Papillon Dwarf Spaniel Lazare Dies at 30 in France

A Papillon dwarf spaniel believed to have been the world's oldest dog has died in southeastern France at the age of 30 years and five months. The dog, named Lazare, passed away on Thursday, just weeks after being adopted by a new owner following the death of his lifelong companion.

Lazare was born on December 4, 1995. He spent nearly three decades with his original owner before being found next to her body after she died, according to his subsequent adopter. The elderly dog was then taken to a charity shelter.

There, Ophelie Boudol, a 29-year-old single mother, met Lazare last month while looking for a pet for her mother. She instead formed an immediate bond with the spaniel and decided to bring him home to live with her nine-year-old son and two cats in the town of Villy-le-Pelloux. Boudol affectionately called him "our little grandpa baby."

Despite his advanced age, which brought significant health challenges, Lazare was described as having a gentle and spirited personality. He wore nappies, had lost both his sight and hearing, and slept for most of the day. Boudol said earlier this week that he had an endearing personality.

Lazare died only weeks after the adoption. Boudol said...