Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a training device is provided for training animals to perform or refrain from performing a target activity. The training device includes a reward dispenser that is capable of dispensing a reward to an animal being trained upon receiving a reward dispensing command. The reward dispensing command includes a hopper for holding a quantity of rewards. The hopper includes an entrance port for receiving rewards and an exit port through which rewards can be dispensed. The reward dispenser also includes a delivery assembly for controllably delivering rewards from the hopper to the exit port, the delivery members being placeable in contact with the rewards to be delivered. A motor member is provided that is capable of maintaining the delivery members in a static position to prevent the delivery of a reward, and moving the delivery member to deliver at least one reward to the exit port. The delivery member includes at least one bristle-containing member.

Abstract: A system and method for treating pets, the system comprising: a content provider to provide video and audio content adapted for treating a pet; a video and audio output device for playing the video and audio content; and a feedback interface for providing indications to the content provider about behavior of the pet, wherein the content provider is to adapt the provided content according to the received indications. The method comprising playing video and audio content by a video and audio out-put device, the content comprising: an image adapted for treating a pet; and a sound adapted for treating a pet; receiving indications about behavior of the pet; and adapting the played content according to the received indications.

Abstract: An intelligent pet-feeding device is disclosed, which comprises: a frame, configured with at least one opening; a storage tank, for storing at least one kind of food while enabling each kind of food to be transported out of the frame from it corresponding opening; a communication module, capable of performing a wireless communication with an operator at a remote end; an imaging module, for capturing images and thus generating image signals accordingly; an audio transceiver module, for receiving and transmitting audio signals; and a central processing unit, electrically connected to the communication module, the imaging module and the audio transceiver module for processing signals received thereby and generated therefrom.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are an animal training apparatus for locating a collar transceiver using a Global Positioning System (GPS), and a method of controlling the the same. The animal training apparatus includes a portable device, and a collar transceiver. The portable device includes a portable device GPS reception unit, a key input unit, a portable device control unit, a display unit, and a portable device wireless communication unit. The collar transceiver includes a collar wireless communication unit, a collar GPS reception unit, a photodetector, a light output unit, a beep tone output unit, and a collar control unit.

Abstract: Methods for producing ultrasonic sound emissions from wind turbines, active systems for emitting ultrasonic sounds from wind turbines, and wind turbines are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes operating the wind turbine with an ultrasonic sound emitting device mounted on or within a component of the wind turbine, and receiving in a controller at least one indicator. The method further includes determining if an operating condition exists based on the at least one indicator, and supplying a fluid flow through an outlet of the ultrasonic sound emitting device such that an ultrasonic sound emission is produced by the ultrasonic sound emitting device if the operating condition exists.

Abstract: One or more sound producers disrupt auditory communications among animals in a defined locale. The sound is defined by (i) a frequency range commensurate with a communication frequency range used by at least one species to carry out auditory communications, (ii) colored noise in the frequency range, and (iii) a sound level of the colored noise in the frequency range at a perimeter region of the defined locale not to exceed approximately a peak sound level associated with auditory communications of one or more species.

Abstract: This feedback collar (“FC”) is an all-inclusive training, health and accurate activity tracking unit for pets that directly pairs with a pet owner's smart phone, tablet, or other computer-like device that acts as a primary logging unit (“PLU”) for storing, accessing and managing data. The FC utilizes an array of sensors, radios and transmitters for logging and communicating information between one or more FCs and one or more PLUs. Utilizing the FC as a part of a smart electronic pet collar system (“SEPCS”), the owner will be able to access a history of the FC data from their phone, upload the data to a centralized web server, and share the data with other owner's.

Abstract: An animal deterrent device that generally includes a casing, a sensor, a power source and a deterrent means source. The animal deterrent device is used to provide protection to a target site, such as a carcass or part of a carcass left at or near the kill site from predatory animals and/or scavengers. Other uses for the device include preventing animals from disrupting trash or garbage receptacles or for preventing animals from gaining access to campsite rations, food, a temporary carcass or parts of a carcass storage area, or trash.

Abstract: One embodiment of an animal behavioral control apparatus includes a cartridge and a head. The cartridge contains pressurized gas. The head is coupled to the cartridge and includes a body and an actuator. The body has a first passage that can communicate with the pressurized gas. The body also has a bore. The actuator extends through the bore and has a second passage. When the animal behavioral control apparatus is in a first state, the first passage and the second passage are not in communication with each other. And, upon actuation of the actuator, the animal behavioral control apparatus is brought to a second state in which the first passage and second passage are in communication with each other.

Abstract: A remotely activated reward dispenser. The remote dispenser delivers consumable rewards in response to a trigger signal from a remote triggering device. The reward dispenser uses a two stage delivery system to prevent unintentional release of the consumable reward. A vibration stage moves a portion of the consumable reward from a reservoir to a staging platform without crushing the consumable reward. The second stage transfers the consumable reward from the staging platform to an area accessible by the animal. A vibration damping system reduces the noise generated by the reward dispenser. An adjustable transition varies the feed rate for the consumable reward.

Abstract: A gundog training tool prevents gun shyness by gradually allowing a pup to adapt to the sound of a gunshot. A pop gun shoots treats upon creating a simulated gunshot so that the dog grows used to the sound of a gunshot and creates positive reinforcement rewarded by the treat. As the pup learns, a charge in a housing is introduced to provide a simulated gunshot that expels a treat that trains the dog to feel excitement at the sound and smell of a gunshot. The size of the charge adjusts to create louder simulated gunshots as the pup learns so that the pup is prepared for introduction to actual gunshots, such as from a shotgun shooting at a bird.

Abstract: A wind turbine may include a tower, a nacelle mounted on the tower and a rotor coupled to the nacelle. The rotor may include a hub and at least one rotor blade extending from the hub. In addition, the wind turbine may include a nozzle mounted on or within the tower, the nacelle or the hub. The nozzle may include an inlet and an outlet. Moreover, the nozzle may be configured to accelerate a flow of fluid through the outlet such that an ultrasonic sound emission is produced by the nozzle.

Abstract: A custom-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined containment area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system, which is easy to set up and use, includes at least three base units and at least one collar and, preferably, a remote controller. A virtual fence is defined around the containment area, as well as around optional exclusion zones within the containment area, during system set up through communication between the base units and a trackable device as the user walks around the desired border. Visualization software enables the user to verify that the location of the fence is as desired and that the system is operating properly using a computing device having a display screen. In use, the system employs improved filtering of consecutive distance measurement values taken between the base units and the collar to discount errant measurement values in terms of their contribution to the current calculation of the dog's location.

Abstract: A system and method for treating pets, the system comprising: a content provider to provide video and audio content adapted for treating a pet; a video and audio output device for playing the video and audio content; and a feedback interface for providing indications to the content provider about behavior of the pet, wherein the content provider is to adapt the provided content according to the received indications. The method comprising playing video and audio content by a video and audio out-put device, the content comprising: an image adapted for treating a pet; and a sound adapted for treating a pet; receiving indications about behavior of the pet; and adapting the played content according to the received indications.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for monitoring the movement of an animal. An animal transceiver unit is placed on the animal for transmitting and receiving signals. A base transceiver unit for transmitting and receiving signals relative to the animal transceiver unit is operated to monitor relative movement of the animal transceiver unit and the base transceiver unit. An indication of the relative distance between the base transceiver unit and the animal transceiver unit is provided in response to signal communication between the animal and base transceiver units.

Abstract: An animal training device and system which uses a voltage to frequency conversion technology (VFC) providing the capability to adjust in gradual incremental levels upward and downward for consistent and individual electronic control of separate output to an animal undergoing training to learn new behaviors which are desired by its owner/handler/trainer. The device is contained in a housing which is worn around the neck of an animal by means of a collar strap or attached to a harness that properly fits onto an animal. The primary use is with dogs, but all kinds of domestic animals may be trained using this device. This VFC technology is offered in a variety of electronic platforms.

Abstract: A custom-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined containment area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system, which is easy to set up and use, includes at least three base units and at least one collar and, preferably, a remote controller. Each of the base units and the at least one collar includes a component for reducing clock speed variation between the base and collar units, preferably to +/?5 ppm, to effectively eliminate communication errors between the base and collar units.

Abstract: A custom-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined containment area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system, which is easy to set up and use, includes at least three base units and at least one collar and, preferably, a remote controller. Each of the base units and the at least one collar includes a TCXO for reducing clock speed variation between the base and collar units, preferably to +/?5 ppm, to effectively eliminate communication errors between the base and collar units.

Abstract: A radial-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system includes a base unit and at least one collar, and is easy to set up and use. Each of the base unit and the one collar include a temperature compensated crystal oscillator for reducing clock speed variation between the base and collar units, preferably to +/?5 ppm, to effectively eliminate communication errors between the base and collar units.

Abstract: A bark deterrent apparatus with an internal vibration sensor. The probeless bark deterrent apparatus uses an internal mechanical vibration sensor that detects vibrations induced in the housing. The probeless bark deterrent apparatus eliminates the external probe used in conventional bark deterrent devices to pick up vibrations at the dog's throat and communicate them to a mechanical vibration sensor to be eliminated while still allowing accurate bark detection.

Abstract: A radial-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system includes a base unit and at least one collar, and is easy to set up and use. Each of the base unit and the one collar include a component for reducing clock speed variation between the base and collar units, preferably to +/?5 ppm, to effectively eliminate communication errors between the base and collar units.

Abstract: A remotely activated reward dispenser. The remote dispenser delivers consumable rewards in response to a trigger signal from a remote triggering device. The reward dispenser uses a two stage delivery system to prevent unintentional release of the consumable reward. A vibration stage moves a portion of the consumable reward from a reservoir to a staging platform without crushing the consumable reward. The second stage transfers the consumable reward from the staging platform to an area accessible by the animal. A vibration damping system reduces the noise generated by the reward dispenser. An adjustable transition varies the feed rate for the consumable reward.

Abstract: A pet food may be packaged in a container having at least one rigid, metallic wall. When shaken, the pet food may strike the rigid, metallic wall, creating a unique auditory stimulus that is appealing to many pets. The pet food may be a routine diet, a treat, or a supplement, and may be dry or semi-moist.

Abstract: A leash held at one end by a trainer and attached at the other end to a coupler which attaches to either a harness or collar secured to the body of an animal, the coupler having therein an RF transmitter that transmits a signal consisting of one or more pulsed sequences dependent on the actuation of a switch that activates upon sensing a pulling force exerted between the animal and the trainer, said magnitude of force dependent on a spring, housed within the coupler and having an associated preset tension, wherein the RF transmitted signal is received by a receiver and a transducer located in an independent correction collar that transforms the received signal to a corresponding one or more applied electrical or mechanical pulsed forces to the bodily part of the of the animal secured by the correction collar.

Abstract: Systems and methods of desensitizing an animal to an anxiety inducing event, including an output unit to communicate with a media player to output a conditioning media signal and an anxiety inducing media signal, a conditioning element dispenser to dispense a conditioning element, a detector to determine when an animal has taken the conditioning element, and a control module to selectively control operation of the output unit and the conditioning element dispenser to cause the conditioning element dispenser to dispense a first conditioning element in association with the media player outputting the conditioning media signal. The output unit can cause the media player to output the anxiety inducing media signal in association with the conditioning media signal, and the control unit can cause the conditioning element dispenser to dispense a second conditioning element from the conditioning element dispenser in association with the anxiety inducing media signal.

Abstract: An animal bed includes a plurality of elongate frame members, a plurality of corner fittings coupling the plurality of elongate frame members to form a frame, bedding supported by the frame, and at least one support supporting the frame above an underlying substrate. Each of at least first and second corner fittings among the plurality of corner fittings has a passage formed therethrough that receives therein a corresponding one of the elongate frame members.

Abstract: A process for deterring behavior of pets by placing a device on an object to deter pets from getting on said object, without causing pain or risking harm to said pets, where the device is a laminate of a reflective plastic layer having a thickness of about 0.5 to 10.0 mils and capable of making a sound when the sheet is flexed, and a decorative fabric layer, where the layers are joined together to form the device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a collar apparatus for animal training with a length adjustable leash. The collar apparatus applies a vibration or an electrical stimulation to an animal while automatically adjusting a length of a leash connected to an animal's body. Accordingly, it is possible to train the animal to desirably act by applying the electrical stimulation or the vibration to the animal through adjusting the length of the leash connected to the animal's body when the animal acts with undesirable behavior.

Abstract: A controller of a training system is disclosed. In at least one embodiment of the invention, a controller defines an inner curved surface and includes a strap or clip so that the controller may be worn by the user comfortably and securely on either the backside of the hand, on the fingers, in the palm of the hand, on a wrist, arm or leg. The controller includes programmable control elements that allow a user to specify what functions are activated on a trainer by selection or depression of the control elements. In one embodiment, the controller may be programmed via a remote computing unit such as a computer or a smart phone. Alternatively, the controller can be programmed manually.

Abstract: A treat dispenser having a sound producing element that may be activated in connection with dispensing treats from the dispenser. The treat dispenser may include a telescoping member and a housing member that may be displaced to dispense treats and emit a sound (e.g., click) from the sound producing element. The treat dispenser may be gripped by a user wherein the user may actuate the treat dispenser with one hand. The treat dispenser may be used in the training of an animal (e.g.

Abstract: A rat guard and method utilizing a flexible shield affixed to a plastic sheath positioned on a mooring line to prevent entry onto or exit from the ship by vermin. An electric grid is positioned on an insulated pad on the sheath which is electrically connected to the shield for receiving power from an acoustical generator also connected to the shield and spaced therefrom. The acoustical generator directs ultrasonic acoustic signals in a variable frequency range toward the shield to frighten rats or other vermin therefrom. Should the acoustical signals not deter the vermin, the electric grid will shock any vermin making contact therewith to cause harm and frighten. The shield provides another obstacle to prevent advancement and is affixed to the sheath on the mooring line. The shield is flexible and remains in place during high winds and other adverse weather conditions.

Abstract: A mat system is provided for a pet. The mat system includes a mat having a pet side. The mat is configured to be positioned on a ground surface such that the pet side of the mat is exposed for receiving at least a portion of a pet thereon. The mat includes a pressure-sensing switch configured to be activated when the pet applies a predetermined amount of pressure to the mat. The mat system also includes an input module configured to accept an input from a person, and a playback module operatively connected to the input module and operatively connected to the pressure-sensing switch. The playback module is configured to play audio that represents the input. The playback module is configured to play the audio that represents the input upon activation of the pressure-sensing switch.

Abstract: A mat system is provided for a pet. The mat system includes a mat having a pet side. The mat is configured to be positioned on a ground surface such that the pet side of the mat is exposed for receiving at least a portion of a pet thereon. The mat includes a pressure-sensing switch configured to be activated when the pet applies a predetermined amount of pressure to the mat. The mat system also includes an input module configured to accept an input from a person, and a playback module operatively connected to the input module and operatively connected to the pressure-sensing switch. The playback module is configured to play audio that represents the input. The playback module is configured to play the audio that represents the input upon activation of the pressure-sensing switch.

Abstract: According to the invention, a system for stimulating eating by an animal is disclosed. The system may include a primary unit and a secondary unit. The primary unit may be configured to be at least partially supported by a rear portion of the animal's spine. The secondary unit may be coupled with the primary unit and configured to be coupled with a top dorsal portion of the animal's tail. The primary unit may include a first power supply, a processor powered by the first power supply, a second power supply, and a speaker powered by the second power supply and controlled by the processor. The secondary unit may include a vibration generation device powered by the second power supply and controlled by the processor, and a pressure generation device powered by the second power supply and controlled by the processor.

Abstract: Described is a counter-conditioning device and method for desensitizing an animal to an anxiety inducing sound and for minimizing a user's required involvement in such desensitization. The device and method are for automatically conditioning an animal that exhibits anxiety in response to the occurrence of a particular sound such that the animal learns to anticipate a treat upon the occurrence of the sound.

Abstract: An animal training apparatus with multiple receiver control function is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a single transmitter and multiple receivers corresponding to the respective animals. The transmitter includes a plurality of level adjustment switches for setting shock levels of the respective receivers. When the volume of a level adjustment switch corresponding to a desired receiver is changed, a transmitter control unit stores a shock level data into a memory. An ID code corresponding to the receiver is attached to the shock level data of a selected receiver. The shock level data with the ID code is transmitted to the receivers. The receivers receive an RF signal that includes the ID code and shock level data, and generate electrical shock to be applied to the animal when the received ID code is identical to a stored ID code.

Abstract: A process for deterring behavior of pets which includes providing a device comprising a reflective metalized plastic sheet having a thickness of about 0.5 to 10.0 mils, having a reflective and non-reflective side and capable of making a sound when the sheet is flexed by pressure from a pet, a fibrous layer, and a decorative fabric layer, where the layers are joined together to form the device, and the reflective side of said reflective plastic layer is oriented outward, where the device is capable of being folded or rolled-up, and when placed on an object, the device deters pets from getting on said object.

Abstract: A gesture-based animal trainer is provided. The gesture-based animal trainer is configured to be used by a person that provides gesture commands to an animal. As used herein, the term “gesture commands” refers to gestures that are each associated with a respective animal training command, wherein a gesture is defined as a selected group of movements performed by a person. The gesture-based animal trainer detects whether the person performs a gesture command and provides a stimulus to the animal in accordance with the gesture command. Upon the animal associating the respective stimulus with the gesture command, the gesture-based animal trainer allows the animal to receive the gesture command regardless of whether the person is within the animal's line of sight.

Abstract: Systems and methods for training animals not to pull excessively on leads. Some systems include a tension detector, a first stimulator adapted to emit a first stimulus, a second stimulator adapted to emit a second stimulus that is different than the first stimulus, and a controller adapted to actuate the emission of the first stimulus in response to the tension in the lead exceeding a predetermined force and to actuate the emission of the second stimulus in response to the tension in the lead exceeding the predetermined force for a predetermined length of time. Some methods include detecting that a tension in the lead exceeds a predetermined force, automatically emitting the first stimulus, and if the tension in the lead exceeds the predetermined force for a predetermined length of time, automatically emitting the second stimulus.

Abstract: A non powered, canine barking suppression device that can rapidly altering a dog's behavior so as to visibly reduce anxiousness and unwanted barking. The device subjects the dog to random vibrations and audible tones generated by an enclosed tuning fork that is worn around the dog's neck. The tuning forks when struck, emit a selected frequency selected for a specific purpose and or specific breed of canine. This frequency lies between 0 and 200,000 Hz, which is the range of sound that has been shown that most canines can hear. Since it is non powered it is not prone to failure in wet or cold environments, is durable and inexpensive. The device has claims of additional therapeutic properties and the general physical structure has applications elsewhere, although the preferred embodiment and best mode are directed to stopping unnecessary barking.

Abstract: A pet training apparatus comprising a closed cylindrical container having first and second walls connected to a cylindrical sidewall, wherein the interior surfaces of the first, second, and cylindrical walls define an cylindrical interior volume with a minimum inner diameter and a longitudinal axis, and a plurality of metallic objects with said interior volume. In the preferred embodiment, the metallic objects are spheroids (e.g., BBs or bearings), with each spheroid of being identical in size, shape, and density.

Abstract: An electromechanical horn having a sound generating system including a piezoelectric speaker generates a series of short, audible sound signals in a repetitive pattern, the generated sound signals having fundamental frequencies with associated harmonic component frequencies and decibel levels that fall within a frequency range of greatest hearing sensitivity of the animal to disperse or deter an aggressive animal in a non-detrimental manner. The generated sound signals have fundamental frequencies with associated harmonic component frequencies that fall within a frequency range of from about 3 kHz to about 10 kHz, and decibel levels in a range of from about 75 dB to about 115 dB (SPL) at 1 meter. The horn device can be hand-held, attached to a user's belt or clothing, or removably attached to a bicycle, motorcycle, stroller, or other conveyance or object and can be actuated while attached or quickly removed and actuated when needed.

Abstract: A radial-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system includes a base unit and at least one collar, and is easy to set up and use. Through improved filtering of consecutive distance measurement values taken between the base unit and the collar, errant measurement values are discounted in terms of their contribution to the current estimate of the dog's distance from the base unit. These filtering techniques, in combination with improved signal strength and antenna diversity in the communication between the base unit and the collar, improve the accuracy and consistency with which the dog's distance from the base unit is tracked so that unwanted corrections are not administered to the dog.

Abstract: A phone for pets and pet owners is taught which allows the owner to call the house and “talk” to the pet. The owner can then see a video image of the pet in front of the pet phone to verify presence and happiness. The device can also present the owner's scent to the pet and deliver treats on remote command. In some embodiments, the pet can initiate the phone call.

Abstract: The animal containment apparatus provides a stand alone apparatus that may be used singularly or in plurality. Each apparatus has an adjustable angle sensor that may be set to encompass any angle up to about 180 degrees. Each sensor senses incursion of an object, alive or otherwise, into its set range area. Animals, people, or even propelled objects are sensed. A key feature is that sensed objects do not have to wear any sort of device in cooperation with the apparatus. Sensation of such objects and life forms trigger each apparatus to emit a user recorded sound. The sound may be a command or any other chosen recording. Of significant advantage is that the recorder/sound interface provides for an animal's master to record commands in a voice and structure as recognized by the animal.

Abstract: Can the Barking Dog is an audible device that individuals can use to train their dogs to refrain from barking uncontrollably. This item comprises a small metal aluminum container that has loose material (media) inside to create a jarring audible noise. Users simply shake the device creating a noise that stops a dog from barking. The container may be coated in rubber for increased durability. The device may have a wrist loop attached to the top making it easy for users to carry the device while walking a dog. The loose materials may be metal marbles or other items that create a metal-on-metal sound that is effective in capturing a dog's attention. The device may be designed with a button-operated component that compresses the loose material allowing users to silence the device in between uses. Further, the dog-bark inhibiting and training device includes a kit and a method of use.

Abstract: An electronic device and transmitter allowing animal owners to locate their animals by a non-verbal audible output signal and a visual output signal. A method for training animals to elicit a desired behavior based upon stimuli emitted from an electronic device. The electronic device and method enable animal owners to quickly find their animals that might not otherwise respond to verbal commands.

Abstract: A cat's collar has mounted on it a device (10) which incorporates an accelerometer (15), a microprocessor (16), a battery (14) and a loudspeaker (12). The accelerometer (15) constantly monitors the position of the cat's head relative to its spine. When the cat's head ceases to move up and down and from side to side while the cat is moving forward, the cat is in stalking mode, and the microprocessor actuates an audible alarm to warn the intended prey.

Abstract: A device designed to prod livestock is intended to create an audible sound to aid in the controlled movement of animals. The device takes the form of a long pole comprising an upper end provided with a comfortable handle and a wrist strap and a lower end provided with a whistle. To use, the user would hold the device by the handle in one hand and whip it in a fast, circular motion, causing the whistle to make a sound. When done near an animal, the sound will cause the animal to move away, thus allowing the user to control the movement of the animal. The device is suitable for use by farmers, ranchers, auctioneers, herdsmen, or anyone who loads or moves livestock.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for injecting veterinary products to at least one bird by intramuscular injection, wherein said injection(s) can be carried out in the area of at least one muscle in the vicinity of a bone having a detectable shape in the body of said poultry, said device comprising: a retention member with means for bracing said detectable bone, at least one hole being formed in said retention member; at least one injection needle, said needle(s) being movable across said opening(s); characterized in that the retention member has: an anatomic shape that conforms to a portion of the body of said poultry and inside which is provided said means or bracing the detectable bone, said anatomic shape including a bearing surface for said body at said muscle; at least two contact sensors to be actuated by said poultry and provided on the anatomic shape with at least one on the bearing surface, said opening(s) being provided between said sensors.