It was an ordinary day when a woman in Arizona suddenly heard barking just outside her home. At first, she assumed it was just a neighborhood dog passing by — but something didn’t sound quite right. The barks were frantic and close, and they definitely weren’t coming from her own pets. Curious, she checked her security camera footage. To her surprise, the video showed a figure darting under her parked car but never reappearing.
Concerned, the woman hurried outside. She crouched down and looked beneath the vehicle, and what she saw stopped her in her tracks: a paw, a tail, and a dog’s foot dangling out from the engine compartment. Somehow, a dog had wedged itself deep inside the car’s undercarriage.
She immediately realized she needed professional help. Not wanting to risk hurting the animal by trying to free it herself, she called the Arizona Humane Society (AHS). Little did she know that this call would lead to one of the most unusual rescues in the organization’s history.
Rescuers Step Into the Unexpected
Within a short time, two experienced emergency animal medical technicians, Ruthie Jesus and McKenzie Dunnington, arrived on the scene. Both were seasoned rescuers, having handled countless cases of animals in strange and often dangerous situations. Still, what awaited them that day was unlike anything they had ever encountered.
“In her 10 years working for AHS’ Field Team, Ruthie Jesus stated she has seen (and personally rescued) many cats and kittens from car engines but never a full-grown dog,” explained Kelsey Dickerson, spokesperson for AHS. “While AHS has rescued a puppy stuck in a car engine before, the 49-pound Nova is very likely the first adult dog rescued from this predicament in the shelter’s history!”
Cats hiding in car engines for warmth is a fairly common occurrence, especially in colder months. But an adult, 49-pound dog crawling into such a confined and dangerous space was unprecedented. The rescuers had to think quickly but carefully — one wrong move could injure the dog or cause her to panic even more.
Fortunately, Ruthie and McKenzie’s calm demeanor and years of expertise helped guide them through the tricky situation. In just about 15 minutes, they managed to safely maneuver the pup out of the tight space.
Meet Nova: The Resilient Pup With a Big Personality
Once freed, the dog’s true nature shone immediately. The rescuers decided to name her Nova, a fitting title for a pup who made such a dramatic entrance into their lives. Though a little shaken at first, Nova’s fear quickly melted into excitement and gratitude.
The moment she realized she was free, Nova went from trembling and uncertain to bouncy, playful, and full of affection. She smothered her rescuers with kisses, as if to thank them for pulling her out of the jam she had gotten herself into.
Nova was then taken to AHS’ trauma hospital for a thorough medical evaluation. Remarkably, despite her frightening ordeal, she had only sustained minor injuries to her ears. For a dog trapped in a metal engine compartment, her outcome was incredibly lucky.
“She is an incredibly sweet, energetic, loving and playful pup who loves going on walks and getting attention from everyone she meets,” said Dickerson. “After being treated in AHS’ trauma hospital for minor wounds to her ears, Nova is now ready for her forever home at AHS’ South Mountain Campus.”
A Happy Ending and a New Beginning
Nova’s misadventure could have easily ended in tragedy. Being stuck in a hot, cramped car engine posed serious risks — from injuries caused by sharp edges to the potential danger if the car had been started. But thanks to the sharp instincts of the woman who spotted her, and the quick response of the Arizona Humane Society, Nova’s story became one of survival and second chances.
Now fully recovered, Nova is available for adoption. Her rescuers believe her quirky personality and boundless energy will make her the perfect companion for an active family. Her love for walks, her eagerness to play, and her affectionate nature ensure she won’t be waiting long before someone falls in love with her.
Nova’s rescue is also a reminder of the unpredictable situations animal welfare workers face daily — and the importance of community members acting quickly when they see an animal in distress. What started as a shocking sight beneath a car ended with a dog being given a second chance at life, safety, and love.
Though Nova may have gotten herself into trouble in a way no one had ever seen before, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Her bizarre predicament led her straight into the hands of people who will make sure she never has to fend for herself again.
