you're going to need to take your tissues out as you learn about how Birdie, a one year old labrador unexpectedly became a father figure to seven adorable kittens. At just two weeks old. The litter was found on the side of the road with no mom in sight, unable to fend for themselves. The battersea dogs and cats home took them in to make sure they got the proper care they needed. And boy did they ask. W. Nss nurse Rachel volunteered to look after them with her dog. Birdie also a rescue. To her surprise, Birdie became a father to the kittens. Very patient nurturing, says Rachel. These kittens have certainly been a handful from the early days when they needed bottle feeding around the clock to when they first discovered the joys of climbing. Not only has Birdie helped the kittens become confident, sociable little cats, he's also kept me entertained. Usually kittens stay close to their moms for around eight weeks to feed and learn survival skills. A motherless kitten can be taken in by a shelter until they're old enough to fend for themselves. Then they find them a permanent new home regarding Birdie. Well, he's just happy to help, says Rachel as a former battersea resident himself, there's something particularly touching about seeing a rescue pet now helping to rescue other animals in need. Okay, Bring in the tissues. Yeah.