Product Review: Pedi-Paws

Ok, on a whim I purchased the Pedi-Paws "Incredible Pet Nail Trimmer" the other day while waiting on some pictures to be developed at Walgreens. I had seen the ads on TV and had several discussions with other dog owners about how it looks like a good idea.

Well after spending the $20.00 to try the product, I've decided to return it and get my money back. The premise seems very good, however after following the directions I felt the product was not all it was cracked up to be.

First off we followed the directions trying to get my 7 year old Labrador retriever comfortable with the noise made by the unit over several days. Unfortunately he's the type of dog that runs when the vacuum comes on. So when we turned on the Pedi-Paws nail trimmer, he was hard to settle down. The TV conveniently does not have any sound for when the unit is running. The directions talk about if you are unable to get your pet comfortable you basically have to strong arm them to the ground and be "assertive" and let them know "You are in charge!" Yeah OK, my lab weighs 85 pounds if he doesn't want it done it isn't going to happen.

Second, this product must be intended to be used on almost a daily basis. Not on a set of nails that are hardened and haven't been cut in about a month. The emery bandings that do the sanding had a hard time making any progress on my dog's nails on the first try, couple that with trying to keep the dog still it was a loosing proposition. The band also seemed to wear out pretty fast on the first paw.

Third, the unit only comes with 4 emery bands for start up. Refill emery bands are only available though the manufacturer: $7.99 with $2.99 shipping and handling for 10 bands. You can send check or money order, call toll free or place you order via the internet.

We also tried the Pedi-Paws on our 11 week old redbone coonhound puppy figuring if it worked we would keep it for him. Again, the combination of noise and the overall grinding was not accepted well.

In my opinion, the Pedi-Paws pet nail trimmer could be an effect tool for smaller dogs that like to be pampered not larger hunting breeds like I have. There are many good nail trimming devices out there under $20 that seem to be much more effective. Petco even has a QuickFinder Clipper that utilizes QuickSensor Technology that senses your pet's quick and gives visual cues as to when it is safe and when it is not safe to begin clipping.

If you are still nervous about trimming talk to your vet, they would be able to show you proper nail care for your family pet.