Did you know our very own community was home to a canine legend? Meet Buddy, the Guinness World Record holder for the oldest living dog! While his recent walks were leisurely, his story was anything but. It's a tale of resilience, unwavering love, and defying the odds. 

 

Buddy became part of our family when he was just three years old, saved from the South Los Angeles animal shelter during a Valentine's Day adoption event. Buddy's journey began at the shelter, facing a bleak Valentine's Day with pending euthanasia. Luckily, fate intervened, and he landed in our loving arms as a temporary foster. Little did we know, Buddy was battling a severe respiratory infection requiring immediate medical attention.

 

Thanks to A Dog's Life Rescue and a community fundraising effort, Buddy received $20,000 in life-saving treatment. What began as a chance encounter blossomed into an unbreakable bond. During those two weeks, we visited him daily and cheered him on. When he finally returned home, it was clear – this wasn't just a foster; he was now part of our growing family.

 

Buddy was there for every milestone in our lives. He was there before our children were born and watched them grow up over the last 16 years. He embraced our menagerie of pets, from 2 puppies, 2 guinea pigs and 7 hamsters to an African Grey parrot, a bearded dragon and even a tortoise! He even charmed the neighborhood vets at Modern Animal with his sweet personality, six toes, and dramatic nail-trimming protests. 

 

But life threw a curveball. At 21 years old, Buddy faced another hurdle – melanoma in the mouth. Given just 9 months, he miraculously beat the odds through surgery, radiation, and cutting edge cancer treatment. He became a local legend, inspiring all who met him.

 

Saying goodbye to Buddy this past February was incredibly heartbreaking. He fought hard to stay with us, and his spirit continues to  surround us. In fact, with the help of Viagen Pets and Equine Team, we may one day welcome Buddy's "clone" into our home, carrying his legacy forward.  This scientific breakthrough could see Buddy break another record, and we're honored to be a part of it.

 

Follow this journey with us @viagenpetsandequine. Perhaps you might want to preserve your beloved pet someday too!