AN American bulldog which mauled a baby to death in Leeds only let go when another family pet went to protect the boy, a neighbour said.
Liam Eames was grabbed on the neck by the powerful dog and thrown around like a doll, according to witnesses.
Neighbour Peter Franquernie-Derham, 40, said he went to help the family after hearing screams.
Liam's family had been enjoying the summer sunshine at their home in Woodnook Road, Tinshill, on Monday afternoon when the tragedy occurred.
The baby's mother Jackie tried desperately to save her son but was powerless to release him from the dog's jaws.
Liam, who only turned one a fortnight ago, bled profusely from his injuries and died at Leeds General Infirmary.
A West Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said the American bulldog was destroyed and the other family pet re-homed.
The Leeds Coroner is due to open an inquest into the death today.
The RSPCA warned the attack could have been triggered by the soaring temperatures.
