A Chihuahua-fox terrier cross named Shyla has taken a shine to a litter of seven kittens, treating them as her own – despite the fact they are cats and she is a dog.
It’s tiring work being a mum of seven...especially if your babies are a different species.
Shyla’s owner - vet Angela McFall says it was love at first sight for the dog.
“She was pretty much instantly in love....she’s got her babies and sits there cleaning their bottoms,” says Ms McFall.
When Shyla came on heat she had what’s known as a ‘phantom pregnancy’ and started lactating.
Ms McHall heard about the abandoned litter and thought she would see if Shyla took to them.
She says it was a match made in heaven and she suspects that Shyla actually prefers cats to dogs.
If you'd like to adopt one of the kittens or 'FOXYHUAHUA KITUPPIES' please email ferrymead@petsnvets.co.nz