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. ❤️


Well, the tears have started already. What a life Dozer has had, and this final chapter is the fufillment of all the love he’s given you, and you have given him. May these last few pages be gentle, sacred, and peaceful for you both.
All the best for you and Dozer. Heart felt warmth you both
Sending hugest hugs to you both xx
My heart is heavy for the both of you. It feels like he’s always part of the story when you share your recipes.
My thoughts are with you! So hard losing such a loyal and loving friend.
Thinking of you and Dozer. Wishing you so many beautiful moments together for as long as they can happen 💕
Im soo sad i have no words but I really hope you have more time together
I’ve had 10 Border Collies and the two I now have are my last.
Its a race to see who goes first me or them.
I cried buckets when the first one went and it doesn’t get any easier. So I know what you are going through. Hugs m’dear.
The biggest hugs to you Nagi and scruffles to Dozer. So very sad to read. Hoping you can bring your dear boy home. He is the bestest boy
I’m so sorry Nagi going through this terribly tough time. My goodness Dozer is a tough boy. Spend time with him, take your time xxx
Nagi, this is so sad to read and I know it was hard to write. I am glad to know you are not yet writing a final post, but I know this has to feel hard looking ahead. Thank you for sharing Dozer with us, your sweet family member. The price we pay for loving a dog is this one and I am sending you all so much love and wishing you a sense of peace to be aware of the beauty that is the moments you have left together and cherish them as they’re still here. Much love.
Sending lots and lots of love and hugs! Love you Dozer, you are such a strong fighter! Enjoy your special time together Nagi!
I’m so sorry to hear about Dozer’s decline. I have had 5 dogs and to lose them does not get easier. I know how you are feeling. With love and a big hug, Dorina ❤️
I’m absolutely heartbroken for you Nagi. Dozer has lived the best life ever with you as his mom. And while we all understand this day will come for all of us at some point it is never easy and it is always full of anguish. Big big hugs to you & Dozer. The big goof.
All my love to you both. I know how precious our animal family members are to us. Lots of hugs 🥰
Your love for your beautiful Dozer shines through so brightly. Giving each other such joy and sweetness. Warmest wishes for continued time together
My heart sank when I read ur caption. I immediately started to cry then made me happy to hear he is still here . That boy is such a fighter! he has brought me so much joy over the years. Ty Nagi for being so thoughtful to share him with us! Give Dozer big hug and kiss please. You two are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you Dozer
Been there, done that several times with my furry mates, and it never gets easier. – Desmo, . a fox terrorist at 10 with CA, William, a collie at 19 and 3/4 with a stroke (he was born in our living room and came to Australia with us in 2001), and Abbey an absolute sook of a Staff at six with a spinal lesion.
You have my deepest sympathies, and best wishes to you and Dozer.
When it comes I hope it’s quick and painless and he’s in your arms for a final hug. He’s certainly in all our thoughts.
We love you Nagi!!! 🤍🤍🤍 Sending prayers for Dozer ✨🤍✨😢❤️🩹
As his spirit slowly rises away, unknown to you doors open inviting him into another world filled with love. He will be as close as calling his name. Your tears are drops filled with memories.