Ya, I get that crazy look from Dusty, too! Big eyes, can't tell if she's surprised, crazy, or just focused!
We're lucky--both JD and Dusty are pretty good about letting me clip their nails. This is a good thing, since Dusty will also launch herself up on our shoulders...or close to the shoulder, anyway, and then she claws her way up the rest of the way!
I've taken to wearing long-sleeved shirts all the time...
Hmmm...I don't believe I've ever used newspaper as a toy--will have to give that a try because it does seem like the most excellent shredding texture!