what sort of upright vacuum cleaner should I buy to deal with pet hairs?

As a pet owner of both cats and dogs.........

The best vacuum I've found is the Oreck.

They're very lightweight and powerful.

There are lots of different types of vacums you could use but I would suggest the Dyson DC15 Animal Upright Vacuum,

this is the description-

Unique construction allows it to twist and turn, giving it the ability to glide into awkward spaces that are usually missed. Telescopic wand instantly releases and expands at the touch of a button to extend cleaning reach. Features Dyson® Root Cyclone™ technology which doesn't lose suction.

Root Cyclone™ technology to maintain constant suction

Powerful upright vacuum for pet hair

Telescope wand extends to the desired length, then retracts again for easy storage

Lifetime HEPA filter and washable pre-motor filter provides highest level of filtration

Mini turbine head removes pet hair from upholstery, stairs and auto interiors

Low reach floor tool cleans under furniture

Dyson® Carpet Care Kit helps keep carpets looking new

Hygienic and quick to empty - you don't have to touch the dust, just push the button

No extra costs - no bags or filters to buy

I just read the other day that Dyson makes a vac designed specifically for pet hair. My son swears by the brand and since I already own an Oreck, Eureka, and a Kenmore, I plan to give it a try. I have two dogs and 3 cats...thank goodness the horses stay outdoors! The Dyson is pricey, but well worth it if it does the job.

Depends on how much carpet you have. I have 2 rugs and I use a baggless/cordless vacuum that I bought for about $40 at Wal-Mart. Its small and easy to move around since I can unplug it and I think the bagless ones are easier to use and empty. I follow up my cleaning up with a lint roller.

Oreck is the only one I have found that works with pet hair. It is guaranteed for 21 years and is very easy to get serviced once a year.

get a bagless one with a hepa filter on it. works well for my pets (2 cats and a dog...lots of hair). Bagless because I have to empty the canister every time i vacuum and this way you can ensure that you don't have a full bag that won't pick up as much hair.

If there is a Walmart or Sams around you go get a Commercial Eureka they are about $98 and they are excellent i have a German Shepherd and two other dogs and they shed horribly and it picks up every bit of hair and never clogs.

I have an indoor dog and I love my oreck vaccum cleaner. It works great even on hard floor and it so light I can easily carry it upstairs.

I've got an Oreck. Not cheap but I have 3 dogs and a cat.

I have both the industrial model Royal & Kirby - they do great jobs - but wifey hates them because they are cast aluminim & heavier then Hoover plastic. THe royal really sucks !