In a somber turn of events, the world bids farewell to Bobi, the oldest known dog, who passed away at the remarkable age of 31 years and 165 days. Born on May 11, 1992, in the rural village of Conqueiros in Leiria, Portugal, Bobi’s life was nothing short of extraordinary.
Bobi, a dignified Rafeiro do Alentejo, had previously made headlines for his record-breaking age, etching his name into history as the oldest documented dog ever, according to Guinness World Records. His life was intertwined with the Costa family, who had been his steadfast companions throughout his long life. Owner Leonel Costa, now 38, fondly reminisced about the days when Bobi was just one of four male pups born in a shed where the family stored wood. Fate had bigger plans for Bobi, and he was destined for greatness.
Source: Guinness World Record
His longevity was attributed to a tranquil lifestyle, far removed from the bustling city. Unchained and unrestricted by leashes, Bobi reveled in the freedom of the forests and fields surrounding the Costa family home. Growing up alongside a host of other animals, his sociable nature likely played a role in his long and vibrant life. As the years progressed, Bobi’s once boundless adventures made way for more serene moments in his twilight years. His gait slowed, and his eyesight weakened, but his spirit remained strong.
Diet-wise, Bobi defied traditional norms, opting for ‘human food’ shared with the Costa family. His diet consisted of the same fare as his human counterparts, with precautions taken to ensure his health and longevity. Regular veterinary visits further contributed to his well-being.
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Reflecting on Bobi’s journey to record-breaking fame, Leonel admitted that the notion of his dog becoming the world’s oldest never crossed his mind until recently. The application for the title of oldest living dog was more about acknowledging Bobi’s place in the family’s history than breaking records.
However, Bobi’s exceptional longevity is all the more remarkable given the circumstances of his earliest days. At birth, Bobi and his siblings were deemed surplus and were destined for a shallow grave. But fate, with the intervention of a young Leonel Costa and his brothers, had other plans. Spared from an unfortunate fate, Bobi was adopted by the Costa family and soon became an integral part of their lives.
Source: PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP VIA GETTY
Bobi’s passing was announced by Dr. Karen Becker, a vet who had met him several times. “Last night, this sweet boy earned his wings,” she posted on Facebook. “Despite outliving every dog in history, his 11,478 days on Earth would never be enough for those who loved him.”
As the world mourns the loss of this extraordinary canine, Bobi’s legacy serves as a heartening reminder that companionship, care, and a serene environment can shape extraordinary lifespans. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts of many, symbolizing the enduring ties that connect us to our past.
