06/25/2026
It is with profound sadness that we share an update on our beloved Dozer.
First, we want to sincerely apologize for the long delay in updating everyone. Many of you have been asking about him since our post in May. The truth is, this loss has been incredibly difficult for all of us, especially his foster mom. We simply weren’t ready to put into words what had happened.
Sadly, while making the journey back home to Texas, Dozer unexpectedly passed away.
This is his foster mom’s story:
While stopped for a break and getting more blankets in Athens, Tennessee, Dozer suddenly began having seizures. A kind woman saw me with him and immediately came over to help. She contacted her veterinarian, and we rushed toward the clinic, hoping they could help him. Just minutes away, Dozer passed away.
The shock of losing him was overwhelming. I struggled to breathe, struggled to see, and nearly had to call 911 myself. Sitting there trying to process what had just happened, I was faced with a decision I never imagined having to make.
Before this trip, I had promised Dozer that he was coming home. No matter how difficult it was, I couldn’t break that promise. So after gathering myself, Dozer and I continued our journey back to Texas together.
I’ve wrestled with guilt ever since. His health declined so quickly, and I keep wondering if moving him contributed to what happened. Deep down, I know every decision I made was out of love and the hope of giving him a better opportunity, but losing him so suddenly is something that will stay with me forever.
For those who knew him, Dozer was much more than his cerebellar hypoplasia. He was smart, stubborn, goofy, loving, and full of personality. He never let his condition define him. He lived life on his terms—usually with a wagging tail and endless determination.
What breaks my heart most is how quickly everything changed. One moment he was fighting through seizures, the next he was wagging his tail and seeming like himself again… and then he was gone.
I will miss him every day for the rest of my life.
Thank you, Dozer, for your loyalty, your love, and all the memories we shared. You were one of a kind, and I was lucky to be your person.
Run free, Dodo. You made it home. ❤️🐾
To everyone who prayed for Dozer, donated toward his care, shared his story, and kept him in your hearts—thank you. Your love surrounded him throughout his journey, and we will always be grateful.
Please continue to keep his foster mom and everyone at Rangers Reach Rescue in your thoughts as we continue to grieve. Dozer touched countless lives, and although his time with us was far too short, his memory will live on forever.
Run free, sweet Dozer. You finally made it home. 🌈❤️🐾
