A TEACHER had to carry a Dachshund in his arms from Benfleet to Leigh following a brutal and deadly dog attack.

Family pet Poppy was savaged by a Staffie type dog between the towns.

54-year-old Nick Knowland was walking with his teenage daughter Daisy, wife Mia and father-in-law when their beloved Poppy, also known as a sausage dog, was set upon.

He said: “We had sat down and a couple came towards us with their dog.

“I am normally so vigilant.

“It was on an extendable lead and it just came over and attacked our dog.

“I was in such a state I didn’t get the couple’s details.

“This dog was so strong and was just pure muscle.

“I could not believe it, within a matter of seconds it attacked my dog’s throat.

“I was trying so hard to get its jaws off, but I couldn’t.

“I then had to walk carrying my dog to the Vets4Pets in Leigh - that was a long walk.”

After the attack he tried to usher a distraught Daisy and Mia away.

He said: “There was lots of screaming, crying and tears.

“The dog that attacked mine was just so strong- I have never seen anything like it.

“I was carrying her to the vets and she died in my arms.

“I just want people to be more vigilant and aware, it was the speed and muscle of the animal.

“Dogs are a big member of the family and are like children sometimes.”

The attack happened the day before Daisy was due to collect her GCSE results and Mr Knowland admitted, despite her good results, it spoilt that special day for her also.

Mr Knowland said it has left an empty feeling in the family home.

The teacher said the pet is still at the vets and they are waiting for the ashes to be returned.

He said: “We are still grieving terribly and luckily have time before we go back to school.

“We’re still very emotional, but you have to carry on.

“The vets have been amazing. We sent them an email to thank them for being so sensitive.

“They are incredible people and I have to take my hat off to them for everything they have done for us.

“We just want to spread the word and get it out there about being careful.”

The attack took place on Wednesday, August 22.

The owners of the dog have not been traced.