SINGLETON early childhood teacher Lorelei Wainiqolo "fell apart" when she pulled over after hearing a yelp coming from inside her car engine.
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Around 22 kilometres into the journey from Singleton, she pulled over to investigate and was horrified to find a small white paw hanging from the undercarriage.
"I was completely shattered. I thought he was dead," she said. "I think the worst thing was I'd driven that far without realising what had happened."
Ms Wainiqolo was travelling the 25 minutes from her home in Singleton along the Hunter Expressway, reaching speeds of up to 100-110 kilometres per hour, before she realised that their 18-month-old Jack Russel pup, Diesel, was trapped inside.
A NSW Fire and Rescue crew from Branxton rushed to help but grew concerned when Diesel could no longer be heard.
"When we managed to get underneath the car we were relieved to see the dog was alive and in good spirits," firefighter Brad Jenner said.
Mr Jenner said the rescue mission was straightforward and it took them roughly half an hour to free the puppy through the wheel arch.
Diesel was checked over by one of the attending firefighters, who is also a qualified emergency vet nurse, and escaped with only a minor burn.
"He was very lucky to be located on the bash plate underneath the car, which protects the engine from uneven surfaces on the road," Mr Jenner said.
"It's common to get calls about cats getting stuck in the car engine base but not dogs. That's something I haven't heard of before."
Ms Wainiqolo said Diesel was so happy to see everyone, "he's larger than life, he loves everybody."
"He's a beloved family pet but also can be very naughty and cheeky."
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