JACK Russell Poppy is clinging to life after she was savaged by a staffordshire bull terrier and needed 70 stitches.

Witnesses said Poppy was thrown about “like a paper bag” by the other dog which jumped out of a van window in the Co-op car park in Faversham.

Poppy’s owner, 40-year-old Stephen Dinnadge, of Brents Hill, said it was touch and go for the eight-year-old pet who received emergency treatment at Barton Veterinary Hospital in Canterbury.

“The vet said the attack punctured the muscles in her stomach and could affect her bowels which could kill her.

“I was shocked by what happened but she’s ever such a good dog. She hasn’t whimpered once.”

Mr Dinnadge is employed as a lorry driver by Faversham Laundry. His partner, Shirley Williams, was with Poppy when the attack happened. The treatment has cost the couple £500.

Mr Dinnadge said he had reported the attack to the police and he was hoping CCTV cameras would help the investigation.