Popular Aussie food blogger and best-selling author Nagi Maehashi has shared a devastating update about the declining health of her beloved dog.
The self-taught cook revealed the news to her 1.7 million Instagram followers, announcing that “we’re in the final chapter of the life of Dozer”.
“I’ve cried a thousand tears and there’s a million more to come,” Maehashi shared online.
The Sydney local said Dozer was admitted to the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) a fortnight ago after being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs, which may have been linked to complications from pre-existing laryngeal paralysis.
“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.”
Maehashi, who was born in Japan and raised in Sydney, is the creator of RecipeTin Eats and a former MasterChef contestant. She has frequently shared moments of her life with Dozer, whom she described as being “by my side 24/7”.
Despite early signs of improvement, Dozer was discharged from hospital twice before suffering further complications and being readmitted.
“We’re in the final chapter of Life of Dozer and we all know how the story will end,” she said.
“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. All the neck rubs in the world. All the hugs, all the kisses, all the pats.”
Maehashi confirmed she will step back from her professional commitments during this time. RecipeTin Eats head chef Jean-Baptiste Alexandre (JB) and her brother Goh will oversee business operations while she focuses on Dozer’s care.
She said she “appreciates greatly” receiving recipe samples in the ICU, where she has been spending her days, even if “eating French delicacies next to beeping machines feels slightly surreal”.
“JB is going to start sharing new recipes and bring some much needed cheer to this website,” she said.
“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.”
Images: Instagram
