I recently spent a little time at some Delaware and Maryland beaches for a story that appears in Sunday's Travel section. I found that there are some amazing places there for your dog. But you need to plan ahead to find them.

I suggest steering northward. In Lewes there's a B&B called the Lazy L that not only welcomes dogs -- they flat-out celebrate them. Sure, there are cheaper motels that allow dogs. But they almost certainly don't have the grassy dog run that the Lazy L has. Or the outdoor dog shower to rinse off sandy paws. Or all the extra towels and water bowls or the ability to take the pooch to breakfast where treats are waiting.

Plus, the Lazy L is very close to Broadkill Beach, the only beach in the area where you can take your dog any time in season. Other beaches, like those at Rehoboth and Ocean City, prohibit dogs all the time in season. At others, like Dewey or Lewes, you have to watch the clock, as dogs are only allowed very early or very late in the day.

Anyway, check the story. There are some good finds -- a restaurant called FishOn! in Lewes with a doggie menu, a boutique called Yuppy Puppy in Bethany that hosts doggie pizza nights on Fridays and doggie pancake breakfasts on Sundays.

Write in if you've found some other spots. Or with your reviews if you've tried any of the places I mentioned.