Welcome to Maine!! I left there almost 2 years ago after living there for 17 years. If you have a chance, go see "The Edith Jones Project" at their concert next weekend in Gorham. The band is named after my yorkie, Edith Jones (aka Edie on YT). Go to
www.edithjonesproject.com for ticket info.
Higgins Beach allows dogs at certain times of year. Try going north to Popham Beach....very nice.