The 9-year-old boxer, who belongs to Brad and Crystal Williams of Normal, earned the title of "longest tongue on a living dog" based on the results of measurements completed before a teeth cleaning on June 15 at Kruger Animal Hospital in Bloomington. Journalists from The Pantagraph also observed the process.
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The most recent recordholder, Zoey Williams of Metairie, Louisiana, earned the title with a 5-inch tongue. While Rocky's number came in higher earlier this month, the record could not be considered official until verified by Guinness.
On Monday, the world records website displayed a photo of Rocky - tongue lolling haphazardly, eyes bright with excitement - and his stats: 5.46 inches, or 13.883 centimeters.
"It's pretty exciting, and he's just a great dog," Crystal Williams said Monday, reacting to the news. "He didn't have to do anything special; he just had to be himself.
"We're just the lucky ones that got to care for this cool dog, and now he's a recordholder," she said, adding: "It's pretty cool to be a part of Guinness now."
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While Rocky's great genes clinched the victory, his owners undertook a somewhat complex process to get him in the game. It involves an online application and variety of materials, including a cover letter and statements from a steward, witness and timekeeper.
Additionally, the couple had to line up people up to fulfill various witness and medical roles and supply their credentials to Guinness.
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