Hi Peachy! Although I've got a Rena 1 Canister in standby; my ABF is still to small to get me the water depth to use it (he likes to spread out with mouth at water level). Literally use the same method Jimifrog mentioned in post #2.

Getting a vacuum in a tank with low water level can be quite tricky but found great results by using the Top Fin "Small Gravel Vacuum" available at PetSmart (SKU ends in 277793). Just connect the long hose to nozzle (versus short one they recommend) and then to bulb and short hose, works like a charm every time. Follow that with a large cellulose sponge to grab remaining water and dirt. Since have no filter, I change all the water every time Stilgar poops; which currently is almost daily.