DM 2610000602 05-08 5/19/08 9:35 AM Page 12
The Nail Grooming Process
It is important to let the speed of the rotary tool do the work. You should never apply pressure to the toenail with the spinning sanding drum. Allow the speed of the sanding drum to remove the nail material without adding pressure. Pressure caus- es the nail to get too hot causing discomfort for your pet.
The rotary tool’s spinning sanding drum should not be kept against the nail longer than three sec- onds at a time. It is recommended that you alter- nate between all the nails on two paws at a time. This rotation method allows the nails to cool before they are ground a second time.
Support the toe and nail in one hand while using the rotary tool in the other hand. This lessens the vibration of the grinding procedure and is more comfortable for your pet. Pushing gently on the bottom of the paw’s pad extends the nail slightly for easier grooming.
Pet Safety
Secure the pet. Some pets may become nervous in the presence of the tool. The operator needs both hands to groom the nail. It may be helpful to have another person assist in restraining the pet.
Keep pet hair away from spinning parts. Hair can entangle in the tool, causing injury to your pet.
Safety Tips
Should hair be accidentally caught in the rotary tool, immediately turn off the tool and untangle the hair from the tool.
For pets with particularly long hair, use an old sock to cover the toe, foot and leg of the pet and isolate the nail. Push the nail out through a small opening at the tip of the sock to groom the nail.
Keep styptic powder on hand in case of bleeding. Styptic powder is available at most pet supply stores. Follow the directions on the packaging for proper use instructions.
Using the Cordless Rotary Tool
The first step in learning to use the Cordless Rotary Tool is to get the “feel” of it. Hold it in your hand and feel its weight and balance. Feel the taper of the housing. This taper permits the tool to be grasped much like a pen or pencil.
When you turn on the tool for the first time, hold it away from your face. Accessories can be damaged during handling, and can fly apart as they come up to speed. This is not common, but it does happen.
Practice on scrap materials first to see how the Cordless Rotary Tool works. Keep in mind that the work is done by the speed of the tool and by the accessory in the collet. You should not lean on or push the tool into the work.
Instead, lower the spinning accessory lightly to the work and allow it to touch the point at which you want to begin. Concentrate on guiding the tool over the work using very little pressure from your hand. Allow the accessory to do the work.
Usually, it is best to make a series of passes with the tool rather than attempt to do all the work in one pass. Pass the tool back and forth over the work, much as you would a small paint brush. For most work, the deft, gentle touch is best. With it, you have the best control, are less likely to make errors, and will get the most efficient work out of the accessory.
12