Dogs' home welcomes oldest resident in 152 year history (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Battersea Dogs & Cats home welcomes oldest resident in 152 year history

4:10pm Monday 17th September 2012 in News

Battersea Dogs & Cats home believes it has its oldest resident ever.

Blackie is 19 years old, the equivalent of a human being who has reached the age of 133.

He could no longer be cared for by his owners and was brought to the home in August.

He is among an increasing number of pets who are living longer in their retirement years.

Battersea was founded more than 150 years ago, in 1860, and staff believe the elderly statesman could be the oldest dog to ever walk through the famous kennels' gates.

Blackie has impressed staff with his zest for life, as he loves playing with toys, going for walks, and receiving attention so the charity is hoping it can find an owner willing to give the pooch pensioner a comfortable home for the remainder of his life.

Philip Heron, Battersea operations manager said: "Blackie’s owners assured us he is 19, and we can’t find any record of an older dog ever arriving at Battersea.

"A 15, 16 or 17-year-old dog isn’t such a rare sight in our kennels, but a 19-year-old is a real record-breaker for Battersea. Blackie still has lots of love to give, so we’re searching for a special home for him."