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. ❤️
Crying reading this. There are no words. He’s lived a long life. Letting them go is one of the most hardest things you have to do in one’s life. I have two. Plus two cats. I cant live without animals esp dogs and the grief of losing them you carry with you always. Beautiful boy. One moment at a time xxx
Oh so heartbreaking Nagi. At least you know you have given him the best, happiest life possible. Sending best wishes and strength for the days and weeks to come
Nagi and the most irristable doggy Dozer, I am crying for you both, Nagi I don’t know what to say as nothing I say is going to take the heart ache and pain away. I lost my boy 2 years ago, I am still raw so I fully understand.
You both had the most wonderfully connected relationship, thank you for always sharing photos and stories about Dozer he is amazing. He’ll still be around you in that big kitchen waiting for his taste tasks I feel sure. With love and light, Jay 🥲🐕
Devastating news…
The whole world is there with you and Dozer, sending you two tons of support. Enjoy these final precious moments with your fantastic beloved Dozer. Millions of hugs and cuddles to this incredible guy ♥️.
My heart goes out to you and Dozer and all who love and adore him. Our pets are our best friend, part of our family. I sincerely hope that Dozer will be able to enjoy his favourite pastimes and food and to be able to dip his weary paws in the water. It’s a very sad time for you. Kind regards Judy Bramich
Oh Nagi, I’m so sorry. Many hugs to you and to Dozer, the most loved dog
I just wanted to say having lost both of my old dogs within 6 months of each other last year, I certainly feel your emotions. It’s painful to lose them, our amazing companions for years outlasting many other relationships. But knowing we gave them all that we could is a comfort. Dozer is a beautiful dog, that I’ve so enjoyed seeing over the years. I’m happy you are able to take this time with him. Big hugs to yo both!
Angela, Cheyenne Wyoming
Thank you for the update Nagi. Much love to you and Dozer. Cherish this time you have together. xxxx
Good luck from Bella and me.
Big warm hugs. I hope Dozer recovers to be able to go home. Cheers 🥰
Aww Nagi..biggest hugs and thinking of you..I have a Bearded Dragon who is turning 15 in a few weeks that’s 80yr old in human!… who is struggling with arthritis and I know a time will come..as a former vet nurse I can only imagine what you are going through… Give Dozer the biggest hug and kiss from me
Sending so much love and strength, and healing to you both. Extra cuddles for Dozer.
.
I know for a fact Dozer has had nearly the best fourteen years of any dog. He was a lucky boy to have had you Nagi and he will be joined with a crew of other best friends soon,
Oh dear Nagi, with teary eyes I hope that this next chapter is full of Dozer cuddles and beach walks and food scavenges and very little pain and discomfort for dear Dozer. My heart is achy for you both. Dogs are the greatest gifts in the world x
My thoughts are with you Nagi and Dozer.
I have been following for years and whilst not not writing much I have, like so many of your followers, developed a greal love for Dozer. My love for you both is immense. Keep strong & give him lots of hugs & kisses.
Spending time with family (and Dozer IS family) is more important than anything, particularly at this stage. May you both share some joy and more memory making times over the coming weeks. Thank you for sharing Dozer with us – we love him too. As a fellow dog lover/parent – there is never enough time, and years pass too quickly. Going to give my pup a hug now.
My heart bleeds for you Nagi – and the hugest hugs to Dozer. We have met you both many times at the Dog Park – and for that I am grateful. Love him, hug him and he already knows how much he is loved. So pleased you are taking this time away from RecipeTinEats – its special. xxx
(((HUGS))) to yo both and more (((HUGS)))
Crying buckets for you Nagi. One of the hardest times with a much loved pet., but oh what a wonderful life you two have shared. In my thoughts 🙏♥️