A woman was seriously injured after being mauled by a dog in High Wycombe on Saturday, in an attack which claimed the life of her pet Chihuahua.

A 42-year-old woman was walking her long-haired Chihuahua in Buckingham Drive at about 7.45am, when a large brown mastif ran towards them.

The larger dog attacked and killed the smaller pet and caused serious injuries to the woman’s right hand and left arm.

She was taken to Wexham Park Hospital after suffering puncture wounds to her right hand and a large deep laceration to her left forearm.

The mastif ran away into a property in nearby Tilling Crescent after the attack.

Thames Valley Police executed a warrant under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 at a property in Tilling Crescent at about 8pm on Saturday A dog was seized during the warrant.

Investigating officer, PC Bushra Sheikh of the neighbourhood team based at High Wycombe police station, said: “I would like to reassure local residents that this traumatic incident is being thoroughly investigated.

“Police officers executed a warrant under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 at a property in Tilling Crescent and a dog was seized.

“I would appeal to any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to please, or anyone with any information about the incident to call the force via 101.”

If you don't want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.