Well, I do Max's nails myself (thanks to the burrito wrap) and Speckles came to me declawed. So I guess I have an easier time with it. When I first got Max it took 2 wks before I could even pet him so it was about 3 months before I even attempted the nails. But once you do it you will get the hang of it. Just be as quick as you can. I do Max's front ones, then let him have a break for a while then pick him up and do the back ones. He has a short attention span and if I attempt all 4 paws he gets very annoyed and tries to bite.

Hang in there. Before you know you will be able to do it with your eyes closed. And I know what you mean about getting all emotional. When I took Max in for his teeth surgery I cried all the way home But he was just fine.