Congratulations to our winners and thank you to our readers for voting!
Best Vet Practice – Androscoggin Animal Hospital
We are honored to be voted Best Vet Practice for 2026! As a hospital that has been accredited with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) for more than 20 years, Androscoggin Animal Hospital believes every pet deserves exceptional veterinary care delivered with compassion, kindness, and respect. Since 1985, our team has been dedicated to providing high-quality medical care while building lasting relationships with the pets and families we are privileged to serve. Our mission is to care for every patient as an individual, support the people who love them, and make a positive difference in the lives of animals throughout our community. To our clients, we thank you for letting us share in your pets’ lives and your family’s journey. We couldn’t do it without you and look forward to caring for your beloved companions for many years to come!
Best Groomer – Syd’s Grooms
Syd’s Grooms started in February 2023, when I was a new mom with a dream of building something of my own while doing what I love most: making dogs look and feel their best. What began as a small business has grown into something I’m incredibly proud of. My goal has always been to provide personalized, one-on-one grooming in a calm, caring environment where every dog is treated like family.
As a solo groomer, business owner, wife, and mom of two little boys, I pour my heart into everything I do. Being recognized for my profession is such a rewarding reminder that all the hard work, long days, and sacrifices are paying off — and that it’s all worth it. I’m so thankful for my loyal clients who trust me with their beloved pets and continue to support my small business. You are a huge part of this journey, and I couldn’t do it without you!
Best Trainer - Maximillion Dog Training
Maximillion Dog Training owned by Zachariah and Martina Smith, has been voted Maine's Best Dog Trainer for three consecutive years, solidifying their reputation as Maine's most trusted training facility. Based in Oakland, Maine their studio specializes in positive-reinforcement, science-based training that fosters deep trust and lasting respect between dogs and their owners. Welcoming all breeds and all behavioral challenges they provide personalized, effective solutions ranging from basic obedience to advanced behavioral modification through one-on-one private sessions at their Oakland studio, convenient in-home training, and flexible online video coaching. This three-year recognition reflects the community's unwavering confidence in their mission and proven results. Zachariah and Martina are incredibly grateful for this honor and are excited to continue serving Maine's dog community, strengthening the loving bond between dogs and families and positively impacting the canine community statewide. Their dedication, expertise, and heart have made them Maine's go-to trainers for confident companions.
Best Pet Store - Loyal Biscuit Waterville
Loyal Biscuit Co. is honored to serve Waterville and surrounding Central Maine communities from our store at 109 Main Street. Dedicated to the health and happiness of local pets, we are proud to support nearby shelter partners and the devoted pet parents who care for them.
Our Waterville location features a thoughtfully curated selection of premium, all-natural foods and wholesome treats, alongside handpicked toys, leashes, collars, cozy beds, and essential grooming supplies. Every item on our shelves is carefully chosen for quality and safety, giving you access to a wide selection of trusted products.
Proudly part of the EarthWise Pet family of brands, our award-winning team is always here to provide personalized recommendations across six Maine locations. Thank you for voting us Best Pet Store in 2026!
Best Pet Product – Dapper Dogs
My name is Katelyn, I am the owner of Dapper Dogs! My business was founded in 2015 when my late dog Sparky (who is featured as the business logo!) used to lose his tie-around bandanas in the woods. Sparky was the inspiration to create a bandana that could easily slide onto a dog's collar, as he loved wearing his fashionable attire! He would sit next to the sewing machine waiting to try on every new pattern. I wanted to share that with other dogs too- so here we are! We have settled in Eddington, spending many hours sewing each bandana with care. You can tell which patterns are my favorite as most of them are Halloween themed. I am honored to be voted best pet product for 2026. I have plans to expand my wares and make every pet in the state of Maine very, very dapper!
Best Daycare/Boarding – Play & Stay Pet Retreat, LLC
Founded, owned and operated by Alec & Morgan Frost, Play & Stay Pet Retreat opened just earlier this year! As a new business, we are honored to have been voted Maines best Doggy Daycare/Boarding Facility! Conveniently located in the town of Mercer, our AKC SAFE certified groomer offers services for dogs and cats, and our certified AKC CGC evaluator offers professional dog training. Our trainer, Morgan Frost, founder of “Pine State Shepherds Training,” was voted 3rd best trainer this year!
Because our team is dedicated to giving your pet(s) top quality care, our boarding rooms are climate controlled with a/c, our daycare is structurally run with enrichment activities, adequate rest, knowledgeable supervision, and includes multiple play yards for optimal safety during play. Additionally, all staff are pet CPR & 1st Aid Certified.
We are looking forward to continuing serving our community with our services, and we could not be more grateful to all our clients for entrusting us with their pet(s)!
Best Rescue/Shelter – Midcoast Humane
Midcoast Humane is one of Maine’s largest and most impactful animal welfare organizations. Our mission is to protect and care for animals in need, support the people who love them, and strengthen our community through shared resources, compassion, and engagement. With sheltering facilities in Brunswick and Edgecomb, we proudly serve 39 towns across Maine’s Midcoast regions and care for more than 4,000 animals each year—providing safety, compassion, and second chances for those in need. Every animal that comes through our doors receives exceptional veterinary care, including spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, and medical treatment, as well as the love and comfort they deserve while waiting for new, loving homes. At Midcoast Humane, we believe every life matters—and we’re proud to work tirelessly to save them.
Best Pet-Friendly Lodging – Little White Dog Properties
Hello, I’m Sara Sokol, I’m Little White Dog Properties, named for the most wonderful little white dog in the world, Milo. My pet friendly vacation rental property, Wiggleswick Cottage, sits on 2.5 acres and 75 feet of deep waterfront shoreline in beautiful Georgetown Maine and have been voted BEST Pet Friendly Lodging for the past SIX years! It was important to me to create a beautiful, comfortable, and clean vacation home where people are welcome to vacation with their dogs since I believe that life is always better with a dog by your side. I take pride in never charging a pet fee, welcoming multiple dogs of all sizes, breeds, and ages, as well as providing numerous amenities just for dogs. In addition, I prioritize outstanding customer service, and strive to give my guests, both two and four legged, a vacation experience that they won’t forget; from the moment they book, through checkout, and return trips. Come stay with me!
Best Pet Photographer – Forever by Fortier
Hi, I’m Alissa, the photographer behind Forever by Fortier! Based in New Sharon, I photograph families, couples, and dogs with their people throughout Central and Western Maine, including Farmington, Belgrade, Mount Vernon, Rangeley, and beyond.
My photography is for the people who know they’re living the good old days right now. The ones who want to remember the genuine connections, big laughs, muddy paws, and little in-between moments that make life so special. Beautiful photos, very little pretending.
Around here, dogs aren’t an add-on to family photos. They’re part of the story! Your kids don’t need to perform, your dog doesn’t need perfect obedience, and you don’t need to know how to pose. I’ll guide you while leaving plenty of room for the moments that happen naturally.
I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who voted and supported my small business. It truly means the world!
Best Pet-Friendly Campground – Cathedral Pines Campground
Cathedral Pines Campground sits along the shores of Flagstaff Lake in Eustis, offering 115 tent and trailer sites, including 98 with water and electrical hookups. Amenities include hot showers, laundry facilities, internet access, a playground, recreation hall, boat ramp, canoe and kayak rentals, paddle boats, and more.
Pets are welcome but must remain under your control at all times and be leashed when outside your campsite. Pets are not permitted on the beach, playground, or inside any buildings.
Nearby attractions and conveniences include local stores, churches, fishing opportunities, the Appalachian Trail, Sugarloaf Mountain Golf Course, and the spectacular Bigelow Mountain Range.