i dont think its a buy it for life item... but its damn awesome small and very convenient... i do have the pet one you are talking about and yea... i would buy it again... i suggest looking on ebay for those refurbished by the company they sell them there... for a steep discount.. and it might as well be new when you get it.. had mine 4 years now still going strong... but i do not think its a buy it for life item.... you will still have to replace the battery sooner or later... but i think this is reasonable....