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
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. ❤️


Sending all my healing and caring thoughts to you all
People all over the world are mourning with you.
What a brave little guy he’s been! My heart breaks for you Nagi. He’s such a big part of your life. You have been such a GREAT mom to Dozer. Your love has gotten him through these tough times. All of us who love you and Dozer so much, our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you both. Keep us posted as you’re able.
You and Dozer have brought joy and love to all of us.Thank you.
Thinking of you at this difficult time – have been a fan of your fabulous books & recipes for many years and therefore a follow of the life of Dozer! Sending lots of love to you both
Thinking of you and Dozer xxx
We share your pain Nagi. Sending so much love and healing to both Dozer and you as your journey through this. We love him so dearly. God bless you both 💫✨💖🌞
Love and hugs to you and Dozer x
I’m so sorry!!! Reading this brought tears to my eyes. The thought of my Labrador Luna going through what Dozer experienced is very hard for anyone that share the love of their pet. It hurts just thinking about it.
Navi, my heart is breaking for you, Dozer and all of RTE. Know that he and you have thousands of hearts and souls that share in your grief. He will always be with you!
All my love to you Dozer and Nagi. And a big thank you to JB and the rest of the team for doing what you do.
Yesterday I was looking for a recipe and was thinking about Dozer. Today, I’m heartbroken to hear that he’s been sick. Nagi, please know you and Dozer have been part of our family without you knowing it, and our thoughts and prayers are with you and Dozer. 😢❤️
My thoughts are with you. I have followed your site for a number of years now and I’ve always enjoyed the photos that you shared with dozer. Enjoy your quality time because now it’s more about quality not quantity dozer has had the most loving life. And I remember a few years ago when he had major surgery it was very touch and go and he came through it with flying colours but as you say he’s older and when you think about dog years to human years, wow he’s a long liver.
I can’t read about Dozer Nagi. It just hurt so much. He looks like he’s just existing just for you. You hurt and I can feel it like he is my dog.
Even though we all know this day will come, my heart is breaking. Sending you so very much Love, Dear Dozer and to your beautiful person, Nagi. My thoughts will be with you over the coming days.
So sorry to see that Dozer is ill but you are right it is the circle of life. It was heart breaking when I went through what I feel you are going through with Dozer. Helpless, sadness but also the realization that you were lucky to have had them in your life. My thoughts are with you and Dozer.
God Bless both of You Nagi🙏. Words can not express the pain you are going through. He will forever be in your memory and always bring a smile to your face like my little Barney still does after three years!
Love to you both. Dozer is a such good boy and deserves all the table treats he can get.
Praying for Dozier and you. We have enjoyed posts by him over the years. Love and hope being sent your way.
Lots of love and hugs to you and Dozer.