This Little Dog Just Turned 25 & He Might Just Be the Oldest Dog Alive
Every dog owner knows it’s a blessing to celebrate another year of having your furry friend by your side. Dogs have a short life expectancy compared to humans, which is why every additional year often feels like a special gift. While most dogs only get to live the average lifespan of 10-13 years, some are lucky enough to cross the 20-year mark. One such dog is Henry, a handsome Rat Terrier who seems to have cracked the secret code to canine longevity. (Scroll Down to Watch the Video)
Henry recently celebrated his 25th birthday, and the entire internet is in awe of his new age. This sweet senior may look small on the outside, but his heart is overflowing with almost three decades’ worth of love.
A Potential Record Holder
Henry arrived at Max’s Animal Rescue in Georgia back in 2009, together with several other dogs rescued from a backyard breeder.
Unfortunately, Henry, who was nine years old at the time, struggled to land a forever home after his rescue. He has since been under the care of the rescue’s Co-founder, Lori Hartman & her family. To honor his extraordinary age, Hartman has already begun applying to Guinness World Records with hopes that they’ll officially recognize Henry and grant him the coveted title of the current oldest living dog.
For Hartman and her husband, this application isn’t about making headlines. It’s their special way of celebrating a dog who came to them broken & hopeless, but has defied all odds to become a living legend in the canine world. Henry’s impressive longevity is something that Hartman admits caught her by surprise.
“As he kept aging and going, I’m like, oh my God, he’s gonna be this age. He’s gonna be 20…then, oh my God, are you gonna make it to 21? You know…and then it’s, oh my God, are you gonna make it to 22, and 23…,” Hartman told WTOC News during an interview.
Aging Gracefully in Bowties
As expected, Henry’s movements are now much slower and quieter than before. There’s no rush or wild energy in him anymore because old age has shifted his preferences. Though Henry is blind, he safely navigates his surroundings with quiet confidence because he feels surrounded by love every single moment.
Besides his age, there’s another charming thing that everyone loves about Henry: his bow ties. As other pups wear dog collars every other day, Henry is always dressed in the cutest bow ties that turn heads everywhere he goes. Through his signature bowtie look, people get to see Henry for who he truly is: a chill, furry gentleman with a loving family that never tires of pampering him.
Hortman is currently running a fundraiser in Henry’s name to help care for the other older dogs in their rescue. Every donation made will go towards these senior pups so they can get the veterinary care they deserve throughout their golden years. If you wish to donate, learn more here.
