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. ❤️
Oh I feel your pain. I lost my wonderful Westie Nala at Easter last year and still miss her every day. Even now, the loss catches me at odd moments. I think your Celebration of Dozer was a lovely tribute to a faithful friend. Sending hugs xx
Dozer is a special boy and you are a special mom! My pups had cancer and it’s hard to feel helpless but have hope and strength with prayers and love. Dozer knows how much you love him. Your love will never be forgotten and he can get better!
It’s one of the hardest times knowing you will need to be strong for Dozer, to make the decision he can’t if needed. Wishing you hours of gentle times ahead Dozer trusts you and it won’t be good-bye. It will be thanks for all the love, fun and care that you took and gave together, to each other and the RecipeTin family. Go gently Dozer dreaming of your favourite person 💕 🐕
Omg…my heart is soo heavy for you…wishing you much strength and love in these coming challenging days…if there is room for another hug…I have a big 9ne for this beautiful, special Dozer 💕xx
Saying goodbye to your beloved Dozer – & my darling Cavalier Freddy – is agonising. I can’t imagine days without his big brown eyes searching for scraps of food, no matter how minuscule.
I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy Dozer’s loving personality for as long as possible. He’s a lucky dog to sample treats made by a great cook.
I’m so sorry for what you two are going through. I am crying after reading your post and I had to stop after reading a handful of comments. You and Dozer are so loved and supported from around the world – I hope you can feel that. The bestest boy had the most amazing Mom. That’s a bond that will never be broken. Hugs to you as you navigate this difficult time together.
My heart is breaking for Dozer and for you 💔
Dozer is so cherished by you, and he’s adored from afar. Thank you for sharing his personality and antics over the wonderful years of his life. He will be missed by all, but especially you. Big hugs from Wisconsin in the US.
My heart is breaking for you 💔
My heart is breaking for Dozer 💔 and for you 💔
Sending prayers, hugs, and love to you and Dozer. Like so many others, I’m crying; however, I’m also uplifted by the many stories you’ve shared and the joy you and Dozer have experienced throughout the years.
Oh Nagi, my heart goes out to you. We lost our fur baby this past September. It’s tough.
Thinking of you and Dozer.
Nagi I have been following you since Dozer was a pup, his antics have brought me much joy. 2025 was not kind to my own dog named Dingo, he is also running out of time as well. Dogs are the very best and we don’t deserve them. Sending you much love.
It’s been a joy to have Sweet Dozer as part of my online world. Your recipes and his mere presence make the world a better place. I wish him peace and healing thoughts. I hope you feel better sweet boy. We all love you! 🥰
Now cracks a noble heart. Good-night, sweet prince;
And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
Much love to the princely pup who enchanted the world.
Always in my thoughts❤️
Sending positive vibes and wishes Nagi, and hoping Dozer💙🐾 is back home soon with you where he belongs. He’s such a treasure and you being there by his side throughout this latest journey is the most important thing in the world.
Take care both of you – love & kisses from Belle💜🐾 and Lyn in Lake Macquarie🤗😘
Saying goodbye to a furry companion is so difficult. They have loved us unconditionally through good and bad. They provide joy and comfort just being at our side. Thank you for sharing him with us. Hugs to you and Dozer.
Prayers and pangs of sorrow going out for you two pals, and more than Pals. Take care of Dozer’s soulmate! That’s you!
Big hugs and lots of love to you & Dozer.
So sorry to hear this news. Wishing you strength and sincerest condolences. Having gone through this many times, I understand the emotions and wish you godspeed