Fall River Man and His Motorcycle-Riding Dog Spread Joy on Street

Along the busy roads of the SouthCoast, a sight has been turning heads and warming hearts.

Peter Rosa Janeiro, a 31-year-old Fall River man, has been making waves with his unorthodox motorcycle companion: Lilo, a 1-and-a-half-year-old Golden Irish dog weighing in at a hefty 70 to 80 pounds.

Janeiro adopted a smaller Lilo at 3 months old from a city clinic. Instantly bonding with her, Janeiro noticed Lilo's ease with a harness, sparking an idea that soon captured the attention of many. He invested in a specially designed dog backpack carrier, allowing Lilo to comfortably accompany him on his motorcycle adventures.

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Here was a way to ride the mean streets without the added expense of a traditional sidecar. Starting with a bicycle baby carrier that fit just right, Janeiro later upgraded to the backpack, which Lilo eagerly anticipates hopping into for adventures. Equipped with her own set of goggles, Lilo settles into her backpack like a pro, ready to hit the road.

On any given Thursday through Saturday, you can find Janeiro and Lilo at Judge Roy Bean Saloon in Bristol, Rhode Island, where Janeiro works as a bouncer and entertains patrons with his violin during the summer.

The duo frequents other places including the Roger Williams University campus, Battleship Cove and Colt State Park, where Lilo enjoys her walks and exploration.

Courtesy Peter Rosa Janeiro

Their presence on the streets hasn't gone unnoticed. People often pause to capture photos of the pair. However, Janeiro is quick to remind admirers that carrying around a dog while riding a motorcycle does not come without its challenges and should only be attempted by experienced riders.

Communication between Janeiro and Lilo is key to their success. They rely on non-verbal hand signals, which Lilo responds to with remarkable understanding. Their bond runs deep, with Lilo serving as not just a companion but a source of comfort and healing.

Janeiro's journey with dogs hasn't always been smooth. Four years ago, he was attacked by a larger dog, resulting in severe injuries. Instead of letting fear dictate his relationship with canines, Janeiro chose to give Lilo a chance, and it turned out to be an extraordinary decision.

Lilo taught Janeiro how to love again, instilling in him a newfound appreciation for the bond between humans and pet dogs.

For Janeiro, Lilo is more than a pet. She's a lifeline, a constant source of joy and a reminder of the power of love and companionship. Now, together, they're spreading happiness and bringing people together, even in the unlikeliest of places.

"They're your whole life, but in reality, you're their whole life," Janeiro said of our four-legged friends. "Dogs are a lot of responsibility. You've got to be there for them as much as you can. You learn a lot about yourself with a dog."

Janeiro's and Lilo's journey is not just about riding — it's about embracing life's twists and turns together, one joyous ride at a time.