They are usually seen as sworn enemies, but for scores of homeless kittens in Wolverhampton there’s only one place to turn for a cuddle – Alfie the lovable border collie.

The two-year-old dog has become a foster mum for the dozens of kittens his owner Karen Cross, of Codsall, cares for on behalf of Kats Cradle.

Founder of the rescue group Debbie Brookes said: “Alfie is such a star. He washes the kittens, plays with them and lies with them.

“I’ve had Kats Cradle for five years now and have never seen anything like this before.

“He always gets very excited when I bring some new kittens around and he befriends each and every batch.”

Alfie’s role as mum sees him wash the kittens who have been separated from their mothers and protect and play with them.

Debbie said: “It’s very unusual to have a male dog who is so maternal.”

Read the full story in the Express & Star. They are usually seen as sworn enemies, but for scores of homeless kittens in Wolverhampton there’s only one place to turn for a cuddle – Alfie the lovable border collie.

The two-year-old dog has become a foster mum for the dozens of kittens his owner Karen Cross, of Codsall, cares for on behalf of Kats Cradle.

Founder of the rescue group Debbie Brookes said: “Alfie is such a star. He washes the kittens, plays with them and lies with them.

“I’ve had Kats Cradle for five years now and have never seen anything like this before.

“He always gets very excited when I bring some new kittens around and he befriends each and every batch.”

Alfie’s role as mum sees him wash the kittens who have been separated from their mothers and protect and play with them.

Debbie said: “It’s very unusual to have a male dog who is so maternal.”At first, the kittens can be quite wary of Alfie because many of them have never seen a dog before, but after 10 minutes they’re the best of friends and he’s busy following them around.

“He really does love them and Karen should be very proud of him.”

Kats Cradle is based in Coven and home to scores of unwanted cats and kittens.

Miss Brookes added: “We’re always looking for animal-lovers who would be willing to rehouse a cat.”

Call 01902 791794 for more information.