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. ❤️
Lots of love and hugs to you and Dozer from south Texas.
Nagi, the loss of your soul dog is unbearable. So happy to hear you will take the time off to be with Dozer. I know he will so appreciate the love of HIS life being with him as he goes through his final chapter. I am so sorry.
Nagi I have never responded to a post before. Dozer has prompted me to do so. We are in the middle of a similar journey. Our Maine Coon kitty, Leroy (23 years old), is on his final journey. We don’t know how much more time we have with him, but my husband is buying his renal support food in bundles of 6 cans these days rather than by the case for the past few years. One of Leroy’s favourite places to lounge is under the Christmas tree. The floor is warm, and the lights above also provide warmth and shelter. The Christmas tree is staying up as long as Leroy is with us. Our best to you and Dozer, fingers crossed you will get that hospice time at home.
Love and prayers to you and Dozer. It truly is heartbreaking. We just wish that we could have them with us for so much longer. What a wonderful rest of his life he will have, making more memories for you to cherish forever. Lots of love xx
I became familiar with your website because Dozer caught my eye. We have rescued two Goldens from China. Our first was Golden Boy, who came to us via Seattle Washington where he was diagnosed with pneumonia and later multiple myeloma. He was in our care for almost a year when his breathing became a concern. The emergency vet said put him down. After attempts to reverse his condition we said our goodbyes. The president of the rescue organization does not give up on animals they rescue. Her research came up with a condition called Blastomycosis, caused by a fungus. We concluded this is what he had, not pneumonia. Most vets are unfamiliar with this condition. I send this in the hope Dozer does not have this. Golden Boys Journal is still up on Facebook if you want to read more. Prayers for you and Dozer.
Sending much positive vibes, strength and love. Know we all love Dozer too.
Just like you Nagi we are hanging by a thread for Dozer health.
What a wonderful life your sweet Dozer has enjoyed with you, Nagi!! I have truly loved his involvement in emails throughout your career and communication. Thank you for sharing his cute, furry love with us!🐾❤️ It’s so hard to say goodbye. They are such a big part of the family. Blessings!
Dozer is such a sweet, playful, wonderful puppy. He will always be with you and his many, many fans. His memory is in your bones. I love all my puppies and cats, even though so many are not here physically. Much love to you, your family and colleagues.
He’s been our loyal mascot for many years. Love by all, will be mourned by all.
Thank you for all the smiles your posts about the life of Dozer have brought me over the years. I am sharing in your heartbreak right now but will remember him always with love and gratitude for the happiness he has brought me and so many others.
Lovingly,
Shelagh
So sorry about Dozer. Know that when he crosses the Rainbow Bridge, he will no longer be in pain and happy.
I am crying buckets. I have “known” Dozer for most of his life. What a guy he is. I am sooooo sorry, what else can I say. Stay brave stay strong …love Maggie, xx
Prayers for you and Dozer. I lost my sweet girl in recent months, so my heart goes out to you. Sending love to you both.
Big love to you both xx
I’m bawling my eyes out right now. And sending you both my love.
Best wishes – always tough to lose someone close, but remember the best of times rather than dwelling on the sadness of the end
Nagi, I’m so desperately sorry to read about Dozer. I’m an old lady and have been in the same position you’re in myself. It never gets any easier. Give Dozer a gentle but big hug from me, tell him that so many people love him, we also love you!
Prayers for peace and grace. I know he knows he’s loved.
I’m so sorry to hear about Dozer, I definitely know how that feels. They become such a great part of your life, bring so much joy to you!! My thoughts and prayers go out to you and Dozer, he knows you love him!!