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 Michelle, 
dry climates will indeed cause very painful 
sparks.  I have a vacuum in my pottery studio and during the winter months 
keeping the area clean was a very painful  process. Finally, through a 
vacuum cleaner store, I ordered a grafite hose.  This has worked wonders 
and now I rarely get shocked even though our Moden heaters are out straight 
keeping the studio warm. 
  
The hose I ordered is about 30' long and cost about 
$60.  Well worth it in my book. 
  
Also, a really great vacuum to look into for horses 
is a Beam vacuum.  This is what I use in my clay studio and I can't say 
enough positive things about it.  Yes, they make grooming attachments for 
pets too.  Because I board my horses I haven't used it on my own equine 
companions but I know of many who do. The vacuum is installed outside and pvc 
pipe can be run into your stable.  With the canister outside you'll find 
it's very quiet. 
  
Tracy 
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