Abstract: The present invention relates to a cushioning device for supporting a large animal such as a cow or a horse. The cushioning device comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, said top surface and bottom surface forming a chamber, and an amount of a gelatinous filling material disposed within the chamber. The present invention relates also to methods of transporting and installing a cushioning device for supporting a large animal. The method comprises transporting the cushioning device and a compound capable of creating a gel upon contact with a liquid may be delivered separately to the site. At the remote site the compound may be disposed within the chamber and the chamber may then be filled with an amount of liquid to create the gel within the cushioning device. The compound may also be delivered to the site already disposed within the chamber.

Abstract: A valve system for use in an inflatable bladder having two opposing layers and a bladder interior disposed between the two layers, the valve system includes (i) an aperture disposed at a position on one layer for filling and deflating the bladder interior,

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cushioning device for supporting a large animal such as a cow or a horse. The cushioning device comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, said top surface and bottom surface forming a chamber, and an amount of a gelatinous filling material disposed within the chamber. The present invention relates also to methods of transporting and installing a cushioning device for supporting a large animal. The method comprises transporting the cushioning device and a compound capable of creating a gel upon contact with a liquid may be delivered separately to the site. At the remote site the compound may be disposed within the chamber and the chamber may then be filled with an amount of liquid to create the gel within the cushioning device. The compound may also be delivered to the site already disposed within the chamber.