Bobi – dubbed the world’s oldest dog by Guinness World Records in February – celebrated his 31st birthday on Saturday, with over 100 guests (including a performing dance troupe) at his traditional Portuguese birthday bash, planned by his family and owner, Leonel Costa.
Bobi was not only dubbed the world’s oldest dog earlier this year but is also the oldest dog ever recorded, according to Guinness World Records.
Since setting the record in February, Bobi has gained international fame, with people from all corners of the globe visiting Conqueiros – a rural village South of Portugal – to get their picture with the purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed famously known for guarding livestock.
Getty
A news release by Guinness World Records quotes Bobi’s owner, Leonel:
“We’ve had a lot of journalists and people come from all over the world to take a picture with Bobi,”
“There were a lot of pictures taken and he had to get up and down many time…it wasn’t easy for him.”
Ensuring that the extra attention and frequent visits from strangers have not caused stress or impacted his health negatively, Leonel took Bobi for a check-up and the vet reported that he’s still in good health, despite a natural decline in eyesight as he ages.
According to Leonel, it’s the “calm, peaceful environment” they live in that keeps Bobi going.
In the release, Leonel says:
“Bobi is special because looking at him is like remembering the people who were part of our family and unfortunately are no longer here, like my father, my brother, or my grandparents who have already left this world,”
ALSO SEE:
