Gone to the Dogs

American culture has always been bound to dogs, but in the past two generations we’ve taken man’s (and woman’s) best friend to new heights. Dogs are now often as essential in the family equation as children might be. There’s a place for them in the family portrait, inclusion in vacations and road trips, a part in the wedding party or baby shower, a car seat for them in the family vehicle, on the bike, on the hike, in the boat and even on the plane! 

Some of today’s canine companions have wardrobes and bathtubs, beds and blankets. There are toys in Christmas stockings, spa days and play dates. They’re indulged with groomers and stylists, hairstyles and pedicures. Collars of every color along with gems or pearls, spikes or studs, adorn them. Dogs are christened with human names as commonly as human beings are—you could encounter a Joey, Harry, Matilda or Madeline—even Moses and Mary. They sport cozy sweaters, pajamas, booties, hoodies, and hats. Many pups have their own Facebook or Instagram accounts with followers galore! And some even sing, dance, skateboard, surf, or skydive. 

Dogs are treated to all manners of snacks, dinners, and desserts. There are wellness products like tinctures, lotions, skin care, and oils. And of course, let’s not forget doggy daycare programs, along with dog-walkers and dog-sitters. 

The breeds of today’s dogs stretch way beyond mutts to Doodles and Pomskys. Cockapoos, Morkies, Chiweenies, Puggles, Chugs, Beaglier, and Cavachons are some of the popular crossbreeds. Some of these designer dogs’ purchase or adoption prices widen the eyes as much and as far as the credit card can stretch. 

Indeed, no dog is left behind in our culture these days, even when it comes to vacations. “Dog friendly” is a big draw for a vacation venue, and many resorts and destinations offer accommodations to bring that best friend along.

Cape Island has its fair share of those accommodations, so let’s visit a few. 

Blue Fish Motel

601 Madison Avenue 

This place offers the nostalgic feel of the iconic 50s-style motel. Rooms line up in a row side by side—no stairs or elevators, balconies or vistas, making it easy to navigate. And four rooms out of 12 at this motel are styled and suited to bring your furry friend with you, and easy to keep clean for guests. Every minute counts (and costs) while on vacation and if people bring their pets, they want them to be as comfortable as they are and included in just about every facet of their trip. 

Owner Franco Beraducci continued with the dog friendly open-door policy from the previous owners. Manager Lena Miller attests to the demand that Fido has a spot in the vacation plans. “It’s a very pet-centered society these days,” Lena said. “People want to bring their beloved companions along with them. And they also want a high-quality stay as well. Our rooms are meticulous. We go above and beyond cleanliness not just with our dog-friendly rooms but all 12 of them. We have many guests that have been with us for years. They often say their dog knows when they’re heading for the shore. The scent of suntan lotion and sight of luggage gets the tail wagging. 

“We’re small compared to most hotels,” she continued. “But our guests love ‘small.’ Old-school, intimate. Blue Fish is off the main drag and all the congestion of downtown Cape May. Nestled in a Cape May neighborhood, our guests go on long walks along these quiet old streets that feel like home to them and their dogs.”

The motel offers a large pool, a light continental breakfast, and a Steger’s beach box with chairs and umbrellas. A barbecue grill, bike racks, and a clothesline add up to true Jersey Shore feels. 

Marquis de Lafayette Hotel

501 Beach Avenue

All the pet-friendly rooms here run along the ground floor and partially border the pool, which is front and center to all the action on the beach just across the street, the promenade in between, and the Washington Street Mall a short walk behind. This expansive hotel devotes 20 rooms to not just dogs (and their owners), but pets of all kinds, including cats and birds. Even the pool is dog friendly and offers its own doggie snack menu. Every room at the Marquis is a condo, individually owned, but all are furnished in the same decor, which gives the feeling of a grand hotel. 

“These guests and their dogs are like family to us,” comments Jeff Cowan, who manages the hotel. “We have so many who return year after year with their pets. Their dogs know us and respond to us like family members they haven’t seen for a few months, and we know these dogs by name and are happy to see them every season.” 

One regular guest, Marion, has been staying at the Marquis with her Boston Terrier for six seasons. “We park the car once and from then on, we can get to everywhere we love by walking a few blocks in any direction with our dog,” she said. “Washington Street Mall prefers dogs not to be part of the crowd, so we leave him in the condo if we head that way. But there are many places you can take them with you. If I can offer advice to those who travel with their dogs, it’s a big comfort to them to have their crate from home come with them.” 

The Boarding House

810 Lafayette Street

Jonathan Hirsch is no stranger to Cape May or the hospitality industry. His parents established The Montreal Inn in Cape May in 1966 where Jonathan grew up watching ideas become realities. His family bought Cape Winds Motel on Lafayette Street in 2015, which Jonathan revamped into what is now The Boarding House. Initially the ocean, surfing, and beach life were central to its style. But a need arose that has shaped them even more: dog friendly in a highly dog-driven culture.

“We’re not a historical building, but we fit beautifully within the historic district of Cape May City,” comments Jonathan. “And where we lack certain amenities like a pool, we make up with an incredibly modern and ultra-clean space that feels like a very hip little beach bungalow. We’re situated in a quiet neighborhood instead of buried among downtown buildings and crowds. You can get around town easily. The Mall is two blocks in one direction, and parks, outdoor music, and the promenade are all within a short walk. Park your car once in our free lot and off you go with your dog buddy. Or if he has to stay behind at times, he’s safe and snug in a bright homey room.”

Another distinguishing factor? “Instead of ‘bed and breakfast,’ we offer an evening Happy Hour—Bed and Booze—on the comfortable rooftop deck with all locally sourced beers and wines.” Jonathan said. “There are Shore Soaps and Cape May Roasters coffee in each room. Black Sheep dog treats are another local business we support, and they craft personalized dog treats for us.” He added that Manager Chet Kennedy and staff are on hand for support. “If you need us to make reservations at a local restaurant, we’re happy to do it, or get tickets to a local play. We’re small and intimate enough to help with the big details that can make a vacation stress free and relaxed.” 

It’s all about the details here; thoughtful additional amenities include bikes for guest use and a dedicated Steger’s beach box with chairs and umbrellas. Best of all? The dog park is right across the street! 

Highland House

131 Broadway

Dave Ripoli has been a “leader of the pack” when it comes to pet friendly stays in Cape May. The 1855 Highland House is a historic gem, with wood shake charm and old-school hospitality. Dave has welcomed pets since 1994—as did his mother, who came for a visit early in his new venture and stayed for 15 years. “She loved being a part, welcoming guests and taking reservations, cleaning and hosting and always a big smile,” Dave said. “She kept an old-fashioned address book and would send birthday and anniversary cards to guests that had stayed with us. She’s still here in spirit.”

The house is central to the Cove beach in one direction, Higbee in another. Also nearby are shops like West End Garage, several eateries on Park Boulevard. It’s not that far to all the mall has to offer, plus quaint Wilbraham Park—all dog-friendly except the mall. Dave has not only hosted dogs, but many cats, ferrets, a little fish in his bowl who came along for the ride, and two abandoned ducks that imprinted on a couple who couldn’t leave them behind. 

One fond memory is the “wedding” of two Sheltie dogs on Dave’s front porch. Dressed in wedding veil and tux, the dogs tied the knot and honeymooned in a guest room, then enjoyed some dog-friendly venues, including pup cups at the Collar and Bones ice cream bar.

A section of the front garden at Highland House holds the memories and ashes of many canine regulars who vacationed here, a special place in so many hearts. 

There are other places to stay with your four-legged friends; check out capemayrentals.com. And within a 10-mile radius of Cape May City there are 440+ Airbnbs that are dog friendly, and every realtor on Cape Island has pet friendly homes to rent as well.

Doggie Diversions

Collar & Bone Dog Boutique 

Located in the Cape Center City Mall, on the Washington Street Mall

This shop in the “mall on the mall” offers two entrances: one on the Washington Street Mall side, and the dog- friendly entrance around back on Lyle Lane. 

Collar and Bone is a dog lovers delight, offering bagged treats, bakery cookies, toys, everything for your dog’s birthday party, Cape May mementos, assorted chews, canine fashions, flea, tick and grooming supplies, toys, and more. 

Dog Days of Cape May

Located in Washington Commons 

Here at Dog Days of Cape May, you’ll find gifts for both pets and pet lovers of every kind. There’s a bakery case full of treats just inside the front door. And of course there is the standard doggo gear: collars and harnesses, toys, treats, and towels.

The merchandise at Dog Days runs the gamut from keychains to bandanas and snacks to apparel for your canine bestie. And dogs are always welcome to come into the shop to pick out their favorite things. 

The Cape May City Dog Park

705 Lafayette Street 

Here’s what you need to know before you go!

• You need a license for the dog park which you can get at the City Clerk’s office only a block away at 683 Washington Street. 
• Bring proof of current rabies vaccinations; ask your vet for a copy—and your dog’s license from wherever you live, including paperwork and tag.
• Make sure that you familiarize yourself, and your dog, with the park rules. 
• Waste bags are available, but you’re certainly encouraged to bring your own durable ones. 
• And don’t forget: a leash is an absolute MUST!

For pet sitting or dog walking, consider Rover.com 

Dog-friendly Restaurants, Activities, and Attractions 

Restaurants listed offer outside seating, depending on the weather.