Autumn's shorter days and cooler temperatures prompt us to make many changes in our daily lives - from what we wear, to the way we decorate our homes. As you prepare for the change of seasons, don't overlook your pets' special needs. If your dog or cat has spent a great deal of time out-of-doors this summer, he may have skin, coat or other problems that require attention now.

Begin with a thorough inspection
Val Penstone, director of grooming for Best Friends Pet Resorts, recommends that you start by carefully inspecting your pet from head to toe.

• Skin. Check his skin for signs of irritation due to parasites. In many areas of the country, fall is still flea season and tick populations often peak when the leaves come down. Parasite prevention is critical now, as those pesky critters try to come in from the cold! Your veterinarian or professional groomer can advise you on the latest in year-round protection.

• Ears. Check ears for problems that may have been triggered by summer swims. Weekly cleaning with a solution made for ear care is a good year-round preventative measure. Massaging the solution into the ear softens wax and dirt, floating it to the exterior, where you can wipe it gently away with cotton. Ear cleaners also control the growth of organisms that thrive in the moist conditions of the ear.

• Feet. Spread the pads and look between and under the toes. Have lawn chemicals caused contact dermatitis? Has sun-heated asphalt stuck in lumps to the feet? Are thorns and grass seed puncturing the skin? What about harvest-time chiggers, another nasty critter that can cause misery?

Establish good grooming habits
Regular grooming is important to your pet's good health. Weekly home maintenance keeps skin and coat healthy and insect-free, and pet companions more pleasant to be near. It also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. A regular grooming routine should include:

• Brush and comb weekly, more often for pets with long hair. As shorter summer haircuts grow back in, your grooming routine will need more effort. For your pet's comfort, use a conditioning and untangling spray before brushing. After systematically brushing though the coat, use a professional steel pinned comb to make sure all the knots and shedding hair have been removed.

• Shampoo regularly. Pets are four-legged dust mops. Regular shampooing gets rid of mold spores, dust, dirt and dander -- relieving the itching pet and his people who suffer with allergies. Use only a shampoo formulated specially for pets and follow with a conditioning rinse. Towel, and separate the hair by brushing and combing to speed drying. If you use a hair dryer, put it on the coolest setting and use caution to avoid burning your pet's skin.

• Keep up with nail clipping. As days shorten, so do exercise hours. Nails can become overgrown. Use only a proper nail-clipping tool, taking off a small amount at a time. Stay well below the "quick", the point at which there is blood flow, but be prepared with a styptic product in case you do clip into the blood vessel.

If there are tasks you cannot or do not want to undertake yourself, seek the help of a professional groomer, whose services will include tough jobs like nail clipping and tangle removal. For information on grooming at the Best Friends nearest you, check our centers.