Joe Kahlo
August AKA Augie, the golden retriever turned a whopping 20 years old last year, making her the worlds oldest golden retriever!
She’s reached almost double the average life expectancy of her breed, simply amazing!
The average life expectancy for Golden Retrievers is 10 to 12 years, but Goldheart Golden Retrievers Rescue in Tennessee have confirmed she’d almost doubled that.
Augie – lives in Oakland, Tenessee and was adopted by her owners when she was 14.
Along with some photos of Augie looking absolutely adorable on her special day, staff wrote: “At 20 years old, she’s just about doubled the expected lifespan for golden retrievers and she’s still kicking.
“She’s lived so long largely because she’s got great genetics, but also her owner, Jennifer, has done a great job of taking care of her and ensuring that they have a good relationship with Augie’s vet.”
“There are many accounts of 17 or 18-year-old goldens, and even a few stories about 19-year-old goldens, but Augie is the first golden retriever to ever reach the big two-oh.”
Despite some kidney problems and shakiness in her gate, she’s still perky in her record-setting old age, Jennifer Hetterscheidt tells CNN.
“She’ll stumble now and then but as long as she can get a grip where she is, she can get up,” says Hetterscheidt.
“Even though she’s easy to care for, we watch her like a hawk every moment that we’re awake.”
August celebrated her 20th birthday with her owners, as well as a special cake and a big banner.
And while most people who want dogs choose to look after puppies, Jennifer said she and Steve, who have toured the US in their RV with Augie.
“We care for them as long as we have them, and love them forever,” said the couple, who have also adopted three retriever siblings to help keep Augie company.
