Driving down Lambert’s Cove Road in West Tisbury, you might notice an unassuming sign that reads Lambert’s Cove Inn & Resort. But once you make the turn and journey down Manaquayak Road, you’ll find yourself enchanted. At the end lies a hidden gem, a pastoral eight-acre property that was once a working farm.

Today the Lambert’s Cove Inn & Resort, bought in 2022 by Stephanie and Jon Saunders of Cohasset, Mass., includes fine dining restaurant Woods and an English garden for wedding ceremonies, in addition to rooms and cottages. And to the delight of many guests, the Inn welcomes both humans and their canine companions.

In fact, once you arrive, you might meet Pearl or Cait (or both), border collie rescues adopted by inn manager Bridget Sampson and her husband, chef Galen Sampson. The Sampsons are passionate dog lovers and hope that the presence of Pearl and Cait (below) can help guests missing their pets to feel more at home. In turn, many guests report that the dogs are a highlight of their visits.

Even during the off-season, when Bridget hosts a book club, everyone says one of the best parts of the gathering is hanging out with Pearl and Cait.

Bridget (below) and Galen’s love of dogs extends to supporting community organizations. A notable collaboration was a fundraiser for Angels Helping Animals Worldwide, where the inn hosted a silent auction and reception that raised several thousand dollars in just a few hours.

What about visiting dogs? The inn offers two dog-friendly rooms, so plan in advance and reserve one if you want to travel with your pet. If you are planning a wedding at the inn, your dog is welcome to participate in the ceremony. From rottweilers serving as ring bearers to dachshunds donning tiny tuxedos, weddings here celebrate the deep bond between couples and their pets.

And if you’re not able to travel with your pet, rest assured that Pearl (below) and Cait can provide canine company in a pinch.

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All photos by Mindy Dutka.

Mindy Dutka is a photographer, dog advocate, and founder of dogsimeet.com.