Fred and his Flock: Dog Adopts 15 Motherless Ducklings and They All Love to Swim Together!

A sweet and nurturing 11-year-old Labrador named Fred has taken on many roles in his “old age,” but becoming a parent to the most adorable yet unconventional modern family of 15 abandoned ducklings has been his best adventure yet!

Fred and his flock live at the picturesque Mountfitchet Castle in Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex in the United Kingdom. With a rich history from the Iron Age, Mountfitchet Castle housed Romans, Saxons, and Vikings during its time and in 1066, William the Conqueror led his forces to attack the settlement. Today, it’s a peaceful abode where Fred and his flock soak up the sun, nap, swim and spend quality time together.

While roaming the beautiful castle’s grounds, Fred carries his flock on his back and even on top of his head! In true Labrador fashion, Fred likes to swim. When he goes for a dip, the flock follows him into the water! How precious! Last year, Fred and his first flock of nine became social media sensations.

Recently, Fred adopted an additional six motherless ducklings who were abandoned at the castle. In both cases, when the precious little ducklings hatched, their mother disappeared. That’s when the castle’s owners took them in and Fred stepped up again. “We brought the ducklings into the house as they are too young to fend for themselves, and Fred just took them under his paw – rather than his wing,” said owner Jeremy Goldsmith. “He’s got a lovely nature and has grown up around rescued animals.”