Monday May 15, 2023 | 10:53 a.m.
The world’s oldest dog recently celebrated his 31st birthday, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo, a Portuguese breed, celebrated during a party Saturday at his home in the rural Portuguese town of Conqueiros, where he has spent his entire life. More than 100 people turned out for the “very traditional” Portuguese party, said its owner, Leonel Costa.
The menu included local meat and fish for the 100 guests, and an extra for Bobi, who only eats food for humans. A dance troupe also showed up and Bobu participated in one of her routines. Costa has had several dogs that have reached advanced ages, including Bobi’s mother, Gira, who reached her 31st birthday. However, Costa never imagined that any of her dogs would exceed 30 years of age.
“We see situations like this as a normal result of the life they have had, but Bobi is unique,” Costa said. One of the main factors that contributes to Bobi’s longevity is the “calm and peaceful environment” in which she lives,” according to Costa. Throughout her life, Bobi has roamed freely in the woods surrounding the house of Costa He has never been chained or on a leash The “great” dog was never alone because he grew up surrounded by many other animals, Costa said.
In recent years, Bobi has had trouble walking, so she prefers to spend time in her backyard. Her eyesight has deteriorated, so she often bumps into things when she walks. Like elderly humans, she Bobi sleeps a lot. She lies in bed immediately after eating, although on cold days she chooses to take her nap by the campfire, her owner said.
The Veterinary Medicine Service of the Municipality of Leiria confirmed Bobi’s date of birth, which was registered in 1992. His age was also verified by SIAC, a pet database authorized by the Portuguese government and managed by the National Union of Veterinary Doctors. Costa, 38, was just 8 years old when Bobi was born. For him, Bobi is a living reminder of the past, he said.
“Bobi is special because seeing him is like remembering the people who were part of our family and who unfortunately are no longer here, like my father, my brother, or my grandparents, who have already left this world,” said Costa. “Bobi represents those generations.”
