How to choose a dog trainer:

• Article by Cesar Millan
  

How to choose a veterinarian:

• Article by Cesar Millan
  

How to choose a groomer:

• Get recommendations from friends, vets, local pet stores
• Check groomer’s credentials. Are they specialty trained, certified at minimum do they have a business license. You can even check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints
• Ask if the groomer have experience with your particular breed, especially if you are interested in showing a dog.
• Safety issues, how do they restrain your dog, what are their policies if a dog is cut or injured, do they used harsh chemical shampoos. How do they handle difficult dogs
• What is your dog doing in between the grooming process? Are they housed separately, receive a potty break or water
• Ask the groomers schedule policy, do they accept walk in for emergency grooming?

Puppy socialization:

• Article by Cesar Millan
  
  
  

How to choose a pet sitter:

• What services are included in the fee?
• Are there any extra services that require additional payments?
• Does the sitter have a standard contract that spells out services, payments and other obligations?
• Is the sitter bonded and insured for liability?
• Can the sitter provide references that you can check?
• What types of pets has the sitter cared for in the past?
• How much time will the sitter spend with your pet?
• What kind of activities will the sitter share with your pet?
• How would the pet sitter handle a medical or home emergency?
• Is the sitter affiliated with any pet care organizations?

Dog Health Info:

• American Veterinary Medical Association
• WebMD for Dogs
• About.com

Animal Organizations:

• www.aspca.org
• American Humane
• Humane Society
• PETA

• www.bestfriends.org

Pet insurance:

www.purinacare.com
• VPI Pet Insurance
• ASPCA PetHealth Insurance
• PetPlan
• Trupanion