A Jack Russell has been left needing surgery after being attacked by two “large fluffy dogs” while out on a walk.

Jacko came to Guardian Angels Dog Rescue three weeks ago after his elderly owner passed away and was given a foster placement in Chartham, near Canterbury.

But while out with his now-traumatised temporary owner in the local woods last week, Jacko was approached by the two dogs, who were reportedly running loose.

Charity founder Christine Recton told KentOnline: “He was on an extending lead and all of a sudden two off-lead big fluffy dogs - his fosterer wasn’t sure if they were German shepherds or what - came up and attacked him.

“All she could see was one dog grab him by the neck and one by the legs like they were trying to pull him apart.

“She just grabbed little Jacko. I don’t know how she managed to get the dogs off, she just ran to the car and took him to the vet.

“I met her there and his leg was hanging off.

“She did not see an owner, but she didn’t look around, she just ran.”

Ms Recton says Jacko could have lost the limb in the attack, but thankfully, vets were able to save it.

She added: “I think given 10 more minutes he would have passed away, but he was a brave boy and has pulled through.

“We are just relieved he is alive.”

The owners of the large fluffy dogs have not yet been located.

Jacko went under the knife on Tuesday and now has bolts and plates holding the leg together.

The dog has since come home to recover.

Guardian Angels, founded in 2014, is now appealing for donations to pay for Jacko’s expensive vet bills and impending surgery.

The operation alone costs more than £3000, and with medicine and overnight charges, the total is expected to reach about £5,500.

Anyone who would like to donate can visit https://guardianangelsdogrescue.co.uk

Local business The Crafty Ark raised £615 after holding a raffle to pay for the medical bills.