Tips From Mage Players?

[Drakul]

I'm trying out the mage and I like it, but I'd like to learn the intricacies of the class.

1) How does chain summoning work? Do you wait for your pet to die, then cast another one? Do mages get root, and if so do you root first? Can you dismiss your pet while the spell is about to finish casting?

2) What are the pros/cons of each pet? So far I noticed fire seems to have a damage shield and earth roots.

3) Does playing a mage get harder at higher levels? I'm still only level 7 but since I got my pet at level 4 I feel like it's been even easier and faster than soloing with my necro... does it stay this easy?

4) Any other tips?