With deep sorrow, I must inform you that Miss Augie has departed from this world. Augie, in her unique manner, conveyed to me that her fragile body could no longer endure, expressing her exhaustion and granting permission to release her from her suffering. Welcoming her at the Rainbow Bridge, just as he had done on Earth, was Sherman, who had left us in January, enthusiastically wiggling his body, wagging his tail, and showering her face with affectionate licks,” Jennifer revealed, filled with a mix of grief and serenity.
Jennifer and Steve, a couple with a strong passion for caring for aging Golden Retrievers, have had the privilege of looking after numerous dogs throughout the years. They have witnessed their beloved companions live anywhere from 5 to 14 years, each one leaving an indelible mark on their hearts. However, Augie, their most recent furry companion, holds a special place in their hearts. Unlike their previous dogs, Augie celebrated her 20th birthday on April 24th, 2020, a truly remarkable milestone. The news of her longevity spread like wildfire when GoldHeart Golden Retriever Rescue declared her the oldest known Golden Retriever in history.
Under normal circumstances, most Golden Retrievers have an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. While it is not entirely unheard of for some to surpass this timeframe, with a lucky few even reaching the age of 19, Augie’s remarkable feat of turning 20 is truly unheard of in the Golden Retriever community. It is a testament to the impeccable care and unwavering love that Jennifer, Steve, and their family have bestowed upon her throughout her life.
Augie’s unprecedented milestone serves as a gentle reminder to dog lovers around the world to cherish and cherish every moment with their furry companions. Our time with these faithful creatures is limited, and it is our duty to ensure that they are cared for and loved unconditionally while they are still with us. Augie’s incredible journey is a shining example of the joy and fulfillment that can result from a lifelong commitment to our precious pets.
Introducing Augie!
Augie has had an interesting journey, living with multiple families throughout her life. At GoldHeart Golden Retriever Rescue, she experienced the ups and downs of being adopted and returned twice. It wasn’t because of any faults of her own, though. Augie was truly a wonderful dog. But fate smiled upon her when Jennifer and Steve Hetterscheidt from Oakland, Tennessee decided to adopt her once again, this time for good. They became Augie’s forever family, giving her the love and stability she deserved.
At 14 years old, Augie was already considered quite old for a Golden Retriever. Despite her age, Jennifer and Steve were amazed by Augie’s relatively good health when they brought her home. Unfortunately, not long after her adoption, she was diagnosed with renal issues. But with the help of special supplements for her kidneys and joints, Augie has been able to improve her well-being and enjoy a better quality of life.
Augie, the lovable Golden Retriever, has been enjoying a vibrant and healthy life alongside Jennifer and Steve for an impressive six years. Despite her age, she remains as energetic and playful as any young pup, reveling in the joy of RV trips and exciting games of fetch in the great outdoors. Of course, it’s true that it takes her a little more time to rise and shine in the mornings, but once she’s up, she manages to strut her stuff with grace and poise.
It’s quite astonishing to think that Augie, now twenty years old, continues to radiate happiness and vitality. Jennifer and Steve never anticipated having her by their side for such a long time, and their hearts overflow with gratitude. To say that they adore taking care of senior Golden Retrievers would be an understatement – Augie even shares her home with three Golden Retriever siblings named Sherman, Belle, and Bruce.
Watching Augie lead an exuberant life well into her senior years is a testament to the love, care, and exceptional companionship she receives from her devoted family.
In honor of this thrilling occasion, Jennifer and Steve organized a festive celebration for the beloved Augie’s birthday. With the installation of charming decorations and a specially-made carrot cake that was safe for dogs, they made sure everything was perfect. Augie also had the opportunity to bond with her canine siblings, making it an ideal day for any pup. While the Guinness World Records typically doesn’t recognize the oldest dog of a specific breed, Augie’s family understands that she has achieved a remarkable feat, and that’s all that matters.
According to Jennifer, maintaining the well-being of their Golden Retrievers involves regular visits to the veterinarian. She shares a wonderful rapport with Augie’s vet, allowing them to address any potential health issues promptly. Indeed, Jennifer is committed to ensuring that all her furry companions enjoy long and healthy lives.
Jennifer expressed that we show our care and love for our dogs while we have them, and our affection for them persists even after they are gone. It is remarkable that Augie, at the age of 20, has surpassed her expected lifespan and continues to thrive. Augie is truly fortunate to have found a family that deeply cherishes her. Our time with our beloved canines is often limited, so it is essential to maximize it and prioritize their well-being to keep them healthy. Here’s to celebrating Augie’s birthday!
