As he sits atop a soft Oriental rug at the Burnt Toast Inn, Bojangles is much like any other innkeeper. Attentive, polite and entertaining, he welcomes his guests with enthusiasm. Bo is, of course, a 90-pound mix of mastiff and Rhodesian ridgeback. Bo leaves reservations, accounting and other matters to owner Sarah Okumyama, and just enjoys relaxing around the inn. He seems to know when to approach guests and when to allow them privacy, just like any good innkeeper.
There are plenty of reasons to visit the Whitegate Inn Bed and Breakfast in Mendocino, Calif. The beautiful garden setting, rooms decorated with romantic furnishings and historic architecture lure guests year after year. But for canine lovers, Corky the Miracle Dog, is yet another reason to book a stay. This handsome Portugeuse Water dog is one of the family, greeting guests with a wagging tail and sparkling dark eyes. Several years ago, Corky was lost in a nearby state park. For more than 40 days, innkeepers Richard and Susan Strom and many friends and strangers searched for this beloved pet. A good Samaritan found Corky and returned him to his inn. He is now back to what he does best, making those around him happy - a perfect innkeeper.
Rudy, an attractive Dalmatian, and his pal Milton, a distinguished retired greyhound, are old hands at the innkeeping game. They are always happy to meet with the guests at the 1890s Captain's House on the Lake in Granbury, Texas. Although, they live in the owners' residence, they are often seen scurrying after ducks or romping around the property. "The guests at our B&B love to interact with the dogs while we're out on a walk," explains owner Bob Hayes.
Meramec Farms, located in the Ozark hills of Missouri, has been in the same family for more than 180 years. You can visit the farm animals, go on a horse ride, explore caves or just relax in your cabin. If you plan on taking a dip in the swimming hole, be sure to ask Feisty and Sylvie, the farm's doggie innkeepers, to help you find the way. These friendly terrier mixes are happy to share their knowledge of the 460-acre grounds or just spend some time relaxing with you, enjoying the scenery.
You might find Ellie May, a schnauzer-poodle mix, cuddling with guest in the living room at Canterbury Cottage in Bar Harbor, Maine. Melvin, an 80-pound lab/poodle mix is also often found with his head resting comfortably upon a happy guest. "Dogs sense whether or not you're a dog person," explains innkeeper Martha Helfrich. She and partner Rob Rochon don't allow their canine innkeepers into guest rooms or at the breakfast table, but they are often found relaxing in the main common areas. But if you'd like a little dog cuddle time, Ellie May and Melvin are always happy to oblige.
Breezy, a sweet cocker spaniel, is a city dog with a city job. No chasing sheep for him, he greets guests every day at the Hayes Valley Inn, which is located in downtown San Francisco. Breezy strives to make all of her guests feel comfortable and right at home.
While pet innkeepers might dissuade some, their human counterparts are unanimous that having a furry friend around rates two paws up. "Dogs provide an extra dimension of comfort," says Sarah Okuyama, whose dog Bo welcomes new guests every day. "Especially those who miss their pets at home."