It's a bittersweet moment as we bid farewell to Bobi, the Rafeiro do Alentejo dog from Portugal, who captured hearts worldwide and set a Guinness World Record as the oldest dog ever recorded.
The remarkable canine, who lived a staggering 31 years, passed away peacefully over the weekend, leaving behind a legacy of love and longevity.
Bobi's journey began 31 years ago on a serene farm in Portugal, where he grew up in the loving care of Leonel Costa and his family. Unlike other dogs, Bobi was fortunate to live in a calm, peaceful environment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
His owner believes this serene setting played a crucial role in Bobi's extended lifespan.
Bobi's unexpected journey
But life wasn’t always easy for Bobi. As a young pup, he faced a daunting challenge when Costa's parents decided they had too many pets and planned to put him down.
In a twist of fate, Bobi wandered away from his litter, a move that ultimately saved his life. For two weeks, young Leonel hid Bobi from his family, protecting his furry friend until his parents discovered the secret.
Though they were initially upset, they realized that Bobi was meant to be part of their family and decided to let him stay.
From that moment on, Bobi became a cherished member of the Costa family, living a life full of love, freedom, and home-cooked meals.
He never experienced the constraints of a leash or chain, enjoying the freedom to roam and play to his heart’s content.
World record breaking "boy"
In May of this year, just a few months before his passing, Bobi was officially recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest dog, a title he more than deserved.
He lived for 11,478 days, outliving the previous record holder, Bluey, an Australian dog who lived to be 29 years and five months old.
Dr. Karen Becker, a veterinarian, announced Bobi's passing, expressing the collective sorrow of those who knew and loved him.
She emphasized the invaluable lessons Bobi taught the world about love, companionship, and the potential for dogs to live long, fulfilling lives when given the right care and environment.
As we say our final goodbyes to Bobi, we celebrate his extraordinary life and the joy he brought to the Costa family and dog lovers around the globe.
His story is a testament to the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions, and a reminder to cherish every moment we have with our furry friends.
Bobi, the world’s oldest dog, may have earned his wings, but his legacy of love and longevity will continue to inspire for generations to come. Rest in peace, good old boy.
See the touching tribute video of Bobi celebrating his birthday below:
