Abstract: A system and apparatus to track and control an animal, including a tracking unit to track the animal, and a stimulus unit to provide a stimulus to the animal, wherein the tracking unit and stimulus unit are configured to be removably coupled together, and the tracking unit and/or stimulus unit communicate with a common control device.

Abstract: Disclosed is a position tracking apparatus for training an animal. When transmission data including an identification code of a training device is transmitted to a GPS device after the GPS device and the training device are attached to an animal, the GPS device receives the transmission data of the training device and transfers the received transmission data to the training device. Accordingly, it is possible to train the animal to desirably act through an operation of the training device attached to the animal even though the animal is far away from the master when the animal acts with undesirable behavior.

Abstract: A system and method for treating pets, the system comprising: a content provider to provide video and audio content adapted for treating a pet; a video and audio output device for playing the video and audio content; and a feedback interface for providing indications to the content provider about behavior of the pet, wherein the content provider is to adapt the provided content according to the received indications. The method comprising playing video and audio content by a video and audio out-put device, the content comprising: an image adapted for treating a pet; and a sound adapted for treating a pet; receiving indications about behavior of the pet; and adapting the played content according to the received indications.

Abstract: A custom-shaped wireless fence system is provided that contains one or more dogs in a user-defined containment area without the need for a physical fence or underground wire. The system, which is easy to set up and use, includes at least three base units and at least one collar and, preferably, a remote controller. A virtual fence is defined around the containment area, as well as around optional exclusion zones within the containment area, during system set up through communication between the base units and a trackable device as the user walks around the desired border. Visualization software enables the user to verify that the location of the fence is as desired and that the system is operating properly using a computing device having a display screen. In use, the system employs improved filtering of consecutive distance measurement values taken between the base units and the collar to discount errant measurement values in terms of their contribution to the current calculation of the dog's location.

Abstract: An odor recognition training system for use in training an animal to recognize a desired odor, the system including an odor enclosure configured to receive an odor source within an odor storage area, a reward within a reward storage area, and an odor retention zone adjacent to and in fluid communication with the odor storage area; and a reward release system associated with the desired odor enclosure is remotely operable by the trainer for dispensing the reward directly to the odor retention zone.

Abstract: A method for predicting the athletic performance potential of a subject comprising the step of assaying a biological sample from a subject for a genetic variant in linkage disequilibrium with MSTN-66493737 (T/C) SNP. The invention also provides an assay for determining the athletic performance potential of a subject.

Abstract: An animal training system is disclosed. Said animal training system comprises a one or more gyroscopic assemblies each having a one or more rotors, a one or more gyroscope brackets, a power source attached to a one or more engines, and a one or more gyroscopic resistance forces. Said one or more rotors each comprise an axis. Said one or more gyroscope brackets attaching said one or more gyroscopic assemblies to an animal. Said one or more engines transmit a torque to said one or more rotors. Said one or more gyroscopic resistance forces are generated by rotating said one or more rotors in said one or more gyroscopic assemblies.

Abstract: The A-Z Livestock Training Rope is a humane, effective animal training and handling apparatus which teaches leading, tying, trailer loading, ground manners, cinch and saddle pressure, pressure on reins, stops rearing-up and bucking, and is a safer alternative to standard drag lines. It consists of a rope attached to a ring looped around the animal's barrel then passed through the halter. As the operator applies pressure to the end of the rope, the loop tightens around the barrel which exerts pressure on the animal. When the animal yields to the direction of the operator, the rope slacks and the pressure is relieved. As this action is repeated, the animal will learn to yield without the need for pressure on the rope.

Abstract: A human sensing pet deterrent system for protecting a specific indoor area is disclosed. The human sensing pet deterrent system includes an ultrasonic detection system that determines whether a human or a pet is entering the protected area, a motorized fluid sprayer system in the proximity of the protected area, and a microcontroller which controls and provides communication between the systems. The fluid sprayer system delivers a spray or mist stimulus for a preset duration which discourages a pet from entering the protected area. If the ultrasonic detection system detects a human, the fluid spray system is deactivated for a preset duration, thereby enabling the human to enter the protected area.

Abstract: The invention concerns the detection of pathogenic mycobacterium comprising Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Map) and genomic variants in a bulk milk sample, and more particularly a method for herd management that stratifies the risk of bulk tank milk lots derived from diagnostic-tested subgroups potentially containing DNA from pathogenic mycobacterium including Map. The method involves creating defined risk groups (categories) of milk-producing animals, such as dairy cows, for the presence of Map or related genomic variants in their milk. Another aspect of the invention concerns a method to strengthen the ability of milk-producing animals to resist environmental challenges by Map based on identifying those animals that have and maintain a low antibody level to Map using their female progeny as replacement animals.

Abstract: The invention concerns the detection of pathogenic mycobacterium comprising Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Map) and genomic variants in a bulk milk sample, and more particularly a method for herd management that stratifies the risk of bulk tank milk lots derived from diagnostic-tested subgroups potentially containing DNA from pathogenic mycobacterium including Map. The method involves creating defined risk groups (categories) of milk-producing animals, such as dairy cows, for the presence of Map or related genomic variants in their milk. Another aspect of the invention concerns a method to strengthen the ability of milk-producing animals to resist environmental challenges by Map based on identifying those animals that have and maintain a low antibody level to Map using their female progeny as replacement animals.

Abstract: A partition for an animal stall comprising an upper rail, a lower rail, said upper and lower rails being linked at forward ends thereof to define a loop, wherein at least a portion of the lower rail is formed from a non-metallic material.

Abstract: Vapor wake detection is a highly advantageous method and system for detecting explosives and other illicit substances. With vapor wake detection, a canine and a handler are used; however, unlike other detection schemes, the canine leads the handler. After the handler positions the canine in a desired location, the canine detects scents in the air that come to the canine. When the canine detects a trained scent, the canine leads the handler to or follows behind the carrier of the item with the scent. Once the carrier is identified by the handler, the proper personnel are contacted. To implement vapor wake detection effectively, specific rigorous training is utilized.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an area animal authorization system and method for allowing in designated areas only certified animals having indicators that correspond with certain behavioral characteristics and/or training proficiency. The method includes the steps of providing at least one signage at an area, wherein the signage has a signage indicator. Assessing the animal for behavioral characteristics and/or training proficiency. A requestor will then request an animal indicator from an entity, and then the entity will issue an animal indicator based on the animal's assessment. Thereafter, the animal is authorized to access the area if the signage indicator corresponds with the animal indicator issued to the animal. The animal indicator can be a tag; an element attached to a tag; a color; a leash; or an information card, and can be partially or entirely colored.

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: An animal deterrent device and methods for installing and producing an animal deterrent device for delivering an electric shock to an animal, pest, or bird to be deterred, having the typical components of a non-conductive base to which the electrically conductive elements are attached. The bottom layer unfolds outward to allow sewing of the conductive elements to the top layer of the elongated base, while preventing the stitching from penetrating the bottom layer of the elongated base. The bottom layer is then folded back into place after sewing is completed, thereby insulating any hole, fastener, or conductive element that pushed through the top layer of the elongated base from water or other material that may congregate at the bottom exterior, preventing unwanted arcing to the exterior surface below.

Abstract: A controllable scent sample dispenser has a microdosing device for outputting, during an activation state, a scent sample at a scent sample outlet to the environment, wherein the microdosing device is placeable adjacent to an animal's nose so that a distance between the outlet of the microdosing device and a nare or nostril of the animal's nose is within a predefined range, and a microdosing driver unit for adjusting a dosing rate of the scent sample output at the scent sample outlet by selectively activating the microdosing device.

Abstract: A detecting method for dairy cattle comprises the steps of: automatically measuring lying and standing times for a milking animal by a sensor; automatically comparing the measured lying and standing times for said milking animal with reference values of lying and standing times; and automatically establishing whether said milking animal is in heat or not based on said comparison. The automatic sensor may also be used for measuring a health parameter of the milking animal.

Abstract: A deterrent device for delivering an electric shock to an animal, pest or bird to be deterred, having the typical components of a non-conductive base to which the electrically conductive elements are attached. Instead of the typically-used copper wire, however, the braided elements comprise smaller strands of a conductive material, such as copper, aluminum or stainless steel wire, is used and is mechanically attached to the non-conductive base. The braided elements can be mechanically attached using a simple sewing operation in which the braid is sewn to the base. Because of the mechanical attachment and the ability of the braided elements to flex in both contraction and extension, the device of this invention can be used in tight corners and other contorted locations without having the wires of the typical prior art device pull free of the base.

Abstract: Animal care methods for improving animal and animal handler safety in animal care situations by scoring and documentation are provided.

Abstract: A housebreaking reward system. The housebreaking reward system includes a moisture sensitive pad, a moisture detector, a reward dispenser, and an optional handheld transmitter. The moisture sensitive pad is constructed to contain and hold fluids (e.g., urine) deposited by an animal and is laid down at location where it is acceptable for an animal to eliminate. The moisture detector is selectively connectable to sensing elements on the moisture sensitive pad to detect when fluid is deposited. If fluid is detected, the moisture sensitive detector signals the reward dispenser to reward the animal for appropriate elimination. At least a portion the moisture sensitive pad is disposable to facilitate easy cleanup of the appropriate elimination area. After one or more fluid deposits, the moisture detector is disconnected from the sensing elements, and the used moisture sensitive pad is discarded.

Abstract: An attachment and method for a fence system to prevent a pet from escaping a fenced comprising at least one first support member adapted to be attached substantially horizontally to at least a portion of the fence system, a plurality of second support members adapted to be attached substantially vertically to the at least one first support member, and a plurality of inserts adapted to be received within the plurality of second support members. Each of the plurality of inserts is capable of extending out of a lower portion of the each of the plurality of second support members upon digging the fenced area by the pet animal such that the extended plurality of inserts block the dug area to prevent the pet animal from escaping the fenced area.

Abstract: Disclosed are harness assemblies for use in tethering a pet, such as a dog, to a leash. The harness assemblies distribute the forces associated with restraining the animal over the animal's entire body. The harness assemblies also provide a wide range of adjustability and are easy to position upon or take off the animal. Various buckle constructions are also disclosed for use in easily securing the harness onto an animal. The various components of the present invention, and the manner in which they interrelate, are described in greater detail hereinafter.

Abstract: Semiochemical compositions comprising a feline scratch marking semiochemical analogues of these semiochemical compositions and a method to prevent cats from scratching in particular places and on multiple objects are described.

Abstract: An assembly can include a hollow owl effigy with holes, methyl anthranilate and a carrier to carry the methyl anthranilate within the hollow owl effigy and to retard release of the methyl anthranilate through the holes of the hollow owl effigy. Other devices, system and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A reminder apparatus and method are employed to by a dwelling occupant to provide a reminder concerning a pet's whereabouts. The apparatus features a carrier member that is adapted to hang from a door knob or handle, and a timer device is supported on the carrier member and operable to indicate expiration of an interval of time from a selected starting point. When the occupant lets the pet outside, they activate the countdown function of the timer and an alarm sounds when the countdown expires, providing a reminder to let the pet back inside the dwelling. Indications of an indoor and outdoor status are provided on opposing sides of the carrier member, so that reversing of the facing direction of the carrier member every time the pet transfers between the indoors and outdoors results in an ongoing accurate indication of whether the animal is inside or out.

Abstract: A child or animal carrier and a method of carrying a child or animal on the user's body are described in this invention. The carrier has two loops 1, 2 joined together by a connecting device with an optional sash. The method of carrying the child or animal involves wearing the loops 1, 2 and placing the child or animal in the loops 1, 2 in a variety of positions. In certain positions the child is carried vertically on the front of the user's torso and either faces the same direction as the user or faces inward toward the user's torso; or the child is carried vertically on the user's back facing toward the user's back. In other positions, a child or animal can be fully or partially cradled in the loops 1, 2. In another position, the child or animal is slung in the loops 1, 2 and carried against the user's hip or at the front of the user's torso. The connecting device allows the user to adjust the position of the loops 1, 2 for comfort and back support.

Abstract: An animal control pole has a first end adapted to be held by a user, and a second end adapted to ensnare and assist in the control of an animal. The pole has an axial bore extending therethrough and a cable that extends through the axial bore and extends from each end of the pole. A retaining element is located at the second end of the pole and retains the free end of the cable that extends from the second end, so as to form a closed animal engageable adjustable loop. The animal control pole includes dual release mechanisms. A first release mechanism releases the free end of the cable that extends through the second end of the pole. A second release mechanism forces an additional length of cable through the axial bore of the second end and thereby increases the size of the loop.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a creature-machine hybrid detector system capable of autonomously detecting illicit and hazardous materials. This hybrid detector comprises of an explosives detecting creature trained in the art of detecting illicit and hazardous materials that is additionally outfitted with a battery operated lightweight and portable electronics-based detector machine ensemble capable of real-time characterizations of vapor, liquid and gaseous phase materials towards which the creature displays a positive alert response, two-way wireless video, data, voice, location and image connectivity, a creature-heartbeat detector, and the capacity for interaction to remote personnel within the field of operations through a hand-held display or to a central control unit.

Abstract: An animal fluid line holder that includes an animal attachment portion and a fluid line engaging portion. The animal attachment portion includes an elongated section, a fastening mechanism that is capable of engaging opposite ends of the elongated section and a first engagement mechanism attached to the elongated section. The fluid line attachment portion includes a fluid line engaging mechanism and a second engagement mechanism. The fluid line engaging mechanism is capable of engaging a fluid line to retain the fluid line in a substantially stationary relationship thereto. The second engagement mechanism is attached to the fluid line engaging mechanism. The second engagement mechanism is capable of engaging the first engagement mechanism.

Abstract: Electric pest deterrents device having knitted conductors are presented. An elongated conductor comprising at least a single conducting strand knitted with itself or with other conducting strands can be attached to a based of the device. The conducting strands can be knitted according to one or more patterns to form textured surfaces having raise protrusions.

Abstract: A floorless shelter has a closable door and a rear ventilation window that offers shelter in inclement weather for an owner/trainer and canine during housebreaking, as well as for use on a continuing basis. The floorless shelter also provides a specific area, recommended for housebreaking, which reduces distractions because it is enclosed. After repeatedly being taken to the structure, especially in inclement weather, the canine becomes conditioned to use the specific area and appreciate the protection from the elements that the structure provides. The floorless shelter makes the housebreaking and continued use both convenient and successful.

Abstract: A wildlife exclusion system for railway tracks is provided which includes an exclusion arrangement positioned to span across the railway tracks at a location along a length of the railway tracks. The exclusion arrangement extends generally perpendicular to the railway tracks and has a series of conductive elements spaced apart from each other to form an exclusion are configured to provide an electric shock to wild animals when particular conductive elements within the exclusion area are bridged thereby. Methods of installing a wildlife exclusion system and methods of discouraging wild animals from traveling along railway tracks are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a delivery device for use in the control of a target animal species, the delivery device including: (a) a core containing a control agent for the target animal species, and (b) an impermeable coating enclosing the core, the coating being selected to provide exposure of the core in the gastrointestinal tract of the target animal species; wherein the coating of the delivery device has a hardness such that the coating is not readily breached upon mastication by a target or non-target animal species and further wherein the delivery device will not pass through a Tyler 5 mesh.

Abstract: Generally, a joint stabilized planar motion stretching system for an animal. Specifically, a method of stretching an animal which includes joint stabilization and straight plane motion of the stretched anatomy about the stabilized joint.

Abstract: Described is a counter-conditioning device and method for desensitizing an animal to an anxiety inducing sound and for minimizing a user's required involvement in such desensitization. The device and method are for automatically conditioning an animal that exhibits anxiety in response to the occurrence of a particular sound such that the animal learns to anticipate a treat upon the occurrence of the sound.

Abstract: A canine exercise and training device has elastic bands which extend from the central web to each of the four limbs to provide resistance training in the course of ordinary canine gaits.

Abstract: An improved electrode design is provided for a baited, shock-producing, deer repellent device deployed in an area to be protected. This device has straight, parallel, positive and negative, un-insulated metal electrodes extending vertically from the top. The electrodes are spaced and sized so that they surround and protect the bait. This electrode design increases the chance that a deer will make effective contact with the electrodes while also allowing easy access to the bait for servicing. This electrode design also decreases the chances of the device collecting ice or snow, and it decreases the chance of discharge of the device by moisture or by contact between the electrodes.

Abstract: An animal deterrence system projects polarised light in order to deter animals. The light may be plane polarised light and the polarisation may be varied over time. The system is particularly suited to deterrence of birds, but may also find application in deterrence of other animals sensitive to polarisation of light, such as bees and wasps. The system may be used on vineyards or orchards, or around airports, or in any other place where birds are problematic.

Abstract: The invention is an animal deterrent device and method of using the device. The device consists of a dazzler laser that produces eye irritation in an animal which results in the animal turning away from the user of the device. The device incorporates a diverging lens such that the dazzler laser produces a beam with a wide spread that makes it is easy to shine the beam on a potentially dangerous animal, but where the light is of sufficient intensity to irritate the animal's eyes.

Abstract: A lighting fixture for deterring predation has a case containing a battery and one or more sources of illumination. A controller acts to cause random intermittent flashing of the sources of illumination because the illusion of apparent motion deters predators.

Abstract: A system for controlling escape of pets during emergency, such as a fire, smoke, gas or odor emission, includes a passageway from the inside of the enclosure to the outside thereof. The passageway is normally closed by a door and an apparatus is provided for enabling opening of such door during emergency. A pre-recorded message urges the pet or pets to the open passageway only when the alarm device annunciating such emergency is intermittently disabled. A control apparatus is also provided for enabling passage of the pet or pets through the passageway and annunciates location of the pet or pets with respect to interior or exterior of the enclosure. A method is disclosed for remote operation of the controlled pet door to enhance safety of the pet owner attempting to enter residential dwelling.

Abstract: An attachment and method for a fence system to prevent a pet from escaping a fenced comprising at least one first support member adapted to be attached substantially horizontally to at least a portion of the fence system, a plurality of second support members adapted to be attached substantially vertically to the at least one first support member, and a plurality of inserts adapted to be received within the plurality of second support members. Each of the plurality of inserts is capable of extending out of a lower portion of the each of the plurality of second support members upon digging the fenced area by the pet animal such that the extended plurality of inserts block the dug area to prevent the pet animal from escaping the fenced area.

Abstract: A gesture-based animal trainer is provided. The gesture-based animal trainer is configured to be used by a person that provides gesture commands to an animal. As used herein, the term “gesture commands” refers to gestures that are each associated with a respective animal training command, wherein a gesture is defined as a selected group of movements performed by a person. The gesture-based animal trainer detects whether the person performs a gesture command and provides a stimulus to the animal in accordance with the gesture command. Upon the animal associating the respective stimulus with the gesture command, the gesture-based animal trainer allows the animal to receive the gesture command regardless of whether the person is within the animal's line of sight.

Abstract: Generally, an avian flight diverter fixed to an aerial line to divert the flight of birds. Specifically, an avian flight diverter having a body coupled to an avian flight diverting member having a first component and a second component generally a mirror image of the other joined in opposed fixed angled relation, each of the components of generally flat material having a first face and a second face having a surface area sufficient to divert flight of an avian animal when secured to an aerial line.

Abstract: The system for uniquely identifying subjects from a target population operates to acquire, process and analyze images to create data which contains indicia sufficient to uniquely identify an individual in a population of interest. This system implements an automated, image-based process that captures data indicative of a selected set of external characteristics for subjects that are members of a target population of a predetermined species.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to single nucleotide polymorphisms and primers and probes useful for screening for, diagnosing or detecting congenital stationary night blindness or for selecting or detecting horse coat patterns.

Abstract: Described is an animal data communication system for detecting particular conditions and actions of an animal, compiling information indicative of the detected conditions and actions, communicating the information to a remote location, and presenting the information at the remote location. The animal data communication system includes a carried device and an interfacing device. The carried device detects particular conditions and actions of the animal and compiles the corresponding information. The carried device is in communication with the interfacing device and transmits the information to the interfacing device. The interfacing device communicates the information to a network. The user of the animal data communication system accesses the network by way of a display device, which is in communication with the network, and perceives the information. The display device is disposed at a location remote to the animal such that the user can perceive the information at the remote location.

Abstract: A system and method for treating pets, the system comprising: a content provider to provide video and audio content adapted for treating a pet; a video and audio output device for playing the video and audio content; and a feedback interface for providing indications to the content provider about behavior of the pet, wherein the content provider is to adapt the provided content according to the received indications. The method comprising playing video and audio content by a video and audio out-put device, the content comprising: an image adapted for treating a pet; and a sound adapted for treating a pet; receiving indications about behavior of the pet; and adapting the played content according to the received indications.

Abstract: An animal deterrent device and methods for installing and producing an animal deterrent device for delivering an electric shock to an animal, pest, or bird to be deterred, having the typical components of a non-conductive base to which the electrically conductive elements are attached. The bottom layer unfolds outward to allow sewing of the conductive elements to the top layer of the elongated base, while preventing the stitching from penetrating the bottom layer of the elongated base. The bottom layer is then folded back into place after sewing is completed, thereby insulating any hole, fastener, or conductive element that pushed through the top layer of the elongated base from water or other material that may congregate at the bottom exterior, preventing unwanted arcing to the exterior surface below.