Families love to bring their pets to Cape Cod. Usually they bring dogs, but one pet-friendly cottage colony owner told me about a guest who showed up with two horses. A number of inexpensive motels on the Cape welcome dogs or set aside a few rooms for guests who bring their dog. Some of these charge a pet fee.
The most deluxe pet accommodations in the region are surely the Woof Cottages, also known as the Wharf Cottages, at Nantucket's The Cottages at the Boat Basin (tel. 866/838-9253; www.thecottagesnantucket.com). You can stay with your dog or cat in specially designated units that come with plush pet beds, toys, and treats, plus a bandanna to make your dog as stylish as a Nantucket native.
In Provincetown, perhaps the Cape's dog-friendliest community, dozens of people walk their dogs down Commercial Street every day. Many motels allow pets, and dogs are welcome at several outdoor cafes.
Every town has good hiking trails where people exercise their dogs -- sometimes off-leash, even though the law forbids it. Most towns don't permit dogs on the beach in peak daytime hours and/or in summer, but you can take your dog onto many beaches in early morning and evening and/or off season. Check with the local chamber of commerce for the local rules.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
