How to Use a Dremel 761-03 Pet Nail Grooming Kit

The Dremel Pet Grooming Kit contains a small, cordless grinding tool, weighing about 6 oz., that runs on AA batteries. The kit comes with five different grinding bits and a wrench to change them. There are two speed settings, so the tool works for both small and larger dogs. Many people have a difficult time cutting their dogs' nails, either because they are afraid they will cut the quick of a nail or the dog is afraid of the process. This tool can make the overall process painless and easy for both owner and pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Dremel 761-03 Cordless Pet Nail Grooming Kit
  • Dog treats (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get your dog used to the sound of the Dremel first. Turn the tool on when your dog is nearby. Offer treats to keep the dog nearby if necessary, until the dog is comfortable with the sound.

    • 2

      Sit with your dog in a comfortable but stable position. For a small dog, this will probably mean you are holding your dog. For a larger dog, you may be sitting next to him with his paw in your lap. Take one of his paws in your hand and press the bottom pad of his paw gently to extend his nails. With the tool in your other hand, let your dog sniff the tool. Turn on the Dremel tool on the lowest speed and touch the grinding bit for a second to a nail to get your dog used to the vibrating effect. Give him a treat and praise. Repeat this brief session until your dog is comfortable with the sensation.

    • 3

      Once your dog is easy with having its nail touched by the tool, identify the quick of the nail, which is the vein that feeds into the toenail. With darker colored nails, this may be difficult to see at first glance. You will need to stop short of the quick, leaving a space before it, otherwise you may nick it and it will bleed. Hold the dog's paw in one hand, pressing the bottom pad of his paw to extend the nail. Holding the tool in your other hand, place the grinding tool against the end of the first nail for only a few seconds at a time. Do not apply pressure; allow the sanding tool to do its job. Pressure will cause added heat to the process, making it uncomfortable for your dog. Continue grinding at roughly a 45-degree angle until the nail is at the desired length.

    • 4

      Move on to the next nail if your dog is comfortable with the process; if not, save it for another session. Work your way up to doing one paw at first. Work on the second paw at a later time. Gradually you will be able to incorporate working on both paws in the same session.