March 6, 2008

DEVON, UK – It’s a heartwarming story about the paternal bond that has formed between two unlikely animals in Britain.

It all started just hours after a litter of three baby goats was born at a wildlife center. The mother abandoned the runt to focus her care on the two stronger kids.

That’s when staff member Elizabeth Tozer stepped in and began hand-rearing the runt, named Lilly.

But Tozer’s boxer, Billy, immediately took the infant in under his wing and even sleeps with the goat.

According to Tozer, Billy is inseparable from Lilly and even cleans the goat’s mouth after she feeds.

Both animals are residents at the Pennywell Farm, and their unique bond has drawn quite a fan following over the last month.

The staff has a keen interest in watching how the relationship continues to develop.

If you’d like to comment and see what others have to say, go to the news section of zootoo.com. Send us story ideas by e-mailing or calling us.