Owner Leonel Costa said more than 100 people attended the “very traditional” Portuguese feast. Local meats and fish were served, with extras for Bobi, who only eats human food.
Bobi, the world's oldest dog. Photo: EPA-EFE
Costa has owned a number of older dogs in the past, including Bobi's mother, Gira, who lived to be 18. However, Costa said he never imagined any of his dogs would reach 30.
According to Costa, one of the biggest factors contributing to Bobi’s longevity is his “quiet, peaceful environment.” Throughout his life, Bobi has roamed freely in the forests surrounding Costa’s home. He has never been chained.
Costa said the “very sociable” dog was never lonely because he grew up with other animals. Now that he is older, Bobi finds it difficult to walk, so he prefers to roam the yard. His eyesight has deteriorated, meaning he often bumps into things when walking.
Like old people, Bobi sleeps a lot. He goes straight to bed after eating, although on cold days he chooses to nap by the fire.
Bobi's date of birth was confirmed by the Leiria Municipal Veterinary Health Service, which registered Bobi in 1992. His age was also verified by a pet database recognized by the Portuguese authorities.
Costa, now 38, was just eight when Bobi was born. For him, Bobi is a living reminder of the past. “Bobi is special because looking at him reminds me of people who were part of our family and are no longer here, like my father, my brother or my grandparents who have left this world,” Costa said.
Huy Hoang (according to AP)
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