According to the Guinness World Record, the world’s oldest dog recently celebrated its 31st birthday.
Bobi, a pure Alentejo mix, an ancient breed from Portugal, celebrated last Saturday (13/5) during a party at his home in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros, where he lives. According to Leonel Costa, the animal’s keeper, more than 100 people attended the “very traditional” Portuguese party.
Guests were served local meat and fish dishes specially for Bobi, who only eats human food. A dance group was formed, in which Bobi took part in one of the choreographies.
Costa has had several older dogs in the past, including Bobi’s mother, Gina, who turned 18. However, Costa said he never thought a dog would live to be 30 years old.
“We consider situations like this to be a normal part of her life, but Bobi is a special case,” he said.
One of the biggest factors in Bobi’s longevity is the “quiet and peaceful environment” in which he lives, according to the owner.
All her life, Bobi has roamed freely in the woods around Costa’s house. He was never collared or chained.
The “very sociable” dog was never alone because he grew up surrounded by so many other animals, Costa said.
Now in his advanced years, Bobi has trouble walking, so he prefers to stay indoors in the backyard. His eyesight has deteriorated, which means he often bumps into things while walking.
Like people of advanced age, Bobi sleeps a lot. He climbs into bed immediately after eating, but prefers to sleep by the fireplace when it’s cold, his owner said.
Bobi’s date of birth was confirmed by the Leiria Municipality Veterinary Service, who registered Bobi in 1992.
His age has also been verified by a pet database authorized by the Portuguese government.
Costa, now 38, was just eight years old when Bobi was born. For him, Bobi is a living reminder of the past, he said.
“Bobi is special because when you look at him you remember the people who used to be part of our family and are unfortunately no longer here, like my father, my brothers or my grandparents, who have already left this world,” said Costa. “Bobi represents these generations.”