Grooming is essential for pet's health.(Knight Ridder Newspapers)

Byline: Dr. Tracy Acosta

Proper hygiene and grooming have a number of benefits and are important aspects of your pet's overall health.

A pet who is groomed regularly is more likely to be comfortable being handled by a veterinarian, professional groomer and all who enjoy the pet's company.

Grooming is a great way to keep tabs on what is going on with your pet's body. By establishing a grooming routine early in your pet's life, you will quickly learn what is normal for your pet. Anything unusual will stand out, often allowing you to catch problems such as ear infections, skin disease, parasite infestations and tumors before they become serious.

Following these few concepts produces a lifelong trust between you and your pet and will allow you and others not only to perform routine …