A dog owner had to stab his pet to death after it attacked a toddler.

It happened outside a flat in Wallis Park, Northfleet, at around 3pm yesterday.

Witnesses told the Gravesend Messenger the dog attacked the boy's leg and would not let go.

When his relatives saw what was happening they started stabbing the dog. One person claimed the dog only let go when it had died.

The boy was rushed to Darent Valley Hospital and has now been transferred to a London Hospital. He underwent surgery last night and his family are currently at his bedside.

Police described his injuries as a severe bite and said the breed of dog involved is believed to be a Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

They confirmed the dog is no longer alive. The boy's condition is described as stable.