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. ❤️
I know the pain, and feel yours, it is horrible! Love and Hugs , Doreen (Victoria B.C.Canada.)
I am so sorry to hear that Dozer has had such a difficult time- you must feel devastated by his suffering. He has been a wonderful furry companion
My thoughts are with you both. It always seems so unfair that they are part of our life for the briefest of time. But Dozer is a very loved dog and has the best life.
Fly freely Dozer you sweet boy…hugs to you Nagi x
Dear Nagi — I know that nothing anyone can say can make the present situation any less painful for you. As a pet parent myself, I have been where you are now, and I will be again. Would it lessen the pain if we had never chosen to live with an animal? Perhaps, but that would lessen the quality of our lives as well — human and animal, Dozer loves you every bit as much as you love him, of course, and he knows that you will continue doing the best for him, as you always have. I’m so glad you have had each other, and I’m so grateful to you for sharing some of your life together with us, your devoted readers. Please know that other pet parents are thinking of you both, crying with you, and sending our love to you and to Dozer.
Dear Dozer — Oh you good, good boy. I know you’ve had a busy and exciting life, but right now all you need to do is rest, and know how much your Mummy loves you.
Sending you and Dozer lots of love Nagi. Dozer is such a beautiful soul xxx
My heart goes out to you. Give Dozer a cuddle. off me. Xx
So sad to hear you are facing a loss. I have held my dog in my arms as she died. It never gets easy, I had a puppy when my Jack Russell died, and was busy caring for her.
Go slow, take time and be easy on yourself.
No one has all the answers. X
Sending much love to you both. ❤️
OMG I’m so sad! Dozer was such a great part of recipetin eats. Please make sure his last moments are spent with you. I send dozer kisses and love hearts. We will all see him over the rainbow bridge.
we lost our golden retriever hessie many years ago at 13. He is not forgotten. they are such loving loyal intuitive dogs. When my mother was dying and staying with us he would put his paw on her foot or lap and stay with her throughout the day. Such a special part of our families lives and never forgotten. Hard to say goodbye because so much loved.
Sending love and prayers. 🙏🏻🥰
Our family thoughts and prayers are with you both
Sending love and hugs to you both, such a sad time. The love you two have for each other is wonderful to see. Thanks for sharing Nagi xo
This is so sad beyond words. Hang in there Nagi… love you Dozer ❤️ i hope I can see you one more time 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Oh Nagi, I’m sitting here crying for you a Dozer, I’m just glad he’s had his life with someone who loves him as much as you do. I will keep you both in my prayers. Remember Dozer will always be beside you
Oh Nagi, it’s always been a joy to see Dozer over the last 7 years of me following you on RTE. Our family dog was 13.5 years old and his final chapter was December 2025. When I first saw your post about Dozer in SASH, my heart sunk. What a beautiful mum you’ve been to him and continue to be. Unconditional and a true warrior for love. May you find strength and peace at the times you need it. May Dozer be surrounded by love…nothing is better than that. I hope I can be surrounded by love when my chapter ends. Sending you love Nagi 💞
Wishing you all the best. Hoping for the best for Dozer.
What a beautiful Dozer & what lovely memories you will treasure
Blessings to all that was part in Dozer’s life.