I currently have a little Dirt Devil that I bought last year for around $40. It serves its purpose, but the screw that holds the handle to the body has fallen out and I have no idea where it has gone to. Also, with a dog and cat (and fiance, haha) who shed A LOT, I am thinking I need to get something a little more heavy duty. I would love a Dyson, but can't bring myself to spend that much on a vacuum right now.

I would use the Dirt Devil and replaced the screw. Cheap fix and can be purchased anywhere. I have pets and my Dirt Devil works like a charm and I have had it a long time. I got rid of my older, larger Hoover due to weight and inability to get as close into the corners as I liked even with attachments. IMHO

I know Dyson can be pricey but I will never buy another brand again.

I have an Oreck. It is lightweight, has a bag and picks up like a wonder. I have a German Shepherd (I used to have two) who sheds year round but blows her coat twice a year. This is the only vacuum that has been able to keep up. Also, I have severe allergies and I find that having a bag is much better.

I know it is hard to spend alot on a vacuum but it really is worth it to spend the money. I use mine more than once a day and it has definitely paid for itself.

I have two Dysons. One of the big ones we got when we had the big hairy dog. Then I saw the cordless one and that is my new favorite. Not cheap, but, it makes me very happy to be able to do what I want without worrying with a cord. There have been many discussions on this topic recently, so if you feel like it, you can use the search function for even more opinions. If it just took a screw and you were happy with what you have, I would just replace the screw.

I have a Kenmore canister and it works well, at least my DH says it does. lol Me- not so intimately familiar with the beast of dusty burden. When I do need to use it, I like that it is not super heavy AND the handle extends which is great for my back problem.

4 longhaired cats, 1 short haired cat, 1 longhaired dog and 1 longhaired me! (I think I may shed more than the cats!) I have a Dyson and wouldn't go any other way. Yeah the price of em will put you in sticker shock but they are wonderful vaccuums. If and when this one goes to the big vaccuum cleaner dustbin in the sky I will replace with another Dyson.

I have a Dyson. I love it. So much power....it will pick up anything! Worth the $$

I have a wonderful rainbow. Best vacuum on the market. They are quite expensive. But worth every penny.

I have a cheap Bissell bagless upright with tools. I think I paid about $70.00 for it at Walmart and it will last a few more months (I have had it about a year) then I get to replace it. I don't have any special needs so this does everything I need it to.