World’s oldest dog celebrates birthday in style
<p dir="ltr">The world’s oldest dog has reached another major life milestone, marking the momentous occasion with a fun-filled 31st birthday party. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo from the rural Portuguese village of Conqueiros, was born on May 11 1992, and reached the ripe old age of 31 in 2023. </p>
<p dir="ltr">And so, it only stood to reason to celebrate, as Bobi’s human family made sure to do with their furry friend - and over 100 other guests from all over the world. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Prior to Bobi’s big day, his owner - Leonel Costa - had informed Bobi’s supporters that it was set to be a “very traditional” Portuguese party. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The menu was simple, and full of Bobi’s favourites, from local meat to fish, with extra set aside for the human food loving dog.</p>
<p dir="ltr">As for entertainment, a dance troupe were scheduled to perform, with one surprise guest star joining their number - Bobi himself.</p>
<p dir="ltr">It was a big affair for the canine, who has had a busy life since <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/miraculous-meet-the-world-s-oldest-dog">the Guinness World Records awarded him his title early in 2023</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The family had seen a lot of journalists come their way - as well as people from all across the globe - in search of pictures with Bobi, Leonel explained. </p>
<p dir="ltr">“They’ve come from all over Europe,” he noted, “as well as the USA and even Japan.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">Despite the packed schedule, Leonel added that Bobi’s health had been good, and that Bobi had been for a check-up in the wake of all of the attention and the stress that came along with it, with Leonel concerned about his friend’s mental and physical health. </p>
<p dir="ltr">“There were a lot of pictures taken and he had to get up and down many times. It wasn’t easy for him,” he said. “His health was a little damaged, but now it’s better.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">Leonel actually credits Bobi’s “calm, peaceful environment” for his longevity, though he went on to add that Bobi is finding it more difficult to walk as the years go by - something that can’t have come easy after his decades roaming the forests around their home. </p>
<p dir="ltr">But according to Leonel, he’s still a happy dog, even if a good portion of his time is spent enjoying the benefits of a good sleep, especially after he’s eaten or if the fire is on during a cold day.</p>
<p dir="ltr">And for Leonel, who has been experiencing life with Bobi at his side since he was just eight years old, Bobi means the world: past, present, and future. </p>
<p dir="ltr">“Bobi is special because looking at him is like remembering the people who were part of our family and unfortunately are no longer here,” he said, “like my father, my brother, or my grandparents who have already left this world.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“Bobi represents those generations.”</p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Guinness World Records</em></p>
