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. ❤️
I’m holding back tears. What an absolutely beautiful relationship you both have. I wish you and Dozer the best, you are the best mum to him 🩷
Nagi, my heart is breaking reading this post. I know what you are going through at the moment, as we recently said goodbye to our 17 year old cat. Cherish the precious moments you have together with Dozer, and remember look after yourself as well. Sending love and Peace 💜
Sending so much love to you and your sweet boy. I wish all these beautiful babies could live with us forever but we will always keep them in our hearts.
Hearts around the world are breaking and we are all crying with you. What a wonderful life Dozer has had and through you he has brought so much love and joy to so very many people. Nothing will ease your devastating pain, it’s so very terrible to have to endure, but know that you are supported and understood. It’s the cruellest part of sharing our lives with these pure hearted creatures that their lives are just far too short.
I too have had my “children’ cross over the rainbow bridge. I try to lead a very good life so that I can meet them again when I cross over that bridge.
Thinking of you both and holding Dozer in my thoughts so he can come home and enjoy things again. Our furbabies are the most precious gift and I pray you both continue to enjoy life together.
Oh Nagi, like everyone else .I have been glued to your pages ever since I first found you and Dozer. My heart goes out to you . Hoping and praying our boy will come round and we see him happily sitting watching and waiting for his little treat from your cooking. Dozer is one of a kind . Gourgeous Boyand He is so so lucky to have you for his mum . Everything is crossed for you both .
My heart breaks for you! Dozier is so beautiful and we never have enough time with our puppies and kitties! Sending prayers to comfort you and know that Dozier will leave paw prints on your heart forever! He will be running in the fields across the Rainbow Bridge one day but you will always have the memories of the wonderful life he had with you!💔💔
In so sorry, Nagi. Crying as I read this.
I’m so sad to hear about Dozer. I too have an old dog with several health issues. We love our fur babies dearly. Thoughts go out to you x
Sending prayers, hugs and love to you and Dozer.
Hugs to you. Thankyou for sharing so much of yourself at this hard time. You don’t need to but it. Is nice to hear how your boy is doing. 😍
All my love to you lovely Nagi.
All I can say is. I know as do so many of us how hard this is.
Take care
Oh Nagi I’m in tears hearing Dozers time wth you is nearing its end. He’s a wonderful old boy, and we have all loved the way you have shared him with us. May you find some comfort knowing he had such a wonderful impact on so many people far and wide, that’s truly special.
💕
Dozer will be so missed, but I knew it was coming when you shared his health status a little while ago. Just so, so sad but you both had the best years. Thinking of you in this moment.
Hi Nagi, so sorry to hear about Dozer’s decline. You have given him a wonderful life & so much love. Stay strong but shed a tear when you have to xx
We have all fallen in love with your gorgeous Dozer, and what a super sidekick he has been in the growth of RTE. A deep sadness is felt as we say our final farewell. It has been a privilege to watch you and your bestie bring light, love and happiness into our kitchen … you are the ultimate dynamic duo.
What a wonderful life you have given him Nagi, and he has returned your love tenfold. Dozer will live in your heart forever and you can do no more now than cherish and enjoy the very happy (and many) moments you’ve shared together.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your magical World.
With love x
Thank you for the update. I know how much it hurts. We’re currently on dogs number 6, 7 & 8 as we continue to rescue those in need which helps when having to say goodbye. My heart breaks for you all. Just know the love is real and you did your best for your boy. Be strong, for Dozer needs you to call it when he’s ready. I’m proud of you both and sending a great big Irish hug to you both.
I’m tearing up writing this comment. I always loved you posts with Dozer. Sending hugs hugs during this difficult time.
Nagi
We weep with you.
Our hearts were captured by Dozer from the very beginning and we have adored every part of your cooking journey with the little curious nose by your side. Take time to breathe and more time to honour the memories that will never leave you.