Top 3 reasons to make a trip to the groomer this fall

Whether you're a long-time pet parent or just recently adopted your canine from a New York animal shelter, there are lot of misconceptions out there about the role of groomers in promoting dog wellness. According to JDNews.com, while some dog parents look at grooming simply as a cosmetic procedure, it's far more involved than that.

"Pet grooming is more than just a vanity measure, it's an essential part of preventative care," Dr. Dave Altman, a veterinarian from Onslow County, Florida, told the news source.

While groomers certainly aren't trained veterinarians, they may have worked on thousands of dogs over the years and have likely seen countless potential problems that could be cause for alarm. If you're not quite convinced, here are a few ways that your groomer could help improve your dog's overall well-being.

1. Skin issues. Because groomers will be working so closely with your dog's skin and coat, you can count on their learned eyes to keep a lookout for any signs of potential skin ailments. Anything from dryness, hot spots, allergic reactions and other nagging issues that you may not be familiar with could be spotted by your groomer. This will allow you to form a plan of action and help improve your pet's quality of life.

2. Flea prevention. While it may be unsettling to think about, groomers play an important role in the prevention of flea infestations, and they will be able to spot the signs of flea filth and eggs rather quickly. Additionally, they have the tools on-hand to help treat your dog's coat and protect against these pesky insects, and may have some helpful advice on how to treat your home and yard in the future.

3. Ear and oral care. In addition to giving your canine a thorough cut and trim, most groomers will take a closer look at the inside of your dog's ears, as well as his or her gums and teeth. After working on countless dogs over the years, your groomer may be able to spot the early signs of gum disease or ear mites, which will give you pause to make a few positive changes to your pet care regimen.

With the dog days of summer finally here, now is the perfect time of year to bring your furry friend in for a grooming appointment that may significantly improve your companion's quality of life.