What Pax and I learned from spending two days with 31-year-old dog, Bobi
I woke up unusually early today, because of an unusual story I want to share. It’s about spending two days with the world’s oldest dog, Bobi, and his wonderful family.
When I received the invitation to attend the world’s oldest dog’s birthday party, I was a little unsure at first. I had previously promised to visit my friend and fellow dog lover, Michelle, and her family, in the UK.
However, understanding the unique opportunity, he graciously agreed to reschedule our meeting.
So, I found myself on a flight to Lisbon, Portugal, full of excitement and anticipation. I had no idea what to expect. All I know is that I will be with my dear friends, Dr. Karen Becker and Rodney Habib, and drive to a small village near Leiria, Portugal.
Meet Bobi and his family
I deliberately did not research any information about Bobi’s family to make the meeting more of a surprise.
Entering the farm gate, we passed through freshly cut grass and fragrant sprigs of rosemary spread by Bobi’s father, Leonel. The scent is lovely.
In the courtyard, we were greeted by Bobi, the guest of honor. Despite his age and slower pace, his eyes sparkled with life, extending Pax and I a warm and quiet welcome.
I saw a silent understanding pass between them as if Bobi said: “I’m ready to pass on everything I’ve learned to you so you can share my wisdom.”
Pax is now four years old, which means Bobi has lived almost eight times longer than him!
Before the official birthday event began, they treated us to a traditional Portuguese lunch with dark bread, fresh salad, Dorado, and sardines grilled to perfection. A refreshing fruit salad made of orange, peach, and cantaloupe melon completed the meal.
As the other guests began to arrive — a group of about a hundred people, including eighty from the media — the significance of the event really hit me. It’s crazy that Pax and I were among the lucky few who celebrated the world’s oldest dog’s birthday!
However, the atmosphere is very simple and unpretentious. Even media personnel, usually known for their intrusive presence, joined in seamlessly.
The simplicity of the day was a pleasant surprise.
In the midst of a world where greatness is often shrouded in authenticity, this event is different. Maybe the energy of Bobi, Leonel, and Donna Maria changed everything. I’m not usually a fan of large gatherings, but this one was very special. As the celebration continues, Bobi seems to follow Pax a lot. Like a wise teacher forcing his student to learn the ropes, while Pax, the restless puppy, is busy sniffing food that falls from the grill.
Photo credit Dr. Karen Becker
As the day warmed, Bobi would, from time to time, wisely retreat to the kitchen, where he toured Rodney, Dr. Becker, and me as we sat on the kitchen floor. Each time, he gets a little massage and rub that he seems to appreciate.
You might be wondering right now: What does Bobi eat? Is he seeing a vet? How long is he expected to live? Why isn’t he gray? Is he neutered? is all this true?
Some skeptics suggest that Bobi is a fraud, but that is not the case. His age was verified through telomere testing and a review of his medical records by Guinness World Records.
Regarding his diet, Bobi eats a mixture of raw and cooked meat and fish, accompanied by raw organic vegetables from the garden. Leonel told me that they will not buy the product from the store. Instead, everything they need is growing in their garden, or if the neighbors are willing to trade!
To my surprise, Bobi also eats cooked onions without any ill effects, despite the fact that we are all told that it can cause hemolytic anemia in dogs. Well, go figure!
Veterinary care and no gray hair?
Bobi has several vets taking care of him. He is in excellent health; unfortunately, he was treated with Bravecto a few years ago for fleas, and that’s when his head tilt appeared.
As for why Bobi isn’t gray, he probably carries a gene that prevents graying. Her long life is likely a mixture of healthy eating, lots of social interaction, and good genes.
Despite all this, Leonel and his mother, Donna Maria, remained patient, protective, and clear about their boundaries.
On Sunday, I talked to Leonel about how unprepared he was when Bobi was gone. I understand him well and I know that you, my dear readers, do too.
Leonel’s openness touched me. We all dread the moment when we can no longer be with our dogs. All we can do is continue to find, research, and discuss ways to prolong their healthy lives.
I admire Leonel because, despite his and Bobi’s fame, he lives a simple life in his humble farmhouse in a small village in Portugal. His openness and hospitality to us and others was undoubtedly genuine and sincere.
Before leaving, we discussed Bobi’s care, especially his mobility and a small open growth on his back. I suggested increasing her Omega-3 intake and shared my experience with natural wound care.
After returning from Portugal, I was touched by your responses to Bobi’s story. Setting up a “Bobi and Leonel’s Gratitude Fund” seemed like the perfect way to show our appreciation. However, life has a way of surprising us.
When I launched the fundraiser on GoFundMe, I spoke with Leonel, Bobi’s owner, who kindly insisted that he would not accept any money despite appreciating the gesture. He doesn’t want people to think that their extraordinary bond can be linked to any form of financial gain.
And while I’m sad that our Community can’t express gratitude in this way, I fully respect Leonel’s decision, to close the campaign and return the money to the donors.
Although this may seem like a setback, it is still an opportunity to celebrate Bobi’s life. We learned invaluable lessons about her care and natural food and were touched by their incredible bond.
ANOTHER WAY TO CELEBRATE!
In honor of Bobi’s extraordinary life, I decided to make every 10th order ending in the number 7 on our website at peterdobias.com FREE by receiving a gift card towards the value of your order.
This offer only applies to new orders, and repeat orders or refunds are not eligible for this event. If you’re a winner, you’ll know right away at the time of purchase! Please allow us 3 business days to issue you a gift card. This special ends on Monday, May 22, 2023.
My offer here is not just about making someone’s day with a free order; it’s about spreading the love and creating a positive ripple effect to celebrate all dogs!
Wishing you many more heartwarming adventures together!
Sincerely yours,
Dr. Peter Dobias