Abstract: Probiotic compositions that comprise one or more bacteria species in spore form, a thickener to form a stabilized suspension and to preferably act as a prebiotic, one or more acids or salts of acids, and optionally a water activity reducer. A system for delivering probiotic compositions by gravity feed or non-contact pump to a point of consumption by a plant or animal, preferably in conjunction with acidified drinking water, comprising a collapsible container with attachable tubing that prevent contamination of the probiotic composition within the container. Delivery may be actuated in response to a timer, motion detector, fluid level sensor, RFID tag, or other mechanism to periodically or continuously dispense a dosage of probiotic composition directly to the soil surrounding a plant or to the water or feed for an animal. A method for increasing beneficial bacteria in an animal's GIT comprises adding probiotics to acidified drinking water.

Abstract: An animal treat delivery system is configured to hold a treat and dispense the treat to an animal. The animal treat delivery system includes a rounded top portion joined to expansionary central portion. A truncated lower portion is joined to the expansionary central portion. A rope channel is bored into the top portion. A treat compartment is bored into the truncated lower portion and the expansionary central portion. The rounded top portion is configured to swing in air such that maneuvering the treat compartment enables obtaining the treat by the animal.

Abstract: A gundog training tool prevents gun shyness by gradually allowing a pup to adapt to the sound of a gunshot. A pop gun shoots treats upon creating a simulated gunshot so that the dog grows used to the sound of a gunshot and creates positive reinforcement rewarded by the treat. As the pup learns, a charge in a housing is introduced to provide a simulated gunshot that expels a treat that trains the dog to feel excitement at the sound and smell of a gunshot. The size of the charge adjusts to create louder simulated gunshots as the pup learns so that the pup is prepared for introduction to actual gunshots, such as from a shotgun shooting at a bird.

Abstract: A system for providing animal maintenance includes a housing operable to accommodate an animal, an actuating arm coupled to the housing and to an attachment device, the attachment device is operable to perform one or more animal maintenance tasks, and the actuating arm is operable to apply the attachment device to the animal, a position sensor operable to determine the position of the animal relative to the position sensor, a restraint is operable to restrict the movement of the animal within the housing, and a processor communicatively coupled to the position sensor, the actuating arm, and the attachment device, the processor is operable to receive measurements from the position sensor and, in response to the received measurements, direct the actuating arm to apply the attachment device to the animal.

Abstract: One embodiment of a treat dispenser for an animal comprises a first and second chamber separated at a junction of the chambers by a dividing wall, wherein each chamber is formed from a skeletal framework, wherein the skeletal framework of the first chamber is substantially open and the skeletal framework of the second chamber is substantially closed, and further comprising a sound device disposed within the second chamber.

Abstract: A feed level sensor for a poultry feeding system is positioned within the drop tube of a control feeder of the feeding system. The sensor comprise a first light emitter/light detector pair to detect when the level of feed in the drop tube falls below a predetermined “empty” level and a second light emitter/light detector pair to detect when feed in the drop tube is at a predetermined “full” level in the drop tube. The sensor emits a “start” signal to activate a drive to deliver feed to the feeders along a feed line when it is detected that feed in the control feeder drop tube falls below the “empty” level and emits a “stop” signal to deactivate the drive when it detects that feed within the drop tube is at the “full” level.

Abstract: A bird feeder of the tube-type having a vertically disposed hollow body portion formed of a clear plastic material. The body portion has a plurality of inverted, truncated funnel members or baffles positioned therein in a vertically spaced-apart relationship which maintain a certain amount of feed at that level even though the main feed supply has dropped below that funnel member or baffle. The baffles direct feed to feed openings formed in the body portion.

Abstract: A system for creating a plurality of sheltered stalls around feeding ports of a hummingbird feeder. The sheltered stalls may be formed by generally V-shaped members having opposed curved wings, one stall being formed beneath abutting wings of two abutting generally V-shaped members. The generally V-shaped members may be supported on mounting hooks which are either integral with or removable from the hummingbird feeder. The sheltered stalls and mounting hooks are red. The system may include the hummingbird feeder. The system deters dominant males from preventing use of the hummingbird feeder by competing hummingbirds.

Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.

Abstract: Disclosed is a self-supporting elevated feeding tray apparatus including a tray, a tray riser and a base, where the tray is watertight and the tray, tray riser, and base are integrally formed from the same material. Fill level indicia or marks allow a precise amount of food to be placed in the tray. Also disclosed is a blank for forming the elevated feeding tray apparatus including the panels that form the tray as well as a tray riser and a base. Also disclosed is a method of forming an elevated feeding tray apparatus including the steps of preparing a blank, bending the blank, forming an indentation in at least one bend, and making the seams between the side walls of the tray and at least one tray bottom panel watertight.

Abstract: A food retainer adapted to receive food to be eaten by a domestic animal. The food retainer has a base and a number of protrusions extending from the upper surface of the base of the food retainer in mutual distances from each other. At least some of the protrusions are substantially higher than the remainder of those on the food retainer. The structure of the food retainer forces the animal to struggle for the food, thereby performing an exercise that keeps the animal healthy and active and stimulates the intelligence and physique of the animal.

Abstract: An insert for use with animal feed or water containers has a bowl shaped body, a wide rim so the insert can be supported by the container, and at least one lifting tab extending from the rim by at least 0.5 inch.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining a mixing regime for use in the preparation of an animal feed in which a main computer is programmed to store a master list of ingredients which are available to farmers and from which a farmer can select a specific set of ingredients for the preparation of animal feed. The main computer is programmed to store the ingredients in a look-up table cross-referenced with standard mixing periods to which the respective ingredients should be subjected during the mixing regime to produce an animal feed. Additionally, the look-up table contains mixing factors by which the standard mixing periods may be altered in order to take account of non-standard conditions, such as variations of the ingredients, the proportion of the particular ingredient, the average size or weight of the animals and the mixing apparatus and condition thereof in which the animal feed is to be mixed.

Abstract: A portable feed apparatus comprising a feed container, a mixing assembly that receives a feed from said feed container, at least one feed additive assembly in flowable connection with said mixing assembly, and a controller in communication with said mixing assembly.

Abstract: A skin apparatus for removable use with an animal enclosure, the apparatus comprising a bottom wall and a side wall integral with the bottom wall substantially along a side wall bottom edge and extending therefrom so as to terminate in an opposite side wall top edge, the distance between the side wall bottom edge and the side wall top edge defining an effective height of the apparatus so as to be removably engaged with the enclosure.

Abstract: A receptacle suspended from a support member having a hollow housing and a lid to enclose the interior thereof. A cable secured to the housing extending though a locking mechanism affixed atop the lid so that the lid may be moved from a closed to an open position.

Abstract: Consumable feed products and vegetation are delivered to animals using a single container in which the container holds the feed product and is used to deliver the feed and which includes ungerminated seeds embedded in the container body. The seeds are caused to germinate and produce vegetation from the container body, and the germinated seeds and/or vegetation is fed to the animal. Multiple containers may be used simultaneously so that while the consumable feed product from one container is used to feed an animal, another container may be used to grow vegetation or deliver vegetation to the animal. Confined birds such as poultry and chicks may benefit from ingesting feed and vegetation produced from such containers.

Abstract: An animal feeder for facilitating oral hygiene includes a body having a support wall for supporting food for an animal. A plurality of tongue scraping formations project away from the support wall for scraping a tongue of the animal when the animal licks the tongue scraping formations on the support wall.

Abstract: A feed control system, a feeding system and a method for feeding animals comprises an autonomous feed displacer which displaces animal feed and subsequently measures the height of the displaced animal feed using a feed level meter. Since the displaced, pushed back animal feed results in heaps of surprisingly constant shape, it is possible to obtain a reliable indication of the quantity using only the feed level.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a training device is provided for training animals to perform or refrain from performing a target activity. The training device includes a reward dispenser that is capable of dispensing a reward to an animal being trained upon receiving a reward dispensing command. The reward dispensing command includes a hopper for holding a quantity of rewards. The hopper includes an entrance port for receiving rewards and an exit port through which rewards can be dispensed. The reward dispenser also includes a delivery assembly for controllably delivering rewards from the hopper to the exit port, the delivery members being placeable in contact with the rewards to be delivered. A motor member is provided that is capable of maintaining the delivery members in a static position to prevent the delivery of a reward, and moving the delivery member to deliver at least one reward to the exit port. The delivery member includes at least one bristle-containing member.

Abstract: Implementations described and claimed herein provide systems and methods for attracting different types of wild birds, as chosen by a user. In one implementation, a top section is configured to engage a cap, and a bottom section positioned opposite the top section includes at least one feeding station. A supporting member extends vertically from the bottom section to the top section. The supporting member, the top section, and the bottom section forma frame. A reversible insert has an elongated body extending between a first edge and a second edge. The first edge has a plurality of ports, and the second edge one or more slots. The frame is adapted to receive the reversible insert in an orientation based on a size of the bird seed.

Abstract: A bird feeder includes a seed reservoir formed as two or more telescopic components, which are reducible in size when not in use and which may be telescopically expanded by the owner thereof when in use to define a full-length seed reservoir. The bottom end of the reservoir is received in a base having a conically-shaped seed spreader situated therein, and the upper section of the reservoir is mounted to the underside of a hemispherically-shaped, anti-squirrel dome.

Abstract: An improved bird feeder is disclosed. The bird feeder includes a tubular main body having a top open end and a bottom open end. The tubular main body is made of wire mesh material. An adapter sleeve has a circumferential cuff extending therefrom and having a groove. The adapter sleeve is positioned over the open bottom end of the tubular body portion with the bottom portion of the tubular body portion being positioned within the groove of the cuff of the adapter sleeve and secured thereto. A removable base is releasably coupled to the adapter sleeve.

Abstract: One embodiment of a treat dispenser for an animal comprises a first and second chamber separated at a junction of the chambers by a dividing wall, wherein each chamber is formed from a skeletal framework, wherein the skeletal framework of the first chamber is substantially open and the skeletal framework of the second chamber is substantially closed, and further comprising a sound device disposed within the second chamber.

Abstract: A birdseed dispenser and birdfeeder incorporating the same are provided. The dispenser has a base assembly mounted to a first opening formed in the sidewall of the birdseed reservoir, including a front plate having a second opening formed therein, a flange extending around the second opening and projecting away from the front plate, and an end wall supported by the flange such that the flange and end wall together define a chamber. The dispenser also includes an apertured piece received in the chamber having a first seed aperture of a first configuration and a second seed aperture of a different configuration. The apertured piece is moveable between a first orientation, which places the first seed aperture in a seed accessible state permitting birds access to the seed, and a second orientation to place the second seed aperture in the seed accessible state.

Abstract: A feeding device for feeding poultry comprising a dish-shaped dispensing pan with an outer circumferential edge, a feed drop tube opening out above a central part of the pan such that a volume of feed transported to the drop tube is distributed over the bottom surface of the pan, and bars connecting the pan with the drop tube, in which openings are present between the bars for the poultry to have access to feed distributed in the pan, which openings are delimited by sides of parts of the device facing said openings. At least part of said sides of the parts facing said openings, in particular said bars, have a non-sharp-edged cross-section which is constructed circumferentially closed. The circumferentially closed parts are at least partly made out of a foam plastic.

Abstract: A haven for use with a bird feeder is provided that includes a collapsible spiral rod assembly having an upper end and a lower end. The spiral rod haven has a plurality of spiral convolutions and is selectively movable between a collapsed position and an extended position. The spiral rod haven defines an interior compartment when in its extended position. A bird feeder is positioned within the interior of the compartment. The bird feeder may be either a collapsible bird feeder, a tube-type bird feeder or any other type of bird feeder that may be positioned within the interior compartment of the haven. Small birds may gain access to the bird feeder by moving through adjacent convolutions while the convolutions prevent large birds or squirrels from entering the interior of the haven.

Abstract: One embodiment of a treat dispenser for an animal comprises a support and a plurality of coaxially stackable and nestable pods slidably disposed along the support, each pod having an interior for receiving a treat, a sidewall, a first opening and a second opening coaxial with the first opening, the first opening being dimensioned for slidable movement along the support, the second opening being larger than the first opening for the dispensing of treats to an animal.

Abstract: Disclosed is a game feeder that may be operated by weak or weakened operators for low costs. In one embodiment, the disclosed game feeder comprises: a base with stabilizing legs; a yoke with uprights and a back support extending upwardly from the base; a lifting arm pivotally positioned above the yoke so that said arm extends forward and rearward; an operating jack extending upwardly from the base and connected to the rear end of the lifting arm for pivoting the lifting arm on the yoke; and a barrel with a distributor which are positioned at the front end of the lifting arm. Practically, an operator of the game feeder may suitably lower the barrel, provide feed to a receptacle of the barrel, raise the barrel, and activate the distributor to spread the feed to the ground area near the game feeder.

Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.

Abstract: An edible animal food projectile is provided. The projectile is compatible for being launched from a launching apparatus such as a toy gun or the like. The projectile includes an edible body made from a starch-based material consisting essentially of an expanded starch. The edible body is formed into a predefined geometry operable to receive a launching force causing temporary flight of the projectile and having a first density. A payload is embedded on or within the edible body and the payload is formed from a material having a second density greater than the first density of the edible body. The payload can be food, medicine, and the like.

Abstract: The invention relates to a chip (1), in particular for coming into contact with and/or having an effect on animal food or aquarium water. The chip (1) comprises a fixing device (10) for fixing the chip (1) on a target object, and a receiving space (20), in which an application agent (30) is housed. The fixing device (10) comprises an adhesion or gluing surface. The application agent (30) comprises at least one of the following: at least one vitalisation agent, at least one nutritional supplement, at least one crystal, at least one mineral, in particular at least one quartz.

Abstract: A treat dispenser is provided for an animal to dispense treats by moving the dispenser. The dispenser includes a central spherical body, and a plurality of peripherally spaced spheres or balls connected to the body by respective branches. Each of the balls has a treat dispensing opening. The body has an opening for charging or loading treats. The device is substantially hollow. As an animal plays with the device, treats are dispensed through the openings. The openings are located at different positions on each of the balls so that treats are likely to be dispensed when the device is placed at various orientations.

Abstract: A system for raising and lowering objects includes a carriage subsystem with a tubular body having an interior central channel an inner diameter greater than the outer diameter of an elongated tubular support structure. A plurality of guides facilitate linear translation of the carriage on the vertical structure without marring. At least one hook on the carriage pivots to engage a slot on the support structure for locking the carriage in a raised position. Objects are attached to a flange on the carriage. A winch and cable control motion of the carriage.

Abstract: A platform bird feeder is provided including a base platform with a seed tray, a baffle and a center pole having a bottom end connected the tray, the baffle being tiltably and adjustably mounted to the pole above the base. Preferably, the seed tray has a seed protecting grate to hinder squirrels from accessing the seed in the tray. The height of the baffle above the seed tray may be adjusted up and down to allow the user to increase and decrease the seed access space, respectively, between the baffle and the tray. When the baffle is at a desired height, it is secured in place by an adjustable securing mechanism that, while holding the baffle at the desired height, allows the baffle to tilt or wobble when sufficient weight is placed on one side of the baffle.

Abstract: A birdfeeder apparatus that includes a tubular housing having an inner surface that defines an internal cavity. A plate having a first major surface and an opposing second major surface is positioned within the internal cavity. The plate divides the internal cavity into a first chamber that is termed by the first major surface of the plate and a first portion of the inner surface of the tubular housing and a second chamber that is formed by the second major surface of the plate and a second portion of the inner surface of the tubular housing. A gauge mechanism for measuring a desired standard is coupled to the first major surface of the plate. The plate permits a food substance that is inserted into the internal cavity to enter into the second chamber and prevents the food substance from entering into the first chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for a variable animal interaction device including an animal interaction device; a shell at least partially embedded into the animal interaction device; a component that is substantially encapsulated within the shell, wherein the shell is a barrier between the animal and the component; a detection device that detects a change in the shell; a deterrent device that has at least an on and an off state wherein the on state substantially changes the animal interaction device to substantially deter further interaction between the animal and the animal interaction device; wherein the deterrent device is actuated into the on state when the detection device detects a change in the shell.

Abstract: A treat-dispensing toy for an animal, particularly a dog, includes a hollow shell including an interior chamber and an interior structure disposed within the hollow shell to provide maze-like passageways in the shell. By rolling or tossing the shell about, the animal can work a treat along the passageways to an orifice in the shell, from which the animal can retrieve the treat. The shell can be made of a transparent or translucent material so that the animal can also see the movement of the treat within the shell.

Abstract: Animal feeders useful in feeding particular groups of animals are disclosed. Animal feeders described herein may, for example, include an electrically conductive exterior structure; a door; a door lock; a species recognition device; and an electric shock deterrent. Methods of feeding animals utilizing an electric shock deterrent are also disclosed.

Abstract: An animal feeder comprises a vertical portion having a front side, a back side, a left side, and a right side. A first groove extends continuously through each of the left side, the front side, and the right side. At least a part of the back side is generally concave to facilitate the securement of the feeder to a tree. An angular portion of the feeder extends from the vertical portion at an angle. The angular portion has a mouth with a stop. The vertical portion and the angular portion collectively define a cavity configured for retaining animal feed. The cavity is accessible at least at the mouth. The back side comprises a channel, a first bracket, and a second bracket, each of which are collectively configured for securement of a T-post.

Abstract: A treat dispenser is provided for an animal to dispense treats by moving the dispenser. The dispenser includes a central spherical body, and a plurality of peripherally spaced spheres or balls connected to the body by respective branches. Each of the balls has a treat dispensing opening. The body has an opening for charging or loading treats. The device is substantially hollow. As an animal plays with the device, treats are dispensed through the openings. The openings are located at different positions on each of the balls so that treats are likely to be dispensed when the device is placed at various orientations.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods are disclosed, exemplified by an ultrasonic transceiver that is contained within a feed container. The ultrasonic transceiver transmits ultrasound and receives reflected ultrasound to determine a value for the level of feed in a feed container. The apparatus measures the time difference from the transmission of the ultrasound to the receipt of reflected ultrasound. From this information, the distance from the ultrasonic transceiver to the top of the feed in the feed container can be computed. The distance measurement can then be correlated with the level of feed in the container. The feed level is represented by a series of LEDs on the exterior of the feed container. The feed level can also be transmitted to an individual to remotely determine the level of feed in the feeder. A two-way connection enables a remote user to dispense feed and/or check the level of the feed.

Abstract: An illuminating system for illuminating a vivarium from the side panel of a vivarium using light emitting diodes. A containment ring for dispensing fish food within an aquarium. A perforated container with a lid for dispensing food within a vivarium. A brush for cleaning a vivarium. A method for soaking food in a sinking tray. A method of dispensing bait from a perforated container.

Abstract: A space management system for livestock producers is provided where the turn over date of the space is determined by dynamically taking into account the rate of feed intake, a starting weight, a target market weight, a feed to gain ratio and factors effecting feed intake and feed to gain ratio. The dynamic measure comprises periodic measurement of remaining feed in inventory. The system preferably includes feed inventory management capabilities that include setting a date on which to order more feed and an amount of feed necessary and, preferably, a reminder system for generating reminders to order if the order is not made. Finally, the system takes into account load out time and cleaning/preparation needed when determining a turn over date.

Abstract: The invention provides remotely programmable, automated, multi-meal pet feeding apparatuses for use by pet owners and caretakers. Such apparatuses may include a communications module for connection to a communications network such as the Internet. The apparatuses may also include a built-in webcam to monitor a pet's feeding activity and environment.

Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.

Abstract: Pet Waiter Systems is an innovative and useful device for easily and efficiently feeding domesticated pets, such as cats and dogs. The systems may include a pet nourishment station assembly, a container holding member, a tray elevator assembly, and a motor assembly. In use, a nourishment tray may integrally include a stainless steel food bowl and water bowl. The nourishment tray may be easily adjusted vertically via a handy control panel for making it easier on a user to dispense a ration of pet-food and drinking-water into the bowls contained within the nourishment tray which may serve to reduce injury caused from excessive bending.

Abstract: An edible animal food projectile is provided. The projectile is compatible for being launched from a launching apparatus such as a toy gun or the like. The projectile includes an edible body made from a starch-based material consisting essentially of an expanded starch. The edible body is formed into a predefined geometry operable to receive a launching force causing temporary flight of the projectile and having a first density. A payload is embedded on or within the edible body and the payload is formed from a material having a second density greater than the first density of the edible body. The payload can be food, medicine, and the like.

Abstract: A container for feeding and/or attracting animals, which may have a cylindrical body portion, a top end, and a bottom end opposing the top end, which together define an inside chamber. Each of the top end and the bottom end of the container may be substantially perpendicular to the cylindrical body portion. The cylindrical body portion may have first plurality of openings leading to the enclosed chamber. The apparatus further may be further comprised a plurality of feed particles within the inside chamber, such that one or more of the plurality of feed particles are smaller than each of the first plurality of openings. The bottom end may have a second plurality of openings leading to the inside chamber, each of which are larger than one or more of the plurality of feed particles. The apparatus may further include a pole device, to which the container may be attached.

Abstract: A bowl assembly (2) includes a bowl (4) which is suitable for holding various types of produce but which is intended for receiving food for a pet. The bowl assembly (2) is supported upon a tray (6). Four legs (8) are disposed to support the tray and are of sufficient length to elevate the tray a distance above the reach of ants (11). An insect deterrent (12) is located on the underside of the tray around the juncture of each leg (8) with the tray (6) to prevent insects proceeding along the legs to the tray. The legs (8) depend downwards and respectively terminate in bayonet heads (16) (best seen in FIG. 2) that are received into complementary sockets (14) formed in the topside of base plate (10).