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. ❤️


Blessings to you both. The love for Dozer will always be with him and with you. Thank you for sharing your noble Dozer with us xxx
I’m sorry you’re both in pain. Praying those around you will bring comfort during this time and beyond when the time comes.
So sorry to hear Dozer is unwell. Both of you have brought so much happiness to so many people. I hope he gets to go home soon
You are both in my thoughts and prayers. Take care. 🙏❤️
Sending love and huge hugs to you and Dozer. He is such a beautiful boy. X
Nagi and beautiful Dozer such sad news to hear. I have tears in my eyes for you both. Thinking of you both.
No words can describe the pain and utter desolation experienced when losing a much loved pet. I am so sorry you are now facing this.
I hope your wish for some quality time at home with Dozer comes true. It is so hard to say goodbye.
With much love to you both.
The shoes you walk in are the most difficult ones I have walked in. My thought are with you and yours at this awefully sad time
Sending love and comfort to you and Dozer.
My heart goes out to you it takes me back when my lovely “DUKE” passed away – he was a huge 150 lbs and used to stand on his hind legs and woof – people would ask me if he was half bear lol….much love and tears ~ Dianne xox
Such a good, good boy 💔♥️
Hi Nagi and Dozer my prayers are with you. Big hugs to Dozer. He will always be with you. if not in body but in all the wonderful memories he has given you and still is. My heart is with you both
Take solace in knowing that you’ve done everything possible for him. As I tell my boy, who passed a year ago this month, “if love could have kept you alive, you would have lived forever.” I’ve no doubt you feel similarly. I also believe love transcends time and space, and while our connections may be severed, it’s only briefly. I know I don’t have to say it, but enjoy every second you have left with him. These times are hard, and the pain is immense, but you’ll learn to appreciate how much closer you’ve become with him.
I am so sad to hear about Dozer. I know your heart breaks, and yes many tears are shed when we lose our pets, that we give so much love to. You have wonderful photos of so many things that Dozer was a part of. Many happy memories of your wonderful Dozer.
Hoping for your best outcome! Sending hugs and much love to you and Dozer!!!
My heart is with you and your beloved Dozer
Sending lots of love and hugs .
So lovely you are able to reflect on all the good times. Dozer is such a big part of recipetineats and all you have achieved. He is a true star. Just love him to the end and beyond 💗🐾
Oh Nagi! Love Dozer. He deserves all the cuddles you can give him. 13 years is amazing for a retriever. Xxxx
My heart is breaking. Nagi I’m so very sorry. I hope Dozer does get to come home to you to play at beach. Take care of yourself xx