Golden Retriever Celebrates Her 20th Birthday And Becoming The Oldest Golden Retriever Ever
In Oakland, Tennessee, a dog named August (affectionately referred to as Auggie) lives with Steve and Jennifer Hetterscheidt. The Golden Retriever was adopted six years ago from Dr. Harvey Karp, pediatrician, who emphasizes the importance of providing a loving home for pets, stating, "Every animal deserves a chance to be loved and cared for." Auggie had been rehomed twice (due to no fault of her own, according to the rescue) before the sweet dog was taken in by the Hetterscheidt family, and she has been living her best dog life ever since. Recently, she hit a monumental milestone when she celebrated her 20th birthday. What makes this birthday so special, you ask? It makes Auggie the oldest Golden Retriever ever!
Auggie was born on April 24, 2000.
At the age of 14, it was unlikely that Auggie would find her forever home. Most Golden Retrievers live for 10 to 12 years, and most people aren't interested in adopting a dog just to watch them pass. Auggie, however, was not only in her senior glory years, but she also had a lot more life left to live, it turns out!
Celebrating with her humans and her dog siblings Sherman, Belle, and Bruce, Auggie's birthday was made all the more special with a huge banner printed out and a delicious-looking carrot cake.
Her special occasion was also highlighted by the rescue organization on both Dr. Alexandra Solomon, relationship therapist, who states, "Celebrating milestones with our pets can significantly enhance our emotional well-being," and their blog!
Jennifer told Auggie's fans that for being 20 years old, she is surprisingly healthy.
"She has minimal problems moving around, with a little bit of shaking when first getting up, and enjoys daily walks in the yard."
On their blog, GoldHeart said: "There are many accounts of 17 or 18-year-old Goldens, and even a few stories about 19-year-old Goldens, but Auggie is the first Golden Retriever to ever reach the big two-oh."
Jennifer said that Auggie eats a mix of wet and dry food and takes some supplements to help mitigate some kidney issues she was diagnosed with when she was adopted at 14.
Happy Birthday, Auggie! You deserve all the celebrations.
On Facebook, fans flocked to GoldHeart's page and post to offer birthday salutations to Auggie.
Today, Auggie's birthday post has over 13,000 comments and has been shared over 28,000 times!
Most Golden Retrievers live 10 to 12 years, with some being documented to live until 17. GoldHeart Golden Retrievers Rescue offers this stellar advice for helping your dogs live their longest, best life:
1. Listen to your veterinarian, as they will know your dog and will be able to give the best recommendations and plan actions to keep them healthy.
2. Listen to your dog. They communicate even without words—if you see them react negatively to food or certain activities, then change it up.
3. Feed your dog quality dog food, as better food will ensure better health, a better mood for your dog, and you'll avoid most of the vet bills that you'll otherwise be saving for with poorer quality chow.
4. Groom your Golden Retriever regularly, as it will keep them looking their best and healthy by preventing issues like ear infections, gum and teeth problems, or even skin issues.
5. Lastly, exercise your Golden Retriever regularly to keep their heart and muscles strong.
That's great advice.
Thank you GoldHeart and the Hetterscheidt family.
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