He stopped eating over the weekend, was struggling to breathe and walk, and no longer had that big "Dozer smile," so we had no doubts by Sunday that it was time.
In his last 24 hours, Dozer got cooked chicken thighs--the only thing we could get him to eat--and we spent lots of time sitting with him, cuddling, kissing him, and telling him what a good boy he was.
An ultrasound on Monday morning confirmed that Dozer's heart was enlarged and failing, and we made the decision to help him go peacefully.
Dozer was a member of our family and a big part of our lives for over 13 years. He saw me off to work or school every day, through all of my degrees and careers.
He always had a big goofy smile on his face.
He was a friend to (or, in his senior years, he tolerated) countless foster animals and new pets.
Until he lost his hearing (from old age), he knew the name of each of his toys and would bring you any toy you requested. He could also put his toys away in his toy box, and open and close doors and drawers.
When spoken to, he cocked his head and listened carefully, made eye contact, and gave very appropriate reactions based on our tone of voice. I always felt like I was having a conversation with another human.
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Dozer knew how to get hugs by being irresistibly adorable. He loved to ham for the camera.
Dozer was our beloved, and our hearts ache from his loss. We miss him more than words can convey.
Good boy, Dozer. Good bye.
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| Dozer 2000 - 2014 "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." |
13 comments:
Jennifer, I just saw these posts. For some reason I had not checked this site after I saw your Facebook post. I have to tell you I have been so sad about Dozer for the past week, I put a short post up today on Daisy's blog. I am so sorry, but I know he had the best life with you. Big hugs to you as you keep those wonderful memories of Dozer close.
Thank you so much, Annie. I'm sorry that I hadn't emailed you earlier about Dozer. He declined very quickly, and we didn't expect to lose him, until last weekend. Byrd and I have been very sad. Today was the first day I felt I could write about him without crying (the entire time, anyway). Please give Daisy a big hug today, from Dozer.
Came across your blog as I was looking up pit allergies online and feel so heartbroken reading this most current post :( My Bo is only a year old and I pray we have him for as long as you had Dozer. What a blessing all the happy memories he left you with. From one pit mama to another, my condolences. RIP Dozer ♡
I so very sorry for your loss of Dozer. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers at this heartbreaking time. I hope Star will not be too sad at this time. Susie
I am so sorry for your and Byrd's loss. Dozer was a very special boy. I found your blog a few years ago when I was first becoming interested in pit bull advocacy. I learned so much from you, and your writing was always so funny. You are a huge inspiration, and have educated so many.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us all. I will tell my pets who have passed to take very good care of Dozer at The Bridge.
so sad to hear of dozer's passing, but so glad that when the time came, he was surrounded by his family and so much love, just like he had been for many, many years. thank you for sharing dozer's life with us, what a wonderful dog.
So, so sorry to hear this. Sending lots of love your way.
Sending you lots of love, it's been a while since I've even posted on Princess' blog, but have always enjoyed Dozer's he was her virtual friend and will be missed.
I came across this looking for something else. Yet I am deeply sorry for your loss. My pitbull is also named Dozer and looks very similar. From his happy smile, I know he had a good home with you and was loved. Though I know his passing left a void in your heart, remember, that during his time with you, you were his whole heart, and that will never change. Again, I wish you peace and I send my condolences. If you need anything, dog parent to dog parent, you may email me.
-Annie
Oh no, RIP dozer. Hope the other side is full of toys and treats for him.
I can honestly say I teared up at the end of your post. Poor thing. Take care
RIP :'( Dozer!!!
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