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’m so sorry Dosa is so ill. Thoughts and love to you both. You both bring joy to so many lives.
I have been down this road many times in my lifetime with my adorable dogs. It’s never easy to say goodbye. Special memories are what keeps you going. And another dog when the time is right.
My heart is so sore, cannot imagine how your heart is. Sending big warm hugs and loads of love to you and our Dozer. Xxx
I love the bond you and Dozer have. He knows he is loved and you are his everything.
Aw beautiful Dozer, we all love you and thank you for bringing us so much joy ❤️❤️
I recently lost my 16 yo Yellow Lab so can imagine what you’re feeling right now. Big hugs to you all. Dozer has a great mama and the best life a dog could have.
Oh Nagi, sending you and Dozer much love and hugs 🐾❤️
So sorry to read about Dozer…he couldn’t have had a better life! Enjoy the rest of your time with him…sending hugs to both of you x
Oh I’m crying for Dozer. I’ve just gotten my fifth Golden Retriever, vowing never to have another one after the heartache of their dying. But here I am with a new 13 month old retriever who is, a boofhead, recalcritrant and loveable. We’ve had him from 9 weeks and every day I tell him he’s going to the knackery as he eats my latest pot of petunias but we love him still. My heart brakes for you Nagi. Gretel
Sending so much love our fur babies are so precious xxx
It’s so unfair that they live short little lives & I am so sad for you, Nagi. It is hard to say goodbye. We have always had golden retrievers & what beautiful souls they are. I wish you peace & happy memories. Bridie xxxx
Thoughts and prayers are with you. As you love your boy to his final resting place may the love of us all keep you strong.
Sending hugs and love to you both ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thinking of you Nagi & your beautiful boy Dozer
Much aroha from Aotearoa NZ to you both. I always enjoyed seeing what Dozer was up to. May you have many special moments across the time you have together.
Aroha.
You and Dozer are in my thoughts. So glad you are choosing time with him – this is so important. Wishing the best for Dozer and hugs and love to you. Take care of you too.
Darling Dozer.. 🥲 How wonderful having time to say goodbye with unlimited treats and cuddles 🥰🙏
This is sad news and has brought tears to my eyes. Since finding Tineats Dozer has felt like one of my own beloved dogs. I’ve followed all his escapades and he’s never failed to bring a smile to my face. What a goofy, gorgeous and adorable boy he is. Nagi you are the best Mum to Dozer, an example to us all. Sending you both best wishes, much love and huge cuddles to Dozer
Enjoy every last second.
What a life Dozer has had…the very best of everything…time spent together, specially prepared meals, a great social life and the best friend a dog could have. These memories will last along time – every time I pick up your recipe books Nagi, I will think of the special bond you have with your best buddy dozer ❤️