I have had the DC17 Animal for about a year. I have 4 floors, 3 carpeted (stairs too) and the main floor hardwood with area rugs. I have always had at least 6 large dogs sharing their home with me. I have gone through NUMEROUS regular vacuums, most costing about 250 - 350 dollars each, lasting about 4-5 years and not performing that well. I plunged into the vacuum debate; Dyson vs. Oreck. Both spendy compared to the mass of vacuums (done with them) so I took time and researched. I had to evaluate WHO the reviews were being written by. (ie; one sales rep. vs. another.) Not saying that they would...