"She is still so young that she needs hand-feeding every two hours and spends much of her day in the Battersea clinic office," the shelter said. "This is where she met her new best friend, Barney."
The shelter showed off the unusual pair as the friendly dog comforted the rowdy kitten that swiped at its nose and paws before settling down.
"The three-year-old Labrador has taken his role of kitten-sitting very seriously - snuggling with Ava, playing with her, and monitoring her every move around the office to make sure she's safe," the shelter said. "He's a real top dog!"
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home said Ava has already found a new home and Barney was adopted years ago but still likes to visit the shelter to help out.
