Abstract: The hoist system of the instant invention is intended for use with an overhead support and includes an elongate bar disposed below the overhead support and extending in a generally horizontal direction. A lifting device is attached adjacent opposed ends of the bar for connecting the bar to the object to be lifted. At least one intermediate pulley is attached to an upper side of the bar intermediate the ends thereof. A fastening mechanism cooperating with the overhead support for affixing the system to the support is provided which includes a downwardly extending pulley. A winch mechanism is mounted on the bar and includes at least cable having one end thereof affixed to the bar and trained, serially, over the fastening mechanism pulley and under the intermediate pulley while the other end of the cable is secured to the winch mechanism. The winch mechanism is operable to lift the bar and the object connected thereto.

Abstract: A sling for a four-legged animal is provided. The sling includes the following components: a pair of longitudinally extending poles; a plurality of longitudinally spaced, transversely extending straps mounted between the poles; a centrally disposed web extending between adjacent transverse straps for supporting the belly of the animal; a pair of generally longitudinally extending leg straps mounted between the transverse straps, the transverse and longitudinal leg straps and the web collectively defining four leg openings and an udder/genital opening. The sling thus provides a means for safely raising an animal off the ground and for holding it there for extended periods without injury or discomfort to the animal.