Update 2016: Well the downside to this nifty little tool was once the battery wore out, it wasn't cost effective to buy another one. Instead, I switched to the
WEN 2307 Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit with 100-Piece Accessories
which is a plug in unit. I'm similarly happy with the Wen and highly recommend it!
I was looking for a grinding tool to use for trimming my dogs' nails since they don't like clippers and I refuse to pay a vet or groomer for something so simple...especially since I have four dogs. I did some research, checked Amazon reviews for various products, watched prices on both Amazon and Ebay (used and new) and ended up buying the Dremel 7300 cordless MiniMite new on Amazon.
After only about a week of introducing my dogs to the tool (using the instructions on doberdawn.com which is very detailed and great for the newbie...they don't sell anything, just an advice site), I'm now able to get my dogs to lie there while I do nail trimmings. This is a HUGE improvement over using typical dog clippers! I'm simply amazed at how well they took to it.
After reading about the PediPaws and similar items, then the Dremel models/options, I went with the MiniMite because it's similar to the Pedipaws except there's no guard (I haven't found this to be an issue) and it works better, is sturdier, and lasts longer according to other reviewers. I've only had it for two weeks, so I can't give feedback on longevity yet...but I do know it will be getting lots of use at our house, so time will tell. And we are still using the first sanding wheel, haven't had to replace it yet.
Plus it's cordless, so it's easier to use for the dogs anywhere in the house or outside (in warmer weather). So far I haven't had to recharge the battery (I've been using it daily for about two weeks now).
If you're struggling with dogs who hate nail clippers, I highly recommend trying a MiniMite. I have four dogs ranging size from 11 lbs to 67 lbs and it works well for all of them. I bought this specific one because I wanted more than one speed and I didn't need a lot of attachments to go with it. This is nice and compact and not so noisy that it scares the dogs. Both the MiniMite and the charger fit on my desk, within easy reach whenever I need to do some nail trimming. There's no cord on the charger, it just plugs directly into a wall outlet and you click the MiniMite battery into the charger base. It's 2-1/2" deep (sticking out from the outlet), so you need a spot where there's about 4-5" of clearance to easily plug in/remove the battery & charger. A counter outlet or a wall outlet that's not next to furniture are both good choices.
I've never had a Dremel or similar model of hand grinder. It's a handy little tool and I'm sure I'll find other uses for it in time. But for right now, I'm VERY happy with the results on my dogs' nails (and no rough edges like you get with nail clippers).
| Brand | Dremel |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 4.8 Volts |
| Power Source | cordless-electric |
| Color | Grey |
| Special Feature | Cordless |
| Included Components | battery |
| Item Weight | 1.1 Pounds |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 13000 RPM |
| Style | Rotary tool |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 8 x 4.2 x 9.2 inches |
| Manufacturer | Dremel |
| Part Number | 7300-N/8 |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 8 x 4.2 x 9.2 inches |
| Item model number | 7300-N/8 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | Medium |
| Material | Multi |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Measurement System | Metric |
| Special Features | Cordless |
| Batteries Included? | Yes |
| Batteries Required? | Yes |
| Battery Cell Type | NiCAD |
| Warranty Description | 1 year |
