Bailey is finally a teenager.
Most parents look towards the teenage years with some trepidation, expecting the real trouble to start and outside influences to become stronger as their little one struggles to make their way in the world.
But it’s different when you’re a 13-year-old dog. You’re not really worried about peer pressure. And while your body is changing, that’s considered a “senior” age for any breed.
Luckily, one thing that never changes for Bailey is the depth of his appreciation when his family comes together to celebrate yet another turn around the sun.
That’s right, Bailey has had 13 epic birthday parties!
Look at him – he’s touched that his family remembered and took the time out yet again.
As far as his mom Katie D’Souza is concerned, Bailey completely understands the gesture.
And how could he not? This dog gets a heck of a throwdown from his family each year! There’s cake, guests, gifts, hats, decor…it’s clearly marked as a special day and Bailey knows he’s at the center of everyone’s attention.
This is one dearly loved doggo!
“We celebrate his birthday every year – he is family and his life should be celebrated,” D’Souza said to one of the pup’s many well-wishers.
Bailey’s sweet birthday photos were shared all around the Internet earlier this year after his sweet February birthday. (Some photos were posted on the 4th and others on the 5th, so if you’re already shopping for Bailey’s 14th birthday, we don’t have an exact date for you.)
And D’Souza wasn’t kidding when she said this is a regular occurrence – there are plenty of photos from Bailey’s previous parties online.
His family has never been one to forgo the birthday hats. Bailey even seems not to mind – but perhaps that’s because he knows the hat means there will be cake and gifts.
We can understand completely the desire to celebrate a furry member of the family.
What might seem ridiculous to some people is simply a sincere profession of love and recognition. And just like any other birthday, it’s an excuse to get together with family, have some fun, and put a positive spin on the day.
And who wouldn’t want to celebrate another year of love and affection from this cutie?
In fact, now we’re just kind of bummed we weren’t invited.
These parties look pretty great!
Judging from the photos, we’re guessing that the dog’s parents, siblings, and even grandparents were there this year – and every last one of them looked happy to celebrate the senior dog.
Bailey even looked like he was joining in the singing at one point – but he was also ready to dig into that cake!
“He brings us so much joy and we love him heaps!” D’Souza exclaimed as she posted the photos.
And we can see it. Bailey looks like he has a happy life and is surrounded by lots of love and attention.
We should all be so lucky to have it as good as this little guy!
D’Souza has expressed surprise on her Facebook page that their family tradition has gone viral and that people all over the world now know Bailey.
Never underestimate people’s willingness to see a heartwarming dog story!
Happy belated birthday, Bailey, and we wish you many more!
Be sure to scroll down below to see the sweet video of Bailey’s family singing to him on his 13th birthday earlier this year.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
H/t Bored Panda
