Exercise Or Amusement Device Patents (Class 119/702)
-
Publication number: 20090056640Abstract: The invention relates to an animal exercise device, which is designed to challenge the natural instincts of animals, in particular dogs and cats, when hunting for food or toys. According to the invention, the food and toys are displayed and then disappear before the animal has caught them. The animal finally receives the food, but only after expending a certain amount of energy, thus mirroring nature.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2005Publication date: March 5, 2009Inventor: Fritz Gross
-
Patent number: 7469660Abstract: A combined dwelling and play area for cats and the like includes a base member that has an at least one spherical notch formed therein. The notch extends downwardly from a top surface and terminates above a bottom surface thereof. At least one saucer is seated within the at least one notch. A first housing is connected to the base member and has an open front face positioned along a longitudinal side thereof. A support shaft is conjoined to the housing and extends laterally outward therefrom. A plurality of novelty mobiles is tethered to the shaft and elevated above the base member. A vertically oriented scratch pole is coupled to the base member, and a pillow is seated within the housing. The scratch pole is spaced from the shaft and is statically coupled to a top surface of the base member.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Inventor: Annie Howden
-
Publication number: 20080230012Abstract: An animal entertainment device comprises a guide unit and a wheel that travels on the guide unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2006Publication date: September 25, 2008Applicant: JW PET COMPANY, INC.Inventors: Klaus Woltmann, Ryan Rutherford, Jonathan Willinger, Peter Ragonetti
-
Patent number: 7426903Abstract: A bird toy providing activity for a pet bird such as a parrot including an enclosure receiving a slide in which treats can be placed. The slide is retracted into the enclosure to prevent access to the treats and cannot be pulled out until the pet bird rotates one or more predetermined orientations whereat the slide can be pulled out to access the treats. Appendages are provided to enable gripping of the slide and enclosure to allow rotation and pull out of the slide.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Inventor: David F. Simon
-
Patent number: 7389748Abstract: An animal toy features the ability to connect two or more separate toys of varying shape, size, color, and/or texture, together to create larger and more complex toy systems. The animal toy allows an almost endless variety of toy systems to capture the interest as well as challenge and develop the animal's problem solving skills. The animal toys are either solid or include internal chambers for holding and ultimately dispensing food. When two or more toys with the internal chambers are combined the food may flow from the chamber of one toy into another toy several times before exiting the toy system. The increased problem of extracting the food challenges and develops the animal's skills. Morever, by combining solid and food dispensing toys in random combinations further increases the problem solving skills required to completely extract the food from the toy system.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2004Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Canine GeniusInventors: Alise Shatoff, Birte Haakansson
-
Patent number: 7373902Abstract: A device for amusing a cat or other pet is provided that has a housing having a top portion and a bottom portion, a motor disposed in the housing, a belt attached to the housing via an upper shaft and a lower shaft, a string having a first end attached to the belt and a second end extending freely from the belt, and means for activating the motor. In operation the motor rotates the belt causing the string to repeatedly fling outwardly from being hidden within the frame and amuse the cat. Methods for amusing a pet are also disclosed that comprise the steps of automating a string, whereby a free end of the string appears and disappears from view. These methods are preferably accomplished by attaching one end of the string to a rotating belt within a housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Inventor: Michele Levan
-
Patent number: 7367283Abstract: A pet exercise device having outer and inner shells having first and second apertures defined therein, respectively, is provided. The outer shell has a first raised edge extending from an internal surface of the outer shell, wherein the first raised edge extends around the periphery of the first aperture. The inner shell defines an interior compartment and is positioned within the outer shell to form a retaining chamber between the inner and outer shells. A second raised edge extends from an external surface of the inner shell and around the periphery of the second aperture. Further, the first and second apertures are non-coextensive, staggered or otherwise misaligned with one another so that the liquid or solids are retained within the retaining chamber and not allowed to pass through the second apertures and directly out of first apertures.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2004Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Inventors: Jodi F. Aboujaoude, Maria E. Aboujaoude, David D. Lalley
-
Publication number: 20080078334Abstract: A pet-related artwork kit comprising an artistic canvas, a supply of printing medium, a transparent sheet, a pet engagement device, and a container to hold the kit contents. The kit can also include an order form instructing a processing facility to transfer the artistic canvas image to other items and a container to hold and protect the pet-related artwork while being transported to the processing facility. The present invention also discloses a method of producing the pet-related artwork comprising the steps of placing the artistic canvas on a surface, putting paint on the artistic canvas, covering the paint and the artistic canvas with a transparent sheet, having a pet create impressions on the artistic canvas by manipulating the transparent sheet, and removing the transparent sheet from the artistic canvas.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2006Publication date: April 3, 2008Inventor: Tammy Zaiko
-
Patent number: 7270080Abstract: An animal treat dispensing assembly includes a base and a housing attached to and extending upwardly from the top side of the base. The housing has a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall. The housing has an open upper end defining a fill opening. The front wall has as dispensing opening therein. A pivot rod is positioned in the housing. A pivot member is pivotally coupled to the pivot rod. The pivot member has a top side that is planar. The top side abuts an upper edge of the dispensing opening when the top side is horizontally orientated. A panel is attached to the pivot member and extends outwardly of the dispensing opening. A plurality of animal treats is positioned in the housing, and the panel is moved downwardly so that one of the treats is dispensed outwardly through the dispensing opening.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Inventor: Matthew J. Kane
-
Patent number: 7246574Abstract: A pet toy capable of dispensing catnip or similar substance. The toy comprises a compartment for holding the substance. The toy also comprises a movement-promoting element operative to move the compartment so the substance, or an aroma of the substance, may pass through a sifting hole of the compartment. One embodiment of the toy comprises a rotating element, such as a ball, rotating about a horizontal axis within a larger body as a result of propelling the toy across a horizontal surface. The rotating element includes the compartment holding the substance so that some of the substance escapes the compartment as a result of the rotation of the rotating element. Various alternative embodiments of the invention are also described.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2004Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Aspen Pet Products, Inc.Inventor: Jack W. Renforth
-
Patent number: 7169008Abstract: An animal toy is configured to stimulate at least one sense of an animal during play by said animal. The toy includes a shell formed of a first pliable material and having an interior; a pouch formed of a second pliable material and contained within the shell during play; a play stimulation item wholly contained within the pouch and configured to issue an emission detectable through the pouch and the shell by at least one sense of said animal; an opening formed in said shell for admitting the pouch into said interior and having a margin; a hem formed along the margin; and, a draw string extending through and from the hem to draw the hem closed.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2004Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Inventor: Sharon A. Ritchey
-
Patent number: 7156054Abstract: An animal walker or conditioning system. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a horse walker or conditioner incorporating a direct drive hydraulic motor, the motor configured to provide a powered bearing surface to support and axially rotate a vertical shaft having laterally extending arms emanating therefrom, which arms can be utilized to direct a horse or other animal in a circular path about the vertical shaft. The unique design utilizes an off the shelf direct drive hydraulic motor and conventional power system, with the hydraulic power unit preferably situated away from the vertical shaft, and power and control lines running underground to the hydraulic motor supporting the vertical shaft.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Rick York
-
Patent number: 7146935Abstract: A method for training an animal to proceed through an enclosure begins with the act of providing a generally clear or translucent enclosure having a first end, which serves as an entrance and a second end, which serves as an exit. A trainer encourages the animal to enter the entrance and can walk alongside the enclosure allowing the animal to generally observe the trainer to reduce any apprehension and to generally encourage the animal to proceed through the enclosure. Subsequently, the clear or translucent enclosure is replaced with an opaque enclosure once the animal has gained sufficient experience and comfort with the clear and/or translucent enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Flexmaster Canada Ltd.Inventor: Melinda Donnelly
-
Patent number: 7144293Abstract: A toy comprises a three-dimensional body that can be compressed to actuate a squeaker chamber to move air through a squeaker device. The squeaker chamber is formed by an elongated resilient member in the toy body that can be actuated to operate the squeaker device from a location on the toy distal from the squeaker device. In one embodiment, the resilient member is one or more elastic bladders and in another embodiment the resilient member is one or more resilient tubes. The squeaker chamber may be of various configurations for a variety of toy shapes.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Premier Pet Products, LLCInventors: Charles D. Mann, Raymond J. Hedlund
-
Patent number: 7089720Abstract: An automated animal-training system is provided, which includes an enclosure device for the animal, an arrangement for adjustably fixing the location of the animal within the enclosure device, and an actuation mechanism for moving the automated animal-training system. In order to simulate real racing situations for the animals, the arrangement for adjustably fixing the location of the animal within the enclosure device is controlled by one or more motors movable on sliding rails. Furthermore, a mechanism is provided for suspending the animal in the training device in case the animal trips.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2002Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventor: Mehmet Kurt
-
Patent number: 7044084Abstract: A pet toy (20) made up of a wand (26) and a play object (22) flexibly coupled to an end of the wand (26) is taught. The wand (26) has a wand shaft (50) and a wand head (52) rigidly affixed to the end of the wand shaft (50). The wand shaft (50) has a predetermined shaft diameter (54). The wand head (52) has a base width (58) greater than the shaft diameter (54). A flexible coupling (24) flexibly couples the play object (22) to the wand (26). The flexible coupling (24) has a coupling pocket (74) encompassing the wand head (52). The coupling pocket (74) is configured so that the wand head (52) has limited free movement therein. Motion of the wand (26) by a human therefore imparts a complex motion to the play object (22). This complex motion emulates the motion of prey and stimulates the instinct of the pet.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2004Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Inventor: Sharon A. Ritchey
-
Patent number: 6966277Abstract: A reconfigurable modular play structure for animals including a base, a plurality of cylindrical support members, and one or more platforms to support an animal. The cylindrical support members are helically wrapped with a plurality of flexible line wrappings, allowing different colors and types of wrappings to be used in combination. Special access apertures and holes facilitate locking the line wrappings to the support members. One or more of the platforms or an upper portion of the structure may be rotated on a rotating connection. The structure may also include one or more play members held by an open spring or a soft flexible material playhouse for the entertainment of an animal.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2003Date of Patent: November 22, 2005Assignee: Epoch Design, LLCInventors: Monica DeRaspe-Bolles, Barry G. Moore
-
Patent number: 6935274Abstract: The pet toy consists of an inner elastomer ball having an inner ball wall, a squeaker mounted in the inner ball wall, an outer elastomer ball having an outer ball wall, an air hole mounted in the outer ball wall, the inner ball being within the outer ball. The outer ball protects the squeaker from dislodgement from the wall of the inner ball and protects the inner ball wall when the pet attacks the toy. The inner ball can be pushed through air hole so that the inner ball can be placed into the outer ball.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2003Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Inventor: Steven M. Rothschild
-
Patent number: 6892674Abstract: This invention features a toy, which emits variable sounds generated by singular and/or collective methods, comprising of an assemblage of a first material forming article body portion, hereinafter named as “toy body portion,” comprised of substantially elastomeric materials and formed hollow, and a second material forming article frame portion, hereinafter known as “cylindrical frame” comprised of substantially rigid materials. Said cylindrical frame further comprises an integrated sound tube device with associated sliding whistle component. An air aperture is formed within the tubular wall of said sound tube and positioned so as enveloped by the interior cavity of the toy body portion, whereby physical compression or expansive decompression of the toy body portion will directionally actuate air into and through said sound tube device. In its preferred embodiment, said toy body portion has said cylindrical frame located centrally through toy body portion and protruding through each side thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: N'Gen New Generation Innovations LLCInventors: Dmitrijs V. Dubinins, Kenneth A. Jellico
-
Patent number: 6848396Abstract: A pet toy formed from a section or sections of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe and/or tube, preferably white polyvinyl chloride PVC water sprinkler pipe, that is grooved longitudinally, at random intervals therearound, and its surface is heated, with an open flame such as a flame generated by a propane torch, to darken the surface to a shade or shades of brown and to roughen the surface. The pipe or tube is spot heated and bent at that heated spot into a desired toy shape, and one toy shape is has the pipe or tube ends aligned and are joined, providing a toy with an open center area that is suitable as a bird perch and is fitted with a hanger for suspending it and may be drilled to receive a cord or cords fitted therethrough that toy pieces, such as sections of colored wood, plastic or other materials, are threaded on.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2003Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: The Bird Toy Box, Inc.Inventors: Kathryn M. Carleson, Wendy Ricci
-
Patent number: 6837186Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a computerized treadmill 24 for dogs or other animals 12 wherein the treadmill is enclosed within transparent structural walls 16 having a door 28 hingedly 30 attached thereto to allow the dog to enter and exit for exercise. An overhead adjustable bar 18 is included for attaching a lease 38 thereto. A control console 20 is provided to allow the user 22 to set the parameters for the dog's 12 exercise session.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Inventor: Kazuto Terao
-
Patent number: 6789508Abstract: Disclosed is a small animal exercise device, suitable for allowing a small rodent or other small and trainable animal to be domesticated, and confined in a relatively small space while enjoying the benefits of exercise that accrue to mammals of all kinds. The exercise device includes a dish, a stand and a connecting assembly. The dish provides an effectively large and safe exercise surface, while physically fitting into the confined environment or small enclosure for small animals such as rodents and the like. The dish has an outer periphery and a raceway having a solid surface adjacent the periphery. The dish is rotatably connected to a stand, which elevates the dish above the horizontal surface upon which the stand rests, to allow the dish to rotate freely during rodent or other small animal exercise. The connecting assembly, includes among other things, a bearing assembly which fixedly, but rotatably connects the dish to the stand, more particularly, the distal end of the stand defines a bearing shaft.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Inventor: Martin Philip Hull
-
Patent number: 6786792Abstract: A stuffed toy (10) for play by an animal is taught. The stuffed toy (10) has an outer pliable shell (12) formed of a first fur (54), an inner pliable shell (56) formed of a second fur (54′) located within the outer pliable shell (12), a pouch (58) formed of a third fur (54″) located within the inner pliable shell (56), and a play-stimulation item (68) located within the pouch (58) to provide stimulation for play by the animal. The outer and inner pliable shells (12,56) form an interior cavity (14) having an opening (22) though the outer and inner pliable shells (12,56). A hook-and-loop fastener (72) is used to releasably seals the opening (22). The pouch (58) is configured to pass through the opening (22) and is contained within the interior cavity (14) during the play by the animal. The play-stimulation item (68) may be an olfactory-excitation material (catnip) or a sound-producing device (squeaker).Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Inventor: Sharon A. Ritchey
-
Patent number: 6739287Abstract: A plurality of elongated support members are curved in an arcuate configuration. In this manner an interior concave face and an exterior convex face are formed. Each support member resides in a plane with a first end and a second end and with a central extent there between. A plurality of bristles is provided. The first ends of the support members are coupled together and the second ends of the support members are coupled together.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2003Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Inventor: Dimitrios Sarantis
-
Patent number: 6715447Abstract: A cat scratching post that incorporates a clamping mechanism for secure and stable attachment to a receiving object like a doorjamb. A resilient main superstructure has an adhesive interface securing a surface material that is appropriate for cats to scratch or climb. A user of the scratching post can pry open the superstructure and clamp it onto a receiving object. The device is an improvement over other scratching posts because of its space saving implications, as virtually no floor area is required. No base is required to stabilize the device; stability is derived from the receiving object combined with the clamping force the scratching post provides. A detachable base element may be incorporated for freestanding use. Perch elements and hanging toys can be attached providing climbing, perching, and playing opportunities. (Two units of the invention can be clamped end to end to make a climbing area twice as long.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Inventor: Jason Bernard Haber
-
Patent number: 6663457Abstract: A stuffed toy (10) for play by an animal is taught. The stuffed toy (10) has an outer pliable shell (12) formed of a first fur (54), an inner pliable shell (56) formed of a second fur (54′) located within the outer pliable shell (12), a pouch (58) formed of a third fur (54″) located within the inner pliable shell (56), and a play-stimulation item (68) located within the pouch (58) to provide stimulation for play by the animal. The outer and inner pliable shells (12,56) form an interior cavity (14) having an opening (22) though the outer and inner pliable shells (12,56). A hook-and-loop fastener (72) is used to releasably seal the opening (22). The pouch (58) is configured to pass through the opening (22) and is contained within the interior cavity (14) during the play by the animal. The play-stimulation item (68) may be an olfactory-excitation material (catnip) or a sound-producing device (squeaker).Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Cats with an Attitude, Inc.Inventor: Sharon A. Ritchey
-
Patent number: 6662752Abstract: The present invention relates to an animal shelter comprising an enclosure having at least one opening for ingress and egress of an animal, and means for attaching an exercise disk to the shelter.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Holton Industries t/a Bio-ServInventors: Mark Bonner, R. Alan Bonner
-
Patent number: 6651590Abstract: Skeletal animal toys capable of rolling and bouncing comprise polyhedra or other skeletal structures which can be inscribed on an imaginary spherical or ellipsoidal surface, tori and linear members which form a cylinder with circular cross-section, or elliptical and linear members which form a cylinder with elliptical cross-section. The skeletal animal toy is formed of an elastomeric material, which is preferably natural rubber, synthetic natural rubber, or a blend of natural rubber or synthetic natural rubber and one of a plurality of blending polymers including butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber and ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer rubber.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: JW Pet CompanyInventors: Jonathan Willinger, Karen O. Winkler
-
Patent number: 6622657Abstract: A continuous watering device for small pets producing minimal noise and splashing, the watering device having a lower container for holding water and a submersible pump to pump water via a diverter tube into an upper reservoir. Water is filtered inside and flows from the upper reservoir onto a smooth and curved ramp, which supports the water as the water slides downward and into the lower container. The diverter contains a lower portion and an upper portion where lower portion connects to the pump and the upper portion directs the water inside the upper reservoir. The upper portion is angularly displaced from the diverter lower portion to direct water inside the upper reservoir bottom area to reduce turbulence and noise and to efficiently direct water through the filter.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2002Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: Doskocil Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Melaney Northrop, Scott A. Skurdalsvold
-
Patent number: 6622659Abstract: Sketelay animals toys capable of rolling and bouncing comprise polyhedra or other skeletal structures which can be inscribed on an imaginary spherical or ellipsoidal surface, torii and linear members which form a cylinder with circular cross-section, or elliptical and linear members which form a cylinder with elliptical cross-section. The skeletal animal toy is formed of an elastomeric material, which is preferably natural rubber, synthetic natural rubber, or a blend of natural rubber or synthetic natural rubber and one of a plurality of blending polymers including butadine rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber and ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer rubber.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: JW Pet Company, Inc.Inventor: Jonathan Willinger
-
Publication number: 20030159661Abstract: Disclosed is a small animal exercise device, suitable for allowing a small rodent or other small and trainable animal to be domesticated, and confined in a relatively small space while enjoying the benefits of exercise that accrue to mammals of all kinds. The exercise device includes a dish, a stand and a connecting assembly. The dish provides an effectively large and safe exercise surface, while physically fitting into the confined environment or small enclosure for small animals such as rodents and the like. The dish has an outer periphery and a raceway having a solid surface adjacent the periphery. The dish is rotatably connected to a stand, which elevates the dish above the horizontal surface upon which the stand rests, to allow the dish to rotate freely during rodent or other small animal exercise. The connecting assembly, includes among other things, a bearing assembly which fixedly, but rotatably connects the dish to the stand, more particularly, the distal end of the stand defines a bearing shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2003Publication date: August 28, 2003Inventor: Martin Philip Hull
-
Patent number: 6595160Abstract: To exercise a dog, a tennis ball throwing apparatus includes: (1) an open storage compartment for holding spare items such as spare tennis balls exposed to air for drying the ball; (2) a safety feature to prevent the dog exerciser from being used for throwing small sharp items; (3) a sling arrangement that permits easily throwing of balls a long distance; and (4) an apparatus that permits balls to be picked up without either bending down or touching them with the hands. The balls may be loaded in the storage compartment and later put in a pouch one by one to throw them without touching them. Balls that a dog retrieves may be picked up using the sling without touching the ball and it is automatically put into a storage compartment where it is exposed to air for drying purposes.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2000Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: SportsTec, Inc.Inventor: Michael M. Williamson
-
Patent number: 6578526Abstract: Disclosed is a small animal exercise device, suitable for allowing a small rodent or other small and trainable animal to be domesticated, and confined in a relatively small space while enjoying the benefits of exercise that accrue to mammals of all kinds. The exercise device includes a dish, a stand and a connecting assembly. The dish provides an effectively large and safe exercise surface, while physically fitting into the confined environment or small enclosure for small animals such as rodents and the like. The dish has an outer periphery and a raceway having a solid surface adjacent the periphery. The dish is rotatably connected to a stand, which elevates the dish above the horizontal surface upon which the stand rests, to allow the dish to rotate freely during rodent or other small animal exercise. The connecting assembly, includes among other things, a bearing assembly which fixedly, but rotatably connects the dish to the stand, more particularly, the distal end of the stand defines a bearing shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2001Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Inventor: Martin Philip Hull
-
Patent number: 6568353Abstract: A playhouse for cats provides a container with numerous perforations and an interior containing various mouse and other cat toys which may be accessed through the perforations by a cat's arm. The mouse toys may include a figure atop a moveable spring, a removable mouse, one or mice on a turntable, musical and sound mice, etc. Other cat toys can include balls which rattle when moved, and toys which can emit a variety of sounds based on a battery powered sound chip. The playhouse can be used to evaluate feline aggressiveness, docility and other traits for breeding and feeding, for psychological purposes, for exercise, for coordination, to relieve boredom, etc.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Inventor: Danny R. Van Sluis
-
Patent number: 6557494Abstract: A toy for an animal, the toy having a first flexible sheet having a first outer periphery; a second flexible sheet having a second outer periphery; and connectors for joining at least three portions of the first and second sheets, the portions being located adjacent to the first outer periphery of the first sheet and the second outer periphery of the second sheet, the connectors forming openings between each of the portions, and the connectors forming a cavity between the first flexible sheet and the second flexible sheet, the cavity being formed within the portions joined to one another, and the openings having a given length defined by the size of each of the connectors and the total number of the connectors; wherein the openings are sized to permit passage of a favorite object therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Inventor: Regina M. Pontes
-
Publication number: 20030056735Abstract: Disclosed is a small animal exercise device, suitable for allowing a small rodent or other small and trainable animal to be domesticated, and confined in a relatively small space while enjoying the benefits of exercise that accrue to mammals of all kinds. The exercise device includes a dish, a stand and a connecting assembly. The dish provides an effectively large and safe exercise surface, while physically fitting into the confined environment or small enclosure for small animals such as rodents and the like. The dish has an outer periphery and a raceway having a solid surface adjacent the periphery. The dish is rotatably connected to a stand, which elevates the dish above the horizontal surface upon which the stand rests, to allow the dish to rotate freely during rodent or other small animal exercise. The connecting assembly, includes among other things, a bearing assembly which fixedly, but rotatably connects the dish to the stand, more particularly, the distal end of the stand defines a bearing shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2001Publication date: March 27, 2003Inventor: Martin Philip Hull
-
Publication number: 20030051677Abstract: An animal hydrotherapy pool is described comprising a container for water having nozzle means in a wall of the container directing in use one or more jets of water into the water in the container. An extension to a wall of the container forms a housing in which is located pump means adapted to re-circulate water to and from the container via the nozzle means. Pump control means is also located in the housing thereby to be accessible in use to a person controlling an animal using the pool. A second pump draws water from near the surface of the water in the pool through a skimmer, and returns the water to the pool via a water treatment path. The latter comprises a heater, a sand filter, and an ozonator, and as described, all the water treatment devices are incorporated in the housing extension.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2002Publication date: March 20, 2003Inventors: Bradley Russell Smith, Catherine Elizabeth Smith
-
Patent number: 6513461Abstract: A harness device for assisting livestock to stand, including a dorsal band with a first, front end and a second rear end. An adhesive surface and a thin neck strip are attached to the first end. At the second end of the band are two elastic pieces, each of which includes adjustable ankle attachments in the form of transverse self-adhesive strips. A related method includes placing the band on the animal's back, with the front end of the band toward the front of the animal, and the second end of the band toward the rear of the animal, extending the neck strip about the neck of the animal and removably attaching same via the adhesive surface at the first end of the band, extending the first and second elastic members along the legs of the animal, and removably attaching, respectively, the first and second attachments about ankles of the animal.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2001Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Inventors: Josep Sala Prat, Nuria Marce Anglarill
-
Patent number: 6505576Abstract: A pet toy that projects a moving light beam in various directions to entertain a pet is provided. The pet toy comprises a hollow housing having an upper opening and a lower opening. A domed cover is pivotally attached to the housing and capable of closing the upper opening. The domed cover has a reflective material on an underside thereof. A light source is operatively received within the housing and capable of producing a beam of light directed upward through the upper opening. An electric motor is operatively received within the housing and capable of moving the light source. A power source is operatively received within the housing for powering the light source and the electric motor. A switch is located on the housing and movable to an on position allowing the power source to power the light source and/or the electric motor and an off position for preventing the power source from powering the light source and/or the electric motor.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2001Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Inventors: Barbara Nathanson, Jean Kersaint
-
Patent number: 6505577Abstract: A bird launcher for training dogs having a support frame, a pivot arm mounted on the support frame for pivotal movement between a bird loading position and a bird launching position, a magazine carried by the support frame for holding a plurality of birds to be launched by the pivot arm during successive movements of the pivot arm from the loading position to the launching position, a loader carried by the support frame for loading a bird from the magazine onto the pivot arm, and a power assembly such as a pressurized air supply carried by the support frame for pivoting the pivot arm with sufficient force to launch the bird by flinging it in an arc away from the pivot arm.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Inventor: Howard Gene Putnam
-
Patent number: 6490998Abstract: The device includes at least one oblong gripping element located at the periphery of a ball with which it is in contact, either indirectly via a covering element enclosing the ball, or directly by extending its external casing, or inner bladder or an element interposed between the two latter elements. The device has an elastic articulation between the gripping element and the ball, permanently returning the gripping element in a radial position relative to the ball center.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2001Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Inventor: Norbert Rocher
-
Publication number: 20020166513Abstract: A playhouse for cats provides a container with numerous perforations and an interior containing various mouse and other cat toys which may be accessed through the perforations by a cat's arm. The mouse toys may include a figure atop a moveable spring, a removable mouse, one or mice on a turntable, musical and sound mice, etc. Other cat toys can include balls which rattle when moved, and toys which can emit a variety of sounds based on a battery powered sound chip. The playhouse can be used to evaluate feline aggressiveness, docility and other traits for breeding and feeding, for psychological purposes, for exercise, for coordination, to relieve boredom, etc.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2001Publication date: November 14, 2002Inventor: Danny R. Van Sluis
-
Patent number: 6460483Abstract: A continuous watering device for small pets which produces minimal noise and splashing, the watering device having a lower container for holding water, a submersible pump to pump water to an elevated height, a upper reservoir to clean the water as it enters the reservoir, and a smooth and curved ramp to support water as it slides downward and into the lower container. The continuous watering device uses flowing water to attract small pets and to provide clean water by continuously circulating the water thereby reducing the growth rate of bacteria and fungus.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Doskocil Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Melaney Northrop, Scott A. Skurdalsvold
-
Patent number: 6457439Abstract: A bird perch apparatus for providing birds with an aerial toy that encourages climbing swinging. The bird perch apparatus includes a mounting assembly is adapted to be coupled to a support structure. A support assembly is rotatably coupled to the mounting assembly. A perch assembly is rotatably coupled to the support assembly such that the perch assembly is adapted for permitting perching of the bird. The perch assembly has a mounting portion is coupled to the support assembly. The perch assembly has a pair of annular rings that are diametrically coupled to the mounting portion such that each of the annular rings is adapted for permitting perching of the bird.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2001Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Inventor: Margaret E. Engelking
-
Patent number: 6412442Abstract: Described is a device that can be used to restrain household pets or other animals, as well as to assist in potty training household pets. Such device is portable, open, and easy to clean. Specifically, the device is a lightweight base upon which the household pet is free to move with a restraining piece such as a strap in the center of the base to which a leash can be attached. The base is sloped from the center to the edge, having a gutter about the periphery of the base. The gutter combined with the sloped base allows easy clean-up of any accidents the pet may have while on the base. The described devices could be used for many different animals and not just well-known domesticated household pets.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1999Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Inventor: David L. Bean
-
Patent number: 6318300Abstract: A pet toy includes a mount, a support, and an object. In one embodiment, a first end of the support is pivotally connected to the mount so that a second end of the support is permitted pivot about the mount, and the object, which is intended to entice a pet, is supported by a second end of the support. In another embodiment, the mount is adapted to contact as few as two external surfaces of a structure to which the mount is to be attached, a first end of the support is supported by the mount, and the object, which is intended to entice a pet, is supported by a second end of the support.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1999Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Assignee: Aspen Pet Products, Inc.Inventors: Jack Renforth, Carol Woodruff
-
Patent number: 6314913Abstract: A reelable cat toy for entertaining a cat. The reelable cat toy includes a rod measuring approximately 2½ feet long and having a first handle member at one end thereof and also having a plurality of eyelets spaced along and securely attached to the pole, and also includes a reel member having a housing which includes a first compartment and a second compartment being separated by a first end wall with the first compartment having an open end which is closeable with a cap member, the first compartment being adapted to store lures therein, the reel member further having a spool member journaled inside the second compartment, a spool release member engageable with the spool member, and a second handle member which is connected to the spool member, and further includes a plurality of lures storable in the first compartment and resembling a mouse, a spider, an edible worm, and a feather duster.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Inventors: Tom Lettau, Steven C. Bales
-
Patent number: 6223690Abstract: An animal habitat for housing animals which allows the animals to move between two or more modules or chambers. The animal habitat comprises a plurality of lower tier modules having passageways therebetween for allowing animals to move from a lower tier module to an adjacent lower tier module and a plurality of upper tier modules having passageways therebetween for allowing animals to move from one upper tier module to an adjacent upper tier module.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Inventor: Hong Ku Park
-
Patent number: 6209491Abstract: The pet entertainment apparatus comprises an open three dimensional framework which is covered with releasably secured material configured to provide a hammock within a top of the apparatus and an interior compartment covered by swingable flaps which depend from the top in areas between rope covered upstanding legs which elevate the top above a base of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Inventor: Jim Olson
-
Patent number: 6158391Abstract: A treat dispensing toy including a middle portion and pair of spaced disk portions of differing diameters, which are fixed to the middle portion. The toy is structured to enable treats or snacks to be dispensed from an interior chamber when an animal causes the toy to roll and rotate one or more revolutions. The disk portions may be removably fixed to the middle portion to facilitate filling and cleaning activities of the interior chamber, which is formed by the disk portions and a wall structure of the middle portion. The wall structure of the middle portion includes a treat dispensing opening to dispense treats in a controlled manner. The toy is intended to dispense treats, while engaging and entertaining an animal, and at the same time is arranged to maintain position within an inherently restricted play or holding area.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Inventor: Anthony Garret Simonetti