Elderly JD may be top dog

Is JD the oldest dog in Dunedin, perhaps Otago, or maybe even New Zealand?

In his 19 years, the golden retriever/"some black dog" cross has worked on building sites, lived in Sydney, suffered the indignity of a full-body shave, survived cancer and has watched his human family grow from one to four.

JD's owner, David McNeill, credits his longevity to love and fitness.

"Right from day one, he's always been a mate. He's part of the family."

Gardens Vet Clinic veterinarian Russell Brown said it was "extremely rare" for a dog to live to such an age. MORE and to see a picture of the dog >>