ago, but I’ve always been amazed by how much he (Flipper) and Dozer looked alike. Both gorgeous boys.
Thinking of you both, knowing how hard it is. He will always be with you though.
Warmest regards
Sarah
My heart aches for you as I know the pain. We all love your recipes but I have to admit I always looked forward to Dozer. Rest dear boy.
Oh Nagi,
Our pets are our best friends.
He is so lucky to have you as his mum.
Anticipatory grief is so hard. My last doggo was unwell for 5 years before we finally had to say goodbye.
Thinking of you, and Dozer. x
Oh my gosh. My heart is hurting for you Nagi. Sending you so much love and support.
So very sorry as you walk this journey with Dozer. It’s hard. Take your time-all the time you need. We’ll be here for you and your wonderful recipes whenever you feel able to return. For now, love takes priority. Blessings to you both.
Create a Rainbow Residency for your beloved Fur Child
The Rainbows Bridge Poem
RainbowBridge.com Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…
So sad when it is time to say goodbye – my heart goes out to you having been there a few times know the feeling
Dear Nagi, my heart breaks for you. I have been exactly where you are a little while back. I hope Dozer enjoys his final hours with icepops and what ever else he likes., and that he has a peaceful end of life. My girl Nutella was my shadow and the other half of me so our dog journeys are love and heartbreak. Stay strong Nagi. Love to you and Dozer.
I am reading this all with tears rolling down my cheeks just knowing so well what you are going through. We lost our little chap at aged 15 and he was loved and adored by us all. Sending huge hugs and prayers to you all at this time. Dozer is a champion.
all the best to you and Dozer. I have been in that situation a couple of times in my life and I know how it feels ( as much as anyone else can in the situation which is always a very personal one ) but anyway just know that there are lots of people who are with you in spirit Spend quality time with him ! XOXOXO Michael
Dearest Nagi, I’m so sorry. I know just how deeply a dog can get into your heart and soul. I still grieve for my beautiful dogs past. Their lives are way too short. As I’m writing this, I stop to stroke my almost 14 year old cavy-cross who follows me everywhere and gives so much love and joy. Enjoy your time with your beautiful boy. Sending you love and best wishes 💕💕💕
Ohhh Nagi, I’m so incredibly sorry to read this 😢
Having been in your situation on too many occasions, my heart breaks for you.
We will miss you and Dozer & I’m sure there will be many a prayer said that Dozer get to go home & do all the things he loves.
Thinking of you both with much love ❤️xx
Thinking of you and Dozer, I am praying for him xxo
My love to you and Dozer and everyone there…thank you for sharing Dozer with us…❤️❤️❤️❤️🇨🇦
My heart is with you Nagi and your beautiful Dozer. Hold tight each other and enjoy every moment together.