The dog might be big or small, young or old, but one thing’s for sure: He or she will be available for adoption.

Ramey is one of 148 lobby dogs adopted through Inn by the Sea by guests from across the country.Courtesy of Inn by the Sea

For several years, the inn has fostered dogs from the nonprofit Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland to give guests a chance to interact with a dog and potentially take one home. So far 148 dogs have been adopted through the innovative program, according to Rauni Kew, Inn by the Sea public relations manager.

“We care for the dog and give it a temporary home here until somebody falls in love and adopts the dog,” she told TODAY. “I can’t tell you how many guests have said to us, ‘There’s no way we would’ve gone to a shelter; we had decided we wouldn’t have another dog.' But they’ve fallen in love with the dog behind the desk.”