I should be so excited about collecting my new pup but....

This incident is a rare occurrence, please don't let it spoil the enjoyment of your pup.
Sorry Whitewave but I disagree with your advice, picking the pup up will only result in you too being attacked, let the pup go, chances are it will outrun its predators.

Oh how lovely for you to be collecting your new pup next week. Please don't let this tragic story put you off . You can keep her on a very long lead so let her explore but you still have control of her. I hope to get a pup in the spring and would love to see a picture of yours and updates of how you both are getting on.

Thanks all. Yes I will go slowly on the walkies aspect until she's bigger. My Westie was a rescue and five months old when we got her. I've never had such a young pup before so its a whole new ball game for me so I suppose I'm being overprotective....

Of course you want to keep your pup safe. The good news is that puppies should not have very long walks for a few months in order that their bones and muscles grew and strengthen without strain. So little walks are the way to go to begin with. I kept puppy on the lead all the time unless I was happy that it was safe. Puppy classes are invaluable as they can get the vital socialisation they needs and you can ask questions etc.

Most people stick to the rule that if someone is walking towards you with a dog on the lead , it is good manners to put yours on as well, because their dog may be timid or aggressive or defensive etc. Of course you will always get the not so brights who are clueless, I wo Lydia personally pick pup up if I was really concerned.

Hope that helps and what a lovely busy Tim e you are going to have with your friend for life

No. It's such a horrible horrible thing to do. The image would stick in your head. It's understandable.
However, I'm sure you'll have a great time with your new little friend. Maybe be careful about where you go with him or her and when?
Good luck. Don't let these cruel bastards (no other word for them) affect you.

No Smurf , that poor child was only twelve and dog attacks like that are not a daily happening. Enjoy walks with your new best friend , I envy you x