Abstract: A self defense baton comprises a handle portion which includes a central portion and a housing member connected to one end of the central portion. A flashlight portion is connected to the other end of the central portion. At least one telescoping member is slidably disposed within the housing member. The telescoping member is spring loaded and retained within the housing member by a releasable latch. A ring is rotatably attached to the handle portion. To use, the handle portion is grasped with a finger of the grasping hand being inserted through the ring. The releasable latch is activated by the thumb of the grasping hand. A spring, disposed within the housing member, causes the telescoping member to slide out of the housing member thereby expanding the baton. The rotatably attached ring enables rapid manipulation of the baton without risking accidental loss of the baton during these manipulations. The ring may also double as a key ring without loss of maneuverability of the baton.

Abstract: A capsule for use in administering therapeutic agents to animals is made from a blend of(i) from 10-75% by weight of a material chosen from polyalkylene glycols of average molecular weight of from 2,000-20,000; and(ii) from 20-80% by weight of poly(ethylene oxide) of average molecular weight of from 80,000-1.times.10.sup.7.The preferred materials are polyethylene glycol of average molecular weight 3,000-5,000 and poly (ethylene oxide) of average molecular weight 300,000-800,000. It is possible to include therapeutic agents in the composition of the capsule as well as in its cavity. The capsules of this invention find particular application in the administering of trace elements, especially copper oxide needles, to animals.