Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo breed from Portugal, is marking a remarkable milestone by being recognized as the oldest living dog ever.
Celebrations are in order as the canine turns 31 years old yesterday. The festivities will take place over the weekend at the farm where Bobi was born in the village of Conqueiros.
The party will feature a ‘very traditional’ Portuguese theme, fitting for this remarkable occasion.
A guest list of 100 people is expected to attend, with some traveling from overseas to join the celebration. The menu will feature local meats and fish to satisfy the guests.
The event will also feature a dance performance, with Bobi scheduled to participate in one of the dances.
According to Bobi’s owner, Leonel Costa, people from all over the world have visited just to take a picture with Bobi, including journalists and visitors from Europe, the USA, and even Japan. Bobi was awarded the Guinness World Record title for the oldest dog in the world in February.
Despite his age, Bobi remains healthy and sociable, playing with the family’s four cats. Family members attribute his longevity to his peaceful environment in the countryside, surrounded by nature.
Bobi enjoys eating human food, which is usually the same as his owners. However, they ensure to soak it in water to remove any seasoning.
Leonel Costa, Bobi’s owner, considers him a unique and irreplaceable companion, and he still hopes Bobi can father puppies as he is the last of his line.
Costa stated, “‘Bobi has been a warrior for all these years, only he knows how he’s been holding on, it must not be easy because the average dog’s life span is not that high and if he spoke only he could explain this success.
‘We are very happy and grateful to life for allowing us, after 30 years, to have Bobi in our daily lives.'”
Costa expressed immense joy at seeing Bobi’s long life being recognized by Guinness World Records. Despite facing a health scare in 2018, Bobi recovered and continues to live a happy and healthy life.
Bobi faces age-related vision and mobility issues, including difficulty walking.
Bobi’s birth date was registered with the Veterinary Medical Service of the Municipality of Leiria in 1992, which confirms his age. SIAC, a pet database authorized by the Portuguese government and managed by the National Union of Veterinarians, has also verified Bobi’s age.
The previous oldest living dog titleholder was Spike, who achieved the record at 23 years and 7 days, as verified in Camden, Ohio on December 7, 2022. The oldest dog ever title was previously held by Bluey, an Australian cattle dog who lived to 29 years and 5 months before being euthanized in November 1939.
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