Abstract: The disclosed embodiments provide an apparatus and methods for assisting individuals in controlling respiratory rates. For example, a respiratory regulation apparatus is provided in the form of a plush animal toy that operates components to simulate the breathing rate of anxious individuals. The apparatus may include actuators that are controlled by a slotted cam that is dynamically rotated at varying speeds in a determined rotational direction. The actuators move inward and outward in relative directions to move a torso of the plush animal toy to simulate breathing. In certain aspects, actuators may expand outward while at the same time another actuator contracts inward to cause the torso to simulate realistic breathing movements. A processor controls the speed of the cam such that the simulated breathing of the animal toy apparatus can be reduced at a controlled rate to assist an individual in reducing their breathing rate to a calmer state.

Abstract: A selectively removable skin for a doll is provided. The skin may include a plush material which has at least one seam. The shape of the material may be essentially the same shape as the doll and be configured to fit snuggly on the doll so that if the doll moves, the skin does not shift on the doll. There may be an the opening which may be selectively closed by a fastener. There may also be at least one elastic portion coinciding with the neck of the doll. There may also be a locking mechanism that selectively secures the skin to the doll.

Abstract: An animatronic doll is disclosed. The doll, includes multiple motors, one or more of which controls conjoined movements of various parts of the doll and one or more of which controls individual parts of the doll. The doll may include a speaker for causing the duck to vibrate and/or it may include various sensors for user and environmental interaction.