A pet owner is seeking justice after claiming her dog died after being set upon by two Staffordshire bull terriers in a vicious attack.

Kelly Smith is searching for answers after her father Bob, 60, was walking her dogs in Stanhope, Ashford, when the staffies allegedly attacked and killed the six-year-old Chihuahua-cross called Ruby.

It happened in woodland next to the playing field near the junction with Knoll Lane and Stanhope Road.

Kelly has since set up a Facebook page in an attempt to get justice for her beloved pooch.

"My dad let Ruby and Ruby's mum Pearl off the lead and they ran over to the woods," the 33-year-old said.

"Two staffies were in the woods and as soon as she entered they grabbed hold of her.

"It happened in an instant - my dad said he heard one yelp and she was gone."

The mum-of-three said the owner of the staffies attempted to stop the attack by "kicking and punching" their dogs but the Chihuahua died at the scene.

The incident happened at about 2.30pm on Saturday.

She added: "My dad couldn't do anything because he had the other dog and they could have done the same to her.

"My dad and Ruby were very close. My other dog Pearl is hardly eating and hasn't left her bed.

"It happened in an instant - my dad said he heard one yelp and she was gone"... Kelly Smith

"I've left it with the police now. I've got a couple of witnesses as a couple of children saw it happen."

A police spokesman said the staffies were described as predominately white with black patches.

The owner was described as a white man, 5ft 10 to 6ft tall with a stocky build and aged in his 30s or 40s.

He had short dark hair and was wearing casual clothing and walking boots.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or recognises the description of the man or dogs is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/18446/19.