On average today, 66% of U.S. homes own a cute little canine. Sadly, they also live only between 10 – 13 years on average. Although there is a dog who exceeded this number greatly. Bobi is a Rafeiro do Alentejo who was born in Conquereos, Leiria, Portugal. He is the world record holder for being the oldest dog in the world. Bobi was born alongside four other male puppies in a building where the caretaker’s family stored wood. The caretaker’s dad couldn’t afford more animals so he buried the litter alive. He ended up missing one, this one was Bobi. Leonel Costa, the owner of the puppy, was only 8 years old when he was initially born. He took the dog under his wing and was the proud owner of Bobi for 31 years. Recently Bobi passed away due to old age, he died peacefully at a veterinary clinic. His family does not believe his 31 years on earth was enough for them. Bobi was confirmed to be the first dog documented to live to 30. The owners never put Bobi on a leash or kept him in a cage, he was always free to roam. He also ate human food that was washed to rid of all the seasonings. The owner, Leonel Costa, said that Bobi lived in a “calm, peaceful” home and that was another reason why he lived so long. 

As Bobi grew older he began to lose his eyesight and his health began deteriorating; his birthdays gradually increased in size. His 31st birthday party was attended by more than 100 people and even had a performing dance troupe. Everyone made sure he had a birthday he wouldn’t forget. Bobi would spend time with his cat friends in the backyard, whether they were stray or home to someone, everyone was welcome into his backyard. He would rest by the open fire with them into the night. Bobi was a weighty dog, most dogs that live long are fairly small, due to the fact that large dogs have more health issues.

When Bobi initially passed many were upset by it. When you lose one of your best friends it’s really hard to come to terms with it. According to Cass High School junior, Hannah Rae, “When I lost my dog, it felt like I lost a part of myself. Dogs are family too.” People can form deep connections with their dogs and obtain memories from them that could stick with them for life, no matter the age, size, or type of dog. For Bobi, he was able to live his life and make memories that would last longer than his lifetime.