2008.08.22
Cali meets the FURminator
Prize winner Cali inspects the new FURminator and other goodies that were awarded to her pet mom, longtime blog reader Kim. Click here to read Kim's, and kitty FURminator Laura's, comments about the grooming tools.
Next on the list of pet tools to try is the Peticure, the motorized pet nail filing gadget. You may have seen commercials for it on Animal Planet. It basically rounds off and smoothes the tips of the dog's or cat's nails without clipping, thus risking a painful cut of the quick where the nerves reside.
If you have ever accidentally cut the nail quick on a dog or cat, you know how much it hurts him or her and how much blood seeps out. Nasty business.
After seeing it advertised, we were a little skeptical if it would actually work. Wouldn't professional groomers use it if really did a good job without risk to the pet?
My hubby saw a morning show news spot that said the tool does what it is supposed to do, although some pets are a little skittish of the humming sound it makes. So we ordered one that I hope arrives today or tomorrow.
I will be sure to let you know how it works for my pack of pooches. If any of you have one of these gadgets, post a comment and let us know what you think.
I haven't seen the Peticure, but it sounds like a simplified rotary tool (Dremel(tm)). We have received recommendations on using a rotary tool for nail trimming by a vet, an instructor, and a groomer. All say they are easy to use (once the pet gets used to it), leave a smoother edge, and make it easier to trim less of the claw at a time (less chance of trimming too much).
The instructor showed a great way to introduce the dog to the unit. It started with putting the unit on the floor (off), then turning it on, then rubbing the bottom (non-tool end) against the dog's paws when they're comfortable (usually lying down getting a belly rub). This sequence gets them accustomed to the unit (and vibration) gradually.
Comment by Ed S. — August 22, 2008 @ 11:31 am
Thanks for the information, Ed. I am glad to hear this type of tool has been recommended by professionals. And the advice you gave for introducing it to the pack sounds spot on. That's what we will do when we get it.
Comment by Nona — August 22, 2008 @ 1:09 pm
Please be sure to share with us how the Peticure works out. I have seen it on TV and it is basically a Dremel tool. My husband wanted to get one because we are thinking about replacing our carpet with hardwood flooring in the living room. We are concerned about Cali damaging the floor with her nails and thought that if we could keep them trimmed nicely it would help.
Comment by Kim — August 22, 2008 @ 4:02 pm
I saw a commercial for that nail trimming tool and was highly amused by the shot of a person sanding a cat's claws. The cat was just lying there, as calm as can be. I know if I got any loud, buzzing thing near my cats, they would first claw my face off and then go hide under the bed. It made me wonder if the cat in the commercial had a little Benadryl or something before the shoot. Haha. Maybe it really is just a matter of getting them used to it. I do hate trying to trim my cat's nails with clippers.
Comment by Lindsey — August 22, 2008 @ 4:13 pm
Oh, I do not think I am going to try to use it on cats. Just the thought of that scares the bejeezus out of me. I like my face the way it is.
No no, this is strictly a pooch tool.
Comment by Nona — August 22, 2008 @ 4:54 pm