'A once-in-a-lifetime companion': Family mourns death of Pebbles, world's oldest dog, aged 22
TAYLORS, SOUTH CAROLINA: The world's oldest dog, Pebbles, died on October 4—just five months ahead of turning 23. The adorable Toy Fox Terrier was born on March 28, 2000, and died at her South Carolina home with her owners Bobby and Julie Gregory at her side, according to the Guinness Book of Records.
Pebbles, a native of Long Island, New York, was named the world's oldest dog not long after TobyKeith was given the honor by the organization. When TobyKeith made headlines, Pebbles' owners learned that their dog was actually older than the chihuahua. "Bobby was sitting on the couch and friends and family started texting and calling about a story they saw about a 21-year-old dog getting the record," Julie told Guinness World Records. "When I saw TobyKeith's story all over the news, I applied."
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Julie and Bobby, the owners, disclosed to the organization that they first had their hearts set on a larger breed while they were searching for a dog. Their search, however, came to an end when Pebbles caught their gaze.
Pebbles quickly established herself as the head of the household after giving birth to 32 puppies over the course of three litters with her partner Rocky, a Toy Fox Terrier who died in 2017 at the age of 16. Julie and Bobby disclosed that the dog was quite active and lived most of her life in Taylors, South Carolina in a news statement announcing her passing.
The couple said, "She spent her days enjoying country music and being loved. She enjoyed trying new foods, she was pampered, and most of all she was loved. Pebbles was not just another dog, she had her own way about her, and her own personality."
"She was a once in a lifetime companion, and it was an honor to have had that blessing to have her as a pet, and family member. There was no one who met Pebbles who didn't love her," the couple concluded. Pebbles' admirers were deeply affected by the news, and they expressed their sorrow in their heartfelt comments on her Instagram page.
One person commented, "I'm so sorry for your loss. I know Pebbles was such a tremendous part of the family. My deepest condolences and sympathies 🙏🏻." Another person commented, "Rest in peace Pebbles. You will always be in our heart."
"Rest In Peace little Angel such a wonderful little baby wish I could have met her," a third person commented. "O my heart hurts seeing this update. Sending prayers 🙏🏻❤️" another individual chimed in.
