The picture shows an unfledged duck walking with its 12-year-old owner Tong Tong, the Guangzhou Daily reported on January 14.

The duck, named "Ya Ya", was found and saved by Tong Tong's uncle one day about two months ago while it was being chased by a big rat along Shahe Road in Guangzhou. He sent the duck to his nephew Tong Tong because he's locally famous for his passionate love of stray animals.

"My home is like a collecting post for stray animals," said Tong Tong. "Neighbors entrust their pets to my care when they go out."

"My duck Ya Ya is smart and we're always together. The duck walks with me to school everyday," said Tong Tong.

(China.org.cn by Li Jingrong January 14, 2008)