I held his paw and slept by his side for 14 days in hospital. But it turned out, all the love in the world wasn’t enough to save him. Thus begins the final post on Life of Dozer.
My dearest Dozer,
You came into my life in my arms, holding you protectively. And after almost 14 years together, I held you in my arms protectively again as I said goodbye.
I was sobbing so hard, I forgot everything I wanted to say to you in our final moments together.
So I started writing this letter to you, to say all those things.
I wanted to reminisce about our wonderful times – the thousands of visits to the dog beach, all the wonderful food we sampled together, the cuddles, the neck-scratching-sessions, our road trips.
I wanted to thank you for spreading the joy that is you with readers all around the world, for happily coming along with me to meet readers at events, book signings, fund raisers, lunches, dinners, not to mention TV shows, photo shoots, and my gosh, we can’t forget our stint on Play School!
But as I sit here, typing away with tears streaming down my face, I realise that’s not what I want to say to you.
What I want to say is thank you.
Thank you for giving me your whole heart.
Thank you for giving me your unconditional loyalty.
Thank you for loving me just as I am, for all my flaws, for never caring what I weigh, what I wear, what I look like.
Thank you for always being there, my one constant through the good and bad times.
Thank you for making me smile, even on the hardest of days.
And thank you for trying so hard to stay with me as long as you could, fighting to heal until your very last day. I will never forget how deep you had to dig to find the strength for your rehab walk on our final morning together.
I know that one day, I will be able to look at photos of you again without sobbing. And I know all this pain I am feeling is because I loved you so fiercely and completely, and I wouldn’t trade it for a second I got to spend with you.
But right now, four days after saying goodbye, it feels like the heartbreak will never heal, like I will never smile again.
Rest in peace, my darling Dozer. I will never forget you, and I will never stop loving you.
Love,
Your mum xoxo
Thank you SASH
To the vets and nurses at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH),
Thank you for the extraordinary care, skill, and kindness you showed Dozer. Every moment, from the medical expertise to the gentle reassurance and cheering him on, meant more to me than I can say. Knowing he was in such capable, compassionate hands gave me comfort during the hardest days. I will always be deeply grateful for everything you did for my beautiful boy. – Nagi x
I understand what you’re going through. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Sending you so much love, Nagi Maehashi. Dozer brought a ridiculous amount of joy to your corner of the internet, and it was a privilege to witness that bond. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I was heartbroken for you as I read of Dozers death. It’s so hard loosing such a great friend and companion. I sat here and cried my eyes out.. I can only hope that your heart heals as the days pass and you can remember him without the pain.
Thinking of you.
So sorry for your loss.
Thank you for sharing all the stories of Dozer, they always bought a smile and with that came a tear to hear of his passing.
He will always be remembered as such an important part of what you have created.
Nagi, so very sorry for your loss—Dozer was one very special guy! He will always have a place in your heart, but I know this is a tough transition for you. Just know that he knew (as do your faithful followers) how MUCH you loved and cherished him.
So sorry for your loss, we will all miss his beautiful face, never too far away from you. Sending love and hugs at this very difficult time.
I’m so so sorry for your loss. I had to let go of my big boy 4 months ago. Hugs and prayers to you as you heal dear.
Nagi, just wanted you to know that I’m truly sorry for your loss of Dozer and he will be missed from Recipetineats. Take care!!
So much love ❤️ so many happy memories. Sending hugs to you Nagi
So sorry for your loss, remember the good times and remember you gave Dozer the best life xx
I am so sorry Nagi. x
Nagi,
Thank you for sharing, your love, your life, your joy, your sorrow. We smiled with you, we celebrated with you, we grieve with you. Please know you’re not alone, we are here with you. ❤️
I’m so sad for you with the passing of your beloved Dozer l know how it feels losing part of your life remember the beautiful times with him knowing how loved he was by you and your family and friends
Sincerest condolences for your loss. Reading your letter brought back so many memories of when I lost my rabbit, Malia. Dozer was such a special companion .I enjoyed reading about his adventures and antics. Sending you hugs.
Dearest Nagi
We are all thinking of you and we know the pain you have now doesn’t feel like it will ever go away, but trust me…. time will heal your broken heart.
Please stay strong. Sending you lots of love, peace and acceptance.
And look after yourself.
Natasja and family
Anyone who has ever lost a beloved pet knows how bereft you are feeling right now Nagi. Dozer was a beautiful boy & we will all miss him. Sending hugs to you. Take care of yourself. Xx
So sad for you Nagi.
He had a beautiful life.
God bless.
My deepest condolences! What a beautiful dog Dozer was and how lucky you both were to experience such unconditional love. Even reading your post all the way from Los Angeles, and never having met Dozer in person, I can feel the love. Much love and strength!
So very sad to hear your news. His spirit will always be with you and you gace him an amazing life. Rest playfully Dozer. ❤️🩹
I am so sorry, Nagi. Dozer bought joy to so many, including me. Sending you lots of love.