Best Vet Practice – Topsham Veterinary & Wellness Center
Founded in 2012, Topsham Veterinary Wellness Center (TVWC) is proud to be an independent, locally owned small animal practice serving Midcoast Maine. Led by Dr. Amy Ruksznis, our team is known for exceptional diagnostic skills, personalized care, and compassionate communication with every client. As a full-care hospital, we provide everything from wellness exams and surgery to advanced diagnostics and dentistry — all tailored to each pet’s needs. We focus on uncovering the “why” behind each case to help pets live healthier, happier lives.
At TVWC, we believe in empowering pet owners through education, collaboration, and affordable wellness plans that make proactive care accessible and effective. Our approach centers on preventing chronic disease, promoting long-term health, and strengthening the bond between pets and their families.
Thank you to our loyal clients for trusting us and voting us Best Veterinary Practice — we’re honored to keep your pets healthy together and excited to welcome new patients to our growing Midcoast Maine family.
Best Groomer – Gold Style Grooming
Gold Style Grooming was founded in 2021 by pet stylist Jay Snowdon with one mission — to create a salon where pets feel as good as they look. Since opening, Gold Style has grown into a family of passionate, animal-loving groomers who treat every client like their own. Our goal is to provide a warm, positive, and safe environment where pets can truly enjoy their spa day. At Gold Style, animal health and safety always come first — and stylizing comes second. We use only high-end, carefully chosen products to deliver a healthy coat and a polished finish. Whether your pup needs a quick nail trim, a shed-relief bath, or a breed-standard haircut, we’re your Midcoast Maine go-to for quality, compassion, and a little extra sparkle.
Best Trainer - Maximillion Dog Training
Maximillion Dog Training, owned by Zachariah and Martina Smith, has been voted Maine's Best Dog Trainer for the second year in a row, solidifying their reputation as a trusted and expert training facility. Based in Oakland, Maine, their studio specializes in positive reinforcement training, fostering trust and respect between dogs and owners. With a science-based approach their team tackles a range of needs, from basic obedience to behavioral modification offering one-on-one private in-person sessions at their studio, in-home training, and online video training. Welcoming all breeds and problems, Maximillion Dog Training provides personalized and effective solutions. This award reflects the community's confidence in their training mission. Zachariah and Martina Smith are grateful for the recognition and excited to continue serving Maine's dog community and contributing to the loving relationships between dogs and owners. Their dedication has positively impacted the canine community, and they're honored to be Maine's go-to dog trainers.
Best Pet Store - Loyal Biscuit Waterville
Part of the EarthWise Pet Family of Brands, Loyal Biscuit Co. is committed to providing high-quality pet supplies and services, as well as supporting animal welfare organizations in the community. We are your destination for the best in healthy, all-natural food and treats, the best in toys, collars, leashes, beds, and more with over 5,000 hand selected items in our stores, plus we have access to over 25,000 more products we can special order! We are an award-winning pet supply store with 6 locations throughout Maine at 180 Front St, Bath; Reny’s Plaza, 1 Belmont Avenue, Belfast; Hannaford Shopping Plaza, 421 Wilson Street, Brewer; US Route 1, Camden-Rockport; 408 Main Street, Rockland; and 109 Main Street, Waterville.
Best Pet Product – Mountain Dog Cookie Co.
I am so thankful to again be chosen as Maine’s Best Pet Product! When I began Mountain Dog Cookie Co. in 2015, my goal was to make a dog cookie with simple quality ingredients good enough for humans, that were decorated to celebrate the dogs we love. Our decorated cookies are baked to order in small batches. Jon and I firmly believe that just because it’s a dog cookie, doesn’t mean it can’t be fun to look at. Which is what makes our homemade cookies so special. You can find us and photos of our cookies on Facebook. Thank you to all who voted for us in 2025 as well as in years past. Your support of small businesses like ours means the world.
Melissa and Jon
Best Daycare/Boarding – Uncommon Dog
Thank you! We are so appreciative. As the longtime owner of Carden Kennels in Bangor, I was delighted to have the opportunity in 2023 to purchase the facility that is now Uncommon Dog. Our day balances group play, rest, and enrichment activities. We offer walks on our private trails. Staff are certified in Pet CPR and learn about group play and dog body language. I have certifications from AKC, IBPSA, and others, and I love to learn about this industry. With the staff, we have improved customer experience, renovated the boarding areas, added a curated retail area, perks for employees, and provided continuing education opportunities for all team members. We love your pets, and we know that our product is peace of mind. To our families and supporters, that you see the same incredible talent, caring, and dedication in my teams as I do fills my heart. Thank you.
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 FIVE 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 – Dan Marino
Dan Marino is a pet photographer based out of Augusta, Maine. His sessions are relaxed, laid back, and focused on creating a fun experience for pets and their parents. The best part is that no training is required! Many sessions take place on leash with dogs that don't know commands. Dan believes that every dog has a story with remembering and is grateful that he gets to be a part of preserving these special memories. Thank you for voting Daniel Marino Photo as the best pet photographer!
Best Pet-Friendly Campground – Hadley’s Point Campground
Hadley’s Point Campground is located just minutes from downtown Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. It has been family-owned and operated for over 55 years, welcoming generations of families. Whether you prefer tent camping, the comforts of an RV, or renting a cabin, Hadley’s Point has got you covered. We would love to welcome you and your family!