Abstract: Various embodiments for a self-tipping hurdle for pet training and fitness are described. A self-tipping hurdle may be portable, freestanding, and substantially symmetrical, where the hurdle is not required to be attached to the ground or other surface during operation. The self-tipping hurdle can include a first hurdle base having a first irregular octagonal cross-section; a second hurdle base having a second irregular octagonal cross-section; a first hurdle post coupled to the first hurdle base; a second hurdle post coupled to the second hurdle base; and at least one hurdle board disposed between the first hurdle post and the second hurdle post. The self-tipping hurdle can be configured to rotate a predetermined amount prior to a rotation of the self-tipping hurdle being substantially impeded when the at least one hurdle board is contacted by a pet.

Abstract: A sliding jump cup system allows for the efficient modification of jump heights comprises a sliding jump cup and a shaft that serves as a sliding support for the cup and that can be mounted onto an existing jump standard or which itself serves the purpose of a standard.

Abstract: An adjustable vault apparatus for use on a ground surface includes a base and a pair of linear actuators mounted vertically at opposing sides thereof. Each linear actuator is adapted to move a bar support thereof vertically between a lowered position and a raised position. The bar supports are mutually opposing and adapted to support one end of an elongated jump bar at a bar trough thereof, by gravity. Each linear actuator moves the bar support in accordance to a control circuit electrically connected with each linear actuator and a power source. A control signal received by the control circuit, either wirelessly or by wired connection, causes the control circuit to actuate each linear actuator to either raise or lower each bar support in unison, and the jump bar.

Abstract: A dog jump apparatus having stanchions that are magnetically attached to a base and/or jump cups that are magnetically attached to stanchions is described. In some embodiments, the dog jump apparatus includes a base, a first stanchion magnetically fixed to a first end of the base, the first stanchion having at least one jump cup magnetic attachment point, a second stanchion magnetically fixed to a second, opposite, end of the base, the first stanchion having at least one jump cup magnetic attachment point, a first jump cup that magnetically attaches to the at least one magnetic attachment point of the first stanchion, a second jump cup that magnetically attaches to the at least one magnetic attachment point of the second stanchion, and a jump bar supported by the first jump cup and the second jump cup.

Abstract: A jump cup for equestrian activities includes two curved plates for supporting the ends of two jump poles and two hinges that allow the two curved plates to rotate independently from each other and to a single pinned attachment point to a conventional jump standard.

Abstract: A pole 10, for use as a cross beam in a show jumping obstacle, comprised of a continuous extruded length defining an external wall 14 and an internal profile structure 11/12. The internal structure preferably includes a tubular shape capable of receiving an insert element 15 that can add weight to the pole as needed to meet show jump requirements.

Abstract: Described is a method of conditioning an invertebrate to detect a compound at and beyond a threshold range. In one embodiment the conditioned invertebrate is Microplitis croceipes. Compounds the invertebrate can detect include skatole and androstenone. An additional step includes selecting a compound and negatively conditioning the invertebrate at a concentration wherein the invertebrate will not respond to negatively conditioned compound concentration.

Abstract: An apparatus for demonstrating animal agility. The multiuse centerline weave device includes a rail with interchangeable legs positioned on alternating sides of the rail. One set of interchangeable legs is a competition leg set that includes a plurality of legs each with an attached peg that connects to a weave pole. Another set of interchangeable legs is a sliding leg set that includes a plurality of legs each with a slider that moves a peg from the centerline of the rail to an outboard position relative to the rail. One type of slider has a peg attached to a plate that moves with the slider. Another type of slider has a tilting mechanism that tilts the peg in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rail.

Abstract: A jump cup for supporting a cross bar between two jump standards includes an attachment region to hold the jump cup on a standard, a support region to hold an end of a cross bar, and a lock region to prevent the attachment region from sliding out of the standard. The support region has multiple support members to distribute the weight of the cross bar, and the force of a horse coming down on the crossbar, such that the jump cup does not dangerously deform. A safety mechanism is also presented that allows for release of the support region from the attachment region if a threshold force is applied to the support region.

Abstract: Equine training equipment which is a receptacle comprising a sheet of material forming an envelope for retaining a bulk material in the form of a stackable unit, wherein one or more units may be stacked to form a solid component of a jumping hurdle, such that a face of the/or each unit visible when the jumping hurdle is approached from the front presents a visible image located on the sheet material. The invention also extends to processes of preparing the equipment and use thereof.

Abstract: A remotely controlled adjustable equestrian barrier that uses motorized threaded rods located inside hollow support posts to drive mating threaded nuts up or down simultaneously to raise or lower a rail that is supported by rail cups that are attached to each threaded nut. Each post has a vertical slot that allows the rail cup to be attached to the nut and to freely travel up or down along with the mating nut. When the device is turned on, the support cups automatically lower to their lowest point so that the rail starts in its lowest position parallel to the ground. As each rod turns, a cam that is fixed to each rod causes a micro switch to turn on and off for each revolution. A micro processor keeps track of the number of revolutions and turns the drive motors off when the rail reaches the desired height.

Abstract: An apparatus for demonstrating animal agility. The weave apparatus includes a rail with a set of members positioned on alternating sides of the rail. Each member includes a slider with a weave pole. Each slider is movable along a longitudinal axis of a corresponding one of the members with the weave pole positioned over the rail in one position. In various embodiments, the weave apparatus includes a set of releasably removable members, indicia indicating the distance the slider is from the rail, a tilting mechanism between the weave pole and the slider, and/or a set of gates.

Abstract: A collapsible barrel is provided for use in training for equine barrel racing. The collapsible barrel is configured and sized to approximate the dimensions of a conventional barrel used in the sport of equine barrel racing, but is constructed of sturdy, lightweight materials that enable the barrel to be transformed between a fully deployed state and a collapsed state. The collapsible barrel of the present invention is sufficiently lightweight and dimensioned, when in a collapsed state, to be easily transported, deployed for training and later stored. The flexibility of the collapsible barrel makes training ideal because it eliminates injury to the legs of the rider and the body of the horse.

Abstract: An apparatus for demonstrating animal agility. In one embodiment, the weave apparatus includes a rail with a set of releasably removable legs. The apparatus has a plurality of joints that each secure a leg to the rail. The joint includes an axle that the leg pivots about relative to the rail. The joint in various embodiments includes a toolless releasable latching mechanism and/or a locking mechanism. In an embodiment used for training, the legs are grooved or slotted for engaging by a slider. Each slider engages one of the legs and includes a vertical projection that engages a pole. With the slider fully engaging the leg, the projection and pole are directly above the rail centerline. In a competition style embodiment, the legs provide support for the rail and the peg for the weave poles is attached to the rail.

Abstract: The feline exercise apparatus removably hooks over a door and provides a pair of vertically hung carpet like sections for a cat to climb and scratch. The bottom section removably affixes to the top section. Either section can be rolled and hooked to itself to form a cylindrical tunnel, whether hung from the door or detached. A pair of hanging members are also optionally attached.

Abstract: A cross piece socket assembly includes a first resting bracket spaced from a second resting bracket. The cross piece socket assembly further includes at least one hoop support. The hoop support includes a hoop anchor portion selectively engageable with one of the first and second resting brackets. First and second arms extend from the hoop anchor portion. A cradle socket is fixed between the first and second arms, and the cradle socket is configured to secure the cross piece bar within the cradle socket where the cross piece bar is struck with an impact force less than an impact force capable of causing a horse or rider to fall. When repositioning the cross piece bar at a different height the hoop anchor portion is disengaged from the first resting bracket and moved to the second restring bracket with the cross piece bar continuously secured in the cradle socket.

Abstract: A collapsible barrel is provided for use in training for equine barrel racing. The collapsible barrel is configured and sized to approximate the dimensions of a conventional barrel used in the sport of equine barrel racing, but is constructed of sturdy, lightweight materials that enable the barrel to be transformed between a fully deployed state and a collapsed state. The collapsible barrel of the present invention is sufficiently lightweight and dimensioned, when in a collapsed state, to be easily transported, deployed for training and later stored. The flexibility of the collapsible barrel makes training ideal because it eliminates injury to the legs of the rider and the body of the horse.

Abstract: An apparatus for a weave trainer for demonstrating animal agility. In one embodiment, the weave trainer includes a rail with a set of adjustable poles. Attached to the rail are telescoping legs extending away from the centerline of the rail. The legs are grooved for engaging by a slider. Each slider engages one of the legs and includes a vertical projection that engages a pole. With the slider fully engaging the leg, the projection and pole are directly above the rail centerline. In one such embodiment, the legs are removable. In another embodiment, the angle of the projection is adjustable such that the engaged poles are movable to selected angles from vertical. In another embodiment, two rails are connected by a hinge that allows the two rails to fold.

Abstract: A method for instructing a horse to jump over a barricade, comprising acclimating the horse to the barricade, wherein such acclimation comprises providing a jump wherein the jump comprises an overlay having visually depicted thereon a realistic image of the barricade; providing the horse with visual access to the image depicted on the first overlay; and having the horse jump over the jump. The horse may be instructed to jump over an endless number of types of barricades simply by removing the overlay from the jump and replacing it with an overlay having depicted thereon a visual image of the desired type of barricade. By repeating the jumping process over the overlay bearing an image of the particular type of barricade, the horse will proficiently and cost effectively learn to jump over the actual barricade when presented to the barricade.

Abstract: A Pop Out Bracket including an impact release system for use in connection with a stake when mounted to a cross country equestrian fence and other devices. The Pop Out Bracket is a one-piece assembly comprising of plastic materials with holes for mounting with screws or other fixtures and is configured to flex open from the fence upon a sufficient impact or force allowing the stake to come out and fall to the ground. The Pop Out Bracket allows for quick replacement of the stake discontinuing the need to stop a show for course builders to have to replace a stake and or re-screw in a stake. The Pop Out Bracket lowers the danger to the horse and rider by allowing the stake to fall to the ground and not allowing the stake to stay in position and break causing possible injury to the horse or rider.

Abstract: A cross piece socket assembly includes a first resting bracket spaced from a second resting bracket. The cross piece socket assembly further includes at least one hoop support. The hoop support includes a hoop anchor portion selectively engageable with one of the first and second resting brackets. First and second arms extend from the hoop anchor portion. A cradle socket is fixed between the first and second arms, and the cradle socket is configured to secure the cross piece bar within the cradle socket where the cross piece bar is struck with an impact force less than an impact force capable of causing a horse or rider to fall. When repositioning the cross piece bar at a different height the hoop anchor portion is disengaged from the first resting bracket and moved to the second restring bracket with the cross piece bar continuously secured in the cradle socket.

Abstract: Equine training equipment which is a receptacle comprising a sheet of material forming an envelope for retaining a bulk material in the form of a stackable unit, wherein one or more units may be stacked to form a solid component of a jumping hurdle, such that a face of the/or each unit visible when the jumping hurdle is approached from the front presents a visible image located on the sheet material. The invention also extends to processes of preparing the equipment and use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel liverpool apparatus for use in show jumping, a category of equestrian events. Said apparatus allows a user to provide at least two types of liverpools using a single apparatus.

Abstract: An obstacle supporter for an obstacle assembly. The obstacle supporter includes: (a) a body which is at least partially flexible; and (b) a body support coupled to the body and which is adjustable between a plurality of different sizes. The obstacle supporter is convertible between a larger size for a use-mode and a relatively compact size for a non-use mode. Two or more obstacle supporters can be spaced apart to support an obstacle therebetween.

Abstract: A pet activity system for releasably joining a plurality of parts. These parts include bases, extenders and attachments wherein each is characterized as having either the male or female portion of at least one snap connector whereby the parts are releasably connectable to one another. As a preferred embodiment, multiple connectors are employed each requiring different forces to disengage those portions of the activity system that they connect from one another.

Abstract: An improved parrot decorative tower provides higher possibility and convenience to expose the beauty of the exotic birds keeping birds safety and living space sanitary conditions. An improved parrot decorative tower includes a mobile portion and an attachable portion (a decorative portion). The mobile portion comprises a container with an open upper side, removable tray installed at the lower portion of the container, at least on of a plurality of wheels/rollers and a connecting device including a fixing portion comprising at least one of a plurality of brackets and tightening bolts. The decorative portion is coupled with the mobile portion by an appropriate quantity of the directors rigidly connected to the frame coupled with the perch and comprising an exotic landscape picture or mirror installed in the frame.

Abstract: Agility contests, with humans and with animals, have been carried out down through history all around the world. Jump cups, made of wire and ganged into sets to be mounted to standards make changing jump heights quick and easy. Because only the cup assemblies have to be replaced when regulations change, the present invention is economical as well.

Abstract: A remotely adjustable equestrian barrier includes motors mounted to the barrier posts and linked to sliding jump cups. The motors are microprocessor controlled. The rail height is adjusted using a remote transmitter which directs the microprocessor to energize the motors and thereby move the rail. Position sensors provide information to the microprocessor to determine when to de-energize the motors. A collapsible barrier may be used with the remotely adjustable equestrian barrier.

Abstract: An animal training device is disclosed. The training device includes a target section and a base section coupled together. The base section includes a top portion and a rounded bottom portion. An annular flange is located between the top portion and the bottom portion and extends outward from the top portion and bottom portion. The annular flange is operable to ensure that excessive exterior forces do not knock over the training device. The training device is portable as well as self-righting.

Abstract: A horse jump system and jump cup assembly defined by rotatable and releasable jump cups, wherein the system includes a pair of opposing posts having key hole tracks vertically disposed, at least one pair of rotatable jump cup assemblies for mounting to the pair of key hole tracks and at least one pole removably positionable in said jump cups. The jump cup assembly includes a jump cup support mount or coupling that is adapted for removably mounting to the key hole tracks and jump cup adapted for releasably and rotatably mounting to the coupling wherein the jump cup support coupling and jump cup have cooperating interlocking structure, namely an open-ended arcuate channel and corresponding tab that forms a snap fit with the channel. The jump cup is dislodged from the coupling when urged by a predetermined force having vertical and, or horizontal components.

Abstract: An aquarium accessory allows captive amphibious animals such as turtles, salamanders and frogs to follow their instinct to sun themselves in a location which provides quick access to the safety of the water. An upper platform stage is supported by an upper ramp which inclines upward from an edge of a lower platform stage. An inclined lower ramp extends downward into the water from the same edge of the lower platform stage to enable the animals to climb out of the water. The accessory attaches to a wall of the aquarium. Upward facing surfaces of the platform stages and ramps are coated with high traction material. The configuration of the accessory minimizes obstruction of the body of water in the aquarium.

Abstract: The equestrian jump pole support system is adopted for making solid jumps, knockdown jumps, or combinations. The system includes a lightweight, free standing, three sided, triangular upright, having mutual perpendicular, elongated opposing faces with one face having a plurality of circular cutout holes. The cutout holes have a volumetric size compatibly equivalent to the jump poles, permitting the poles to slide into the holes to make a solid jump. Additionally, a jump shelf, with bracket, having a volumetric size compatibly equivalent to the circular cutout holes, plug holes and provide an exterior two position support for balancing jump poles to make a knockdown jump. The free standing, triangular shape support with cutout holes and slide in jump shelf permit the system to secure a pole, or balance a pole, or the perform both functions at the same time at different heights, widths, and depths in several different styles.

Abstract: A mounting for poles of jumps in equestrian sport. A dish-shaped pole receiver suspended on a generally vertical rail can be connected together by bolts, then fixed to a stand. The bolts, which are flanged such that the shaft is not as wide as the head, extend in multi-segmented slots having serially connected narrow, wide and further narrow portions. The width of the narrow portion of the slot corresponds to approximately the width of the bolt shaft, while the wide portion of the slot is wide enough to accommodate the bolt head. The slot can secure the bolts by firstly introducing the bolt head into the wide portion of the slot, then engaging the shaft with the narrow part of the slot until the shaft comes in contact with the further narrow portion.

Abstract: An apparatus for training horses having a series of adjustable obstacles with transverse crosspieces, the apparatus comprising a base structure formed by a pair of substantially horizontal and parallel guide rails disposed on the ground at a predetermined distance from each other, a plurality of vertical mounts slideably placed upon the guide rails to adjust their longitudinal position therealong. The vertical mounts have vertically mobile supports for supporting and holding the crosspieces at adjustable height. The same number of vertical mounts is disposed on both rails in mutually facing relationship to form pairs, each vertical mount being fixed on a wheeled carriage coupled to a first motor to provide synchronous movement of the pairs along the guide rail. A second motor acts on the vertically mobile support to adjust their vertical position along the guide rail.

Abstract: A mounting for poles of jumps in equestrian sport, with a dish-shaped pole receiver which is suspended on a generally vertical rail adapted to be fixed to a stand. The pole receiver and the rail can be connected together by bolts which extend in one or more multi-segmented slots having one or more serially connected narrow, wide and further narrow portions. The bolts are flanged, or headed such that the shaft is not as wide as the head. The width of the narrow portion of the slot corresponds to approximately the width of the bolt shaft, while the wide portion of the slot is wide enough to accommodate the bolt head. The slot is able to secure the bolts by firstly introducing the bolt head into the wide portion of the slot, then engaging the shaft with the narrow part of the slot until the shaft comes in contact with the further narrow portion.

Abstract: A dog performance apparatus and method for competition trial runs has an enclosed area divided into a series of communicating passages forming an endless convoluted course that each dog must run. Distributed in series along the course are a number of obstacles the dog must traverse. The obstacles may include tunnels, jumps, apertured partitions, hurdles, A-frames, teeters, and constricting arches. A lure attached to an endless cord loop is remotely pulled along the course by a mechanism. Guides direct the lure through the course in such fashion as to encourage the dog to properly traverse the obstacles in the passage. The time the dog takes to make the run is measured.

Abstract: An equestrian jumping device using telescopic standards which adjust the height of the jump. The jump height is determined by placing an elongated cup having a pin into predetermined holes positioned on the telescopic posts. The elongated cup and adjustable posts enable one to create a corner obstacle comprising of two poles and three standards. The two poles meet at one end in the elongated cup and then proceed in opposite directions to form a triangle or corner. The advantage of the adjustable standard eliminates the standard from protruding above the pole which could injure either horse or rider.

Abstract: Jumps for horses comprise control means for altering with elapse of time at least one of the shape, configuration and position relative to the ground of the obstacle presented by the jump to the horse. Examples of obstacles presented of which at least one of the shape, configuration and position relative to the ground are caused to vary are an axially rotatable beam with a non-circular cross-section, water issued from a plurality of selectively controllable water jet nozzles, and a plurality of mutually parallel poles mounted to be driven in a direction perpendicular to their length along a closed loop, which itself moves along the ground.

Abstract: An equestrian barrier having a standard, a jump cup that can be adjusted to various positions along the standard, and a pole supported by the jump cup. The standard has notches formed at intervals therein. Each notch is defined by a lower arcuate surface. An end of the jump cup has a corresponding curved surface. When the end of the jump cup is received in one of the notches, the pair of curved surfaces oppose each other and the torsional component of gravity tends to seat an upper surface of the jump cup against an upper surface of the notch. A bracket can be provided to increase stability by engaging a groove formed on an opposite side of the standard.

Abstract: A jump cup for supporting an end of a jump pole used in equestrian activities includes a curved plate forming an upwardly facing concave surface. A lateral support pin and a mounting pin are fixed to the plate and project from a rear side thereof. The mounting pin includes an axle portion that can be inserted into a hole of a conventional jump standard, the axle portion defining an axis about which the plate can pivot downwardly once the lateral support pin has passed across a front surface of the standard, whereby the standard is straddled by the lateral support pin and a portion of the mounting pin. The jump cup is formed of fixedly interconnected parts and can be installed or removed with one hand of a user.

Abstract: A removable cover is adapted to be slipped over a rail or other element of an equestrian jump that should present a desired set appearance but is subject to degradation in the appearance. The cover is formed of a cleanable sheath having a length substantially parallel to a principal dimension of a jump element, an opening for insertion of the jump element, and interior dimensions substantially corresponding to exterior dimensions of the jump element so that the sheath can be slipped over the jump element and surround at least a portion thereof. When the appearance of the cover becomes degraded, it can be removed from the jump element, cleaned, and slipped over the jump element to restore the desired set appearance.