Sparky is a classy lady and no stranger to a cruise on the open road. For around nine years, since she was a pup, the Paeroa k9 cutie has accompanied owner Terry Walsh on many rides on the back of his motorcycle. October 11 was no exception, when the pup and her owner went for a cruise to downtown Paeroa to get some food. Sparky sits in a buddy rider seat on a cushion, harnessed in and sporting a pair of pink rider goggles because, after all, she is a classy k9 who rides in style. Terry takes Sparky’s eyewear off, gives her a few reassuring pats and says he’ll be back out of the store in a minute.
He’s taken Sparky on plenty of roadies through the Karangahake Gorge, around Paeroa and a few times to the big city. Passersby ask to stop and take photos of Sparky before heading off on their errands. She was used to all the attention, Terry said, and quite happy with people fussing over her. One thing is for sure, it’s not everyday people get to spot a pooch passenger princess out and about on a motorcycle, but it is in Paeroa.
By DAVIDDA HIKATANGATA
