Abstract: A liquid filtering apparatus which reduces or eliminates the need for regular manual cleaning or backwashing. Backwashing of the filter occurs automatically in response to sensed conditions of filtering. The filtering apparatus includes a chamber, and a filter element in the chamber, a valve for directing liquid through the filtering element in a first direction to filter the liquid. The valve reverses the direction of liquid flow through the filtering element when excessive resistance to flow through the filter element occurs.

Abstract: A feeding apparatus for animals, such as dogs or cats, has an inclined platform and a hingedly connected lid which seats on the upper surface of a food container to close the container. When a weight is applied to the platform such as when an animal stands upon the platform, the lid pivots to an open position as the platform moves downwardly to provide access to the contents of the container.

Abstract: A syringe for administering a medicament having a barrel provided with a needle attachment member to which a needle may be mounted and which is retained by a catch at one end of the barrel, and a plunger which is movable in the barrel to expel medicament through the needle attachment member and needle. The plunger is hollow and contains a vacuum and is provided with a gripping member at one end which closes one end of the plunger and which when the plunger is advanced can engage the needle attachment member to releases its catch and withdraw the needle attachment member and mounted needle into the plunger.