Abstract: A saddle tree including a progressive flex headplate, and a saddle constructed therewith, which are capable for properly fining a variety of different size horses. The headplate assembly is constructed of a plurality of flexible, and resilient overlapping layers which increase in length from top to bottom and which are secured together at the center point of the layers. The configuration supplies the headplate assembly with non-linear resistance, permitting progressive flexure of the legs of the headplate assembly while providing resistance in response to flexure of each leg, providing the headplate assembly with points that flex to properly fit horses of varying widths.

Abstract: A caveson which may be used with horses is disclosed in which the caveson allows for limited movement of the horse's mouth during breaking and training of the horse and thereafter. The caveson has a noseband constructed at least in part of a resilient material, allowing enough movement of the horse's mouth to prevent pain or discomfort while exerting progressive and constant pressure on the horse's nose when the horse opens its mouth or crosses its jaws, ensuring that the trainer or rider will maintain control and communication with the horse through the bit. The noseband together with an adjustable jaw strap form a circular segment that fits around the horse's nose and is maintained in position on the horse's head by a headstall which is connected at opposite ends to the circular segment and which is configured to run behind the horse's ears.

Abstract: A humane horse headgear having one or more portions, encircling and conforming to a horse's head, constructed, in whole or in part, of a resilient material, preferably exhibiting elastic properties, softness and conformability to the horse's head at one or more pressure points on the horse's head. A contoured crown piece and a curb device are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is a saddle girth to be used in conjunction with an English saddle. The saddle girth has a central portion separating two opposing straight segments, each of which extend from the central portion at an angle less than approximately forty-five degrees to form a chevron-like shape. This style of saddle girth inhibits the saddle from shifting along the back of the horse, thus preventing sores and chafing while providing safety for the rider.

Abstract: A saddle tree has a rigid pommel portion and a rigid cantle portion joined by at least one discrete flexible connector whereby the tree is able to flex centrally of the tree.

Abstract: A packaging and disposal system for sealing waste and related materials within flexible plastic tubing for odorless and sanitary disposal. Improvements in the latch, including the addition of a transverse mounted latch spring, and improvements in the support retention springs serve to increase the ability of the device to operate efficiently and effectively and reduce the potential of accidental spills or other exposure of the waste package. The latch requires two independent motions to actuate and incorporates a transversely mounted latch spring. The reduced cross-sectional area of the retention spring design concentrates force applied to the package to increase the effective holding ability of the system.