For her father’s 100th birthday, Alison Moore came up with something truly special: More than 200 dogs made the elderly birthday celebrant’s day unforgettable.

For his 100th birthday, Dr. Robert Moore from San Jose, California, had a humble wish: he wanted to pet dogs. To fulfill her father’s wish and provide him with an unforgettable experience, Alison Moore asked through various neighborhood groups if a dog parade could be organized for Robert.

The heartwarming reason behind it: Moore had been a passionate dog lover his entire life.

“He loves, loves, loves dogs,” says Alison Moore about her father, who celebrated his special birthday on June 14.

“Every dog he sees, he wants to pet. He’s been like this his whole life.”

And lo and behold: the plan was promptly put into action, and on the appointed day, more than 200 people arrived with their sometimes costumed four-legged friends at Dr. Moore’s home.

Dog Parade Exceeds All Expectations

When Alison Moore asked around the neighborhood if as many dogs as possible could come to congratulate Robert Moore, she expected 20, at most 30, dogs, she told The Washington Post. She had not expected such a multitude of joyful furry friends. More than 200 dogs ultimately wanted to be petted by the birthday honoree.

Dr. Robert Moore was “Totally Overwhelmed”

Former dean of San Jose University, Dr. Robert Moore, used to have dogs himself. Today, his children and grandchildren visit him in the assisted living community, either bringing their own dogs or borrowing dogs from friends to cheer up Robert Moore.

For his milestone birthday, Caroline Moore, a granddaughter of Robert Moore, also came from New York City.

“We were all in disbelief,” she told The Washington Post. “No one could stop smiling,” said Caroline. “So many strangers came. They not only came but also made cards and posters and brought him muffins. It was the most heartwarming thing ever.” Millie, the dog of Moore’s daughter Alison, was, of course, part of the grand parade.

Big Day for Birthday Boy and Neighborhood

Her father was visibly moved, reveals his daughter to the newspaper: “He was so overwhelmed. He was just so sweet, talking to the kids, petting all the dogs, saying their names. It was so much fun.” But not only the birthday boy experienced an unforgettable day; the neighborhood also rejoiced in the successful surprise.

Successful Party for the 100-Year-Old Birthday Boy

For her grandfather, the dog party was a special experience, Caroline said. While he petted every one of the 200 dogs present, he smiled “from ear to ear.” And Robert Moore himself commented on his animal surprise:

“It was a very special birthday parade because there were so many different dog breeds,” he said. The four-legged friends seemed to reciprocally know how much Moore loves dogs, daughter Alison added.

“The dogs know he’s a dog person.” The parade participants generously showered him with kisses and tail wags. “It was just so sweet,” Alison Moore summarizes. “My dear father deserves it.” She is sure that he will never forget this day. He made sure to have petted each of the attending dogs at least once.