Mechanical defect puts dog in the driver’s seat

Cameras catch chihuahua taking a quick cruise

SLIDELL, La. (KYMA, KSWT, KECY/NBC News) - It was anything but a joy ride for a pint-sized pup and its owner when it accidentally took a quick cruise in the family SUV.

The chihuahua's owners were filling up at a gas station in Slidell, Louisiana, when the little dog accidentally put the SUV into reverse.

Security cameras show the SUV slowly rolling backwards across a four-lane highway. The shocked owner could do nothing but chase it.

The vehicle finally came to rest without incident at a gas station across the roadway. Police say it's a miracle there wasn't an accident.

The dog's master did get slightly hurt trying to chase down her vehicle.

Police say the SUV actually had a mechanical issue that allowed the gears to shift without the brakes being pressed.