Abstract: The general goal of the present invention is to prevent damage to property resulting from the animal's separation anxiety which typically is a consequence of the pet owner's departure while minimizing the period of time the dog is confined. The most obvious objective is to restrain the animal until it calms down. A similar approach would be to reward the animal with a treat once it has calmed down. We have invented a device that incorporates an automatically releasing door of the kennel. For instance, the owner of a canine would place the dog in a kennel prior to leaving his or her residence. The owner would initiate a timer on the kennel, and the kennel door would automatically open after a pre-determined amount of time, for instance 30 minutes, or some other amount of time that was sufficient to calm the canine's emotions. After the door is automatically open, the canine would be free to exit the kennel for exercise, to access water and/or food, or otherwise explore the dwelling or its surroundings.

Abstract: A molded decorative yard stake having a basin for containing an animal attractant and a cover removeably locking in place over, and sufficiently spaced from, the basin to permit gradual aerosolization of the animal attractant.

Abstract: A device provides positive reinforcement and treats for a domesticated animal urinating in a predetermined location. The positive reinforcement includes a message from the owner. A treat is exposed after the owner's message is played to further reward the animal. Absorbent paper is used at the predetermined location for collecting the urine and activating the voice and treat bowl. After a preset time, the used absorbent paper is removed and new absorbent paper is provided automatically. Another version includes a device that uses a single sheet of absorbent paper.

Abstract: A portable scent detection system for moving air from a search area to an animal's nose such as a dog that can include a hand-held pickup for collecting air from a target area, an air moving unit containing at least one fan, a return hose coupled between the pickup and the air moving unit, and a scent presentation device. The air moving unit can contain one or more fans. The pickup device can also optionally contain a fan. The fans can be battery powered using fixed or rechargeable batteries. The air moving unit can be contained in a waist or backpack for ease in use. The scent pickup can also optionally contain a filter to filter out dust or unwanted particles.

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. The captured data is then processed to create a database record which is associated with the selected subject and which can be used to uniquely identify the selected subject. The subject identification process is repeatable, so any subject can be accurately mapped to their associated database record, which database record can be updated to reflect changes in the subject.

Abstract: One example of a solution provided here comprises: identifying a location of one or more animals that are on a path to collide with a vehicle or device; directing millimeter-wave electromagnetic energy toward the location; and administering an effective amount of the electromagnetic energy to repel the animals. Another example comprises: identifying a location of one or more animals that are in a vehicle's path; directing millimeter-wave electromagnetic energy toward the location; and administering an effective amount of the electromagnetic energy to repel the animal, thereby avoiding a collision between the animal and the vehicle. The vehicle could be an aircraft, for example, or another kind of vehicle. Examples in the aviation context involve moving birds or mammals away from runways and taxiways, or otherwise repelling birds that are in the path of an aircraft.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are gustatory and/or olfactory aversion compositions comprising one or more bitterants and appropriate adhesives or tackifiers, and the like, which provide a long-lasting effect. The compositions are useful for behavior modification, especially in animals, such as pets or livestock.

Abstract: An animal deterrent device and method of using the device is disclosed. 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 canine training device configured to work in conjunction with the leash of a dog to transmit a non-invasive stimulus to a dog based on the relative positioning of the dog leash connected to the dog or dog collar. The canine training device includes a position sensor in the form of a tilt switch that is either attached to or built into the dog leash. Movement of the dog in any direction beyond that permitted by its handler causes a change in relative position of the leash, thereby closing the tilt switch and activating a vibratory stimulus generator that transmits vibration to the dog, thus alerting the dog to correct its course well prior to creating any significant tension on the leash.

Abstract: Operations in a livestock facility can be automated and made more efficient by utilizing an interrogator system that reads and writes data to tags associated with livestock. For instance, gates can be automated to sort livestock based on data read by interrogators from tags and livestock can be identified for examination when data suggest that their behavior deviates from expected or normal behavior. The tag associated with a livestock can carry and accumulate information across multiple facilities throughout the livestock production and processing cycle. Gathering information across facilities allows for more informed decision making and a more cooperative approach to improving the livestock production and processing cycle.

Abstract: An animal training system including a programming apparatus and an animal training collar. The animal training collar is communicatively couplable to the programming apparatus. The animal training collar includes at least one stimulation probe and a programmable device operatively connected to the at least one stimulation probe to activate the at least one stimulation probe. The at least one stimulation probe also transferring data at least one of to and from the programming apparatus.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for protecting a photovoltaic plant (1) against rodent bite damage, wherein the photovoltaic plant (1) comprises several components, among them solar cells (2), a control unit (5), an inverter (7), an internal voltage supply means (13) and at least one microcontroller (9) which are interconnected via corresponding lines (3, 6, 8, 11). To provide such a device which offers an optimum protection against damage caused by bites and which entails as little maintenance and installation expenditures as possible, an ultrasonic transmitter (12) is provided for emitting an ultrasonic signal, and the ultrasonic transmitter (12) is connected to a microcontroller (9) of the photovoltaic plant (1) such that the ultrasonic signal emitted is controllable via the photovoltaic plant (1).

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for controlling animal activity with an adhesive sheet. In one embodiment, the sheet includes strips uniformly spaced apart on a transfer layer including a bisected protection layer. In another embodiment, the sheet is flat and generally rectangular. In another embodiment, the sheet is rolled. In yet another embodiment, the sheet is deployed from a dispenser. In one embodiment of the method, the sheet is deployed by locating an area of activity to be controlled, removing the control sheet from the transfer sheet, placing the control sheet on an the area of activity to be controlled and then systematically and sequentially removing the first protection sheet and the second protection sheet. In another embodiment, the area to be controlled includes a surface discontinuity requiring placement of the control sheet along the discontinuity.

Abstract: An animal management system and scanning access device are disclosed. The scanning access device accesses RFID label disposed on/in animal body, and the information of the accessed RFID label is subsequently processed and transmitted to the animal management system via a communication transmission module for comparison.

Abstract: A method and system for managing at least one animal is disclosed. The method can include imaging, such as ultrasound imaging, a lung of a live animal, such as a ruminant or bovine. The imaging can be performed to determine a degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness. After imaging, information regarding respiratory damage can be used to select at least one aspect of the treatment, care or disposition of the animal. For example, the information can be used to select the amount or type of feed provided to the animal at a feedlot. The information also can be used to select how long the animal should be housed at the feedlot prior to slaughter. If an animal is diagnosed with a respiratory illness, information about its degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness also can be used to select the appropriate medical treatment or lack of treatment.

Abstract: An animal toileting system including a device (10) having a zone (19) into which an animal may urinate, defecate or both. The zone (19) has an aperture (18) through which animal waste may pass. A number of inserts (30, 32, 34) are provided that reduce or block the size of the aperture (18).

Abstract: A harness used for restraining a horse or other animal during training and grooming is disclosed. The harness consists of an upper strap connected to a lower strap. The strap is placed around the front legs of the horse by a buckle. The upper strap is placed over the front shoulder of the horse.

Abstract: A positive-reinforced method of training a dog to chew or mouth only appropriate household items and chew toys. The method includes scent-training the dog (or puppy) to recognize a particular distinctive scent not normally found in nature as applied to an acceptable chewing object. The dog is introduced to the distinctive scent and encouraged to chew the marked acceptable chewing object. Each time the dog recognizes the scent, the dog is encouraged to chew the scented chewing object or some other acceptable chewing object marked with the distinctive scent and rewarded. The dog is tested with at least one unmarked object. The dog is trained once the dog can discriminate between the scent-marked object or objects and the unmarked object or objects. From there, the scent may be applied to other household items that are acceptable chewing/mouthing items (e.g., other chew toys). By absence of the scent, the dog recognizes that it cannot chew on unacceptable items (e.g., furniture, shoes).

Abstract: The invention encompasses an automated animal feeding system, an automated process for feeding an animal and apparatus therefore. The invention also encompasses methods of behavioral modification of animals.

Abstract: Described is a mechanically compliant stimulus delivery probe for delivering an electrical stimulus to an animal. The stimulus delivery probe is mechanically secured to an animal training device that is adapted to be carried by the animal and to generate the electrical stimulus. When the animal training device is carried by the animal, the stimulus delivery probe is positioned in physical contact with the animal such that the stimulus delivery probe delivers the electrical stimulus to the animal. The stimulus delivery probe is also mechanically compliant to the extent that the force applied by the animal training device against the stimulus delivery probe is substantially absorbed by the stimulus delivery probe, reducing the localized force realized by the animal. The reduction of the force realized by the animal promotes safety and comfort for the animal.

Abstract: Attenuating, while in a given situation, a person's emanated electromagnetic field and the person's scent or odor, by the person wearing article(s) of apparel that include an electromagnetically shielding fabric. The shielding fabric comprises a substantially continuous system of conductive fibers combined with a non-conductive fabric. The conductive fibers attenuate both the emanated electromagnetic field and the emanated scent or odor. The given situation comprises hunting, animal handling, being in or on a body of water, or a human adversarial situation. Attenuating the person's emanated electromagnetic field decreases the likelihood of that emanated field affecting progress or an outcome of the given situation. Attenuating the person's emanated scent or odor decreases the likelihood of that emanated scent or odor affecting progress or the outcome of the given situation.

Abstract: A device operable as an electronic shark deterrent has a high-voltage pulse signal waveform generator for pulses to be applied to electrodes immersed in water to deter sharks and other aquatic creatures. A preferred output waveform has a train of pulse bursts of alternating-polarity pulses in a series. Preferably, the timing intervals between pulses are of irregular duration, the amplitudes of pulses are varied to be irregular, and the interval between pulse bursts is kept to less than about 5 seconds, in order to be more effective as a shark deterrent signal. The device has the signal waveform generator enclosed in a thin, planar case mounted to a belt connector and a fastener strap for attachment to a part of a user's body. It can include a water-detection probe for automatic activation when immersed in water, a status LED indicator, and electrodes embedded in a layer at opposite ends of the fastener strap with an insulative screen layer for reducing electrostatic effects on the user.

Abstract: An animal restraining device and method provide dual capability for restraining an animal and administering medications. A first embodiment provides an administration tube connected to a body with handles which can be grasped by user to position the device either for restraining or administering medications. A second embodiment is a continuous hook-shaped member having a hollow passageway in order to introduce medications. The second embodiment is reversible to place either end of the device in the animal's mouth for restraining or administering medications, depending upon the size of the particular animal. The method of restraint includes positioning the device in the animal's mouth and applying a force to elicit a natural response by the animal which causes the animal to pause or remain motionless for a period of time while a caregiver may treat or examine the animal.

Abstract: A device for deterring behavior of pets which is a laminate of a reflective plastic layer having a thickness of about 0.5 to 10.0 mils and capable of making a sound when the sheet is flexed, a fibrous layer, and a decorative fabric layer, where the layers are joined together to form the device.

Abstract: An arrangement for positioning at least two milking animals in at least two milking stalls allows the animals to stand in an inclined position such that a longitudinal axis of the animals forms an angle of 10°-80° to a vertical plane (6) of a front barrier (5) of the milking stalls. The arrangement includes a power member (22) and motion transmission mechanism adapted to transfer an activating motion from the power member to individual front positioning elements (10) in the milking stalls such that the individual front positioning element in each milking stall comes in contact with a front portion of the animal and acts with a resilient force on the animal in a manner such that the animal steps backwards to a desired milking position in which the rear part of the animal is in contact with a second rear positioning element (9).

Abstract: The invention provides a blank of a sheet material suitable for being arranged in an area in which an individual practises an undesired behaviour. The blank has a layered structure with an electrically isolating first layer and an electrically conductive second layer which can carry an electrical charge. Upon contact with an outer surface of the second layer, the individual experience an electric shock.

Abstract: The invention will revolutionize dog/animal training by providing a scent based language. It works by utilizing programmable variations of scent and labeling them with teaching commands. The handler gives a teaching command by pressing a button on the (Twilight) remote. The (Rising Sun) headset/harness picks up the signal through a receiver and then delivers the designated scent and voice command.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting and identifying birds based upon electronic analysis of their bird calls and songs and method for doing so by utilizing a step-by-step hierarchical method of breaking down bird vocalizations according to order, family, and species of the specific bird. Several embodiments of the apparatus are disclosed particularly a hand held computational device, microphone, audio capture card, user application software and a collection of prerecorded audio data.

Abstract: A watercraft in the form of a body board comprising a planar body and a display unit adapted to display at least one animated image. The image is disposed at a bottom side of a lenticular lens. Each of the frames comprise an image of a head of a shark having a mouth opened at a predetermined width, thereby forming an animated image of the shark moving mouth so as to repel sharks. The display unit comprises a digital display, a controller and a power supply unit wherein the controller comprises memory for storing images and controls the images for displaying on the digital screen. The digital display comprises LCD. The supply unit comprises a solar power panel disposed on the top surface of the watercraft.

Abstract: A dressage whip for guiding a horse may have a curved segment and a tip. The curved segment may connect a first segment to a second segment, and the first segment and the second segment may be substantially co-linear. The curved segment may accommodate a thigh of a rider of a horse and may maintain the tip in a position proximate to the horse. The dressage whip may have a handle which may be a shaft having a substantially oval cross section formed by two opposed substantially flat sides and two opposed substantially curved sides.

Abstract: An animal deterring device has a carrier with first and second conductive traces that are separated by an arc suppressor. Most typically, the arc suppressor is configured to eliminate short circuiting of the device when exposed to fog, dew, rain, or animal excrements while at the same time to allow an animal to contact both conductive traces at the same time.

Abstract: An outrigger, for carrying an electric wire at a distance outward from a support, comprises a first elongate arm (512). A first support device (513B) at a distal end of the arm is adapted for suspending a portion of the wire (517B). The outrigger is suspended from a support, e.g. from a support wire (516) carried on a post (515), by a second support device (520) at a proximal end of the arm. When the outrigger is suspended by the second support device and the wire is suspended from the first support device, the outrigger is movable, from a rest position in which the arm extends outwardly from the support, to move the first support device and the wire toward the support when the first support device or the wire is impacted in a direction toward the support, and afterwards to move the outrigger back to the rest position.

Abstract: An improved test apparatus and method for assessing visual learning in mammals is provided. The stimuli presented to the mammal are disposed and arranged on the floor of the test apparatus instead of on the walls.

Abstract: A method and system for managing at least one animal is disclosed. The method can include imaging, such as ultrasound imaging, a lung of a live animal, such as a ruminant animal or bovine animal. The imaging can be performed to determine a degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness. After imaging, information regarding respiratory damage can be used to select at least one aspect of the treatment, care or disposition of the animal. For example, the information can be used to select the amount or type of feed provided to the animal at a feedlot. The information also can be used to select how long the animal should be housed at the feedlot prior to slaughter. If an animal is diagnosed with a respiratory illness, information about its degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness also can be used to select the appropriate medical treatment or lack of treatment.

Abstract: An indicator device for an animal includes an indication region and an indication means disposed upon the indication region and arranged to visibly indicate to a person whether and how the person should approach the animal. The indicator device also includes fastening means for fastening the indicator device to the animal. A method of coordinating interaction between a person and an animal is also provided. An indicator system for a plurality of animals is also provided. The system includes at least first and second indicator devices. The method includes determining how the animal should be approached and fastening an indicator device to the animal.

Abstract: An apparatus for receiving waste of domesticated animals is provided that includes a floor that is joined to four walls to define an area of floor space within the apparatus. An opening in one of the walls includes a door for selectively providing access to the apparatus. The apparatus includes a litter box for receiving waste of domesticated animals. The litter box is removable from the enclosure and occupies approximately one-third of the available floor space. A lid is joined to one of the walls and provides for placement and removal of the litter box within the apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for detecting estrus in animal by sensing along time the motion of the animal and identifying when the sensed motion is not related to eating periods of the animal. Based on the sensed motion which is not related to eating periods the estrus in the animal is identified.

Abstract: An animal training device that can be used to confine an animal during training, as well as methods for its use, is described. Embodiments of the present invention comprise a marginally unstable base that makes the device prone to rocking or toppling when physically disturbed by the movement of an animal in the device. Animals usually find the rocking or toppling unpleasant. An advantage of the animal training device is that an animal receives negative feedback from its undesirable behavior (excessive movement in or straining against the device) in the absence of disciplinary action by a human trainer. Additional advantages of the confining animal training device include, but are not limited to, reducing physical stress on a human trainer and decreasing the time required to train an animal.

Abstract: A phone for pets and pet owners is taught which allows the owner to call the house and “talk” to the pet. The owner can then see a video image of the pet in front of the pet phone to verify presence and happiness. The device can also present the owner's scent to the pet and deliver treats on remote command. In some embodiments, the pet can initiate the phone call.

Abstract: According to an illustrated embodiment, an animal behavioral control apparatus includes a cartridge, a housing, a head, and an extension assembly. The cartridge contains pressurized gas. The housing surrounds a part or more of the cartridge. The head is connected to the housing and includes an actuator and a valve. The valve engages the cartridge when the actuator is actuated in order to release gas out of the cartridge. The extension assembly is connected to the head to receive gas from the head. Upon actuation of the head, gas flows through the extension assembly and the animal behavioral control apparatus ejects a blast of gas which can be directed at an animal.

Abstract: A method and device for impeding the progress of a swimmer or a diver included a plurality of tendrils that can be launched into the path of a target and entangle the target.

Abstract: The subject invention concerns a method and device for assessing facial pain sensitivity exhibited by an animal. The device and method can be used, for example, to evaluate the effect of a disease state, drug, or other intervention, on facial pain sensitivity, such as orofacial pain sensitivity. In one embodiment, the device and method provide a way of assessing both heat and cold sensitivity (hyperalgesia and allodynia) in the facial region in a non-invasive manner. Additionally, since the animals can be kept unrestrained, there are less confounding factors such as stress, which are inherent to other facial pain testing techniques.

Abstract: A low impedance probe for delivery of a corrective stimulus to an animal. The low impedance probe includes an electrode for directing an electrical stimulus from an electrical source toward the skin of an animal. A conductive gel source is configured to provide conductive gel to a region between the electrode and the animal upon positioning of the electrode proximate the skin of the animal. The conductive gel establishes improved electrical connectivity between the electrode and the animal.

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. The captured data is then processed to create a database record which is associated with the selected subject and which can be used to uniquely identify the selected subject. The subject identification process is repeatable, so any subject can be accurately mapped to their associated database record, which database record can be updated to reflect changes in the subject.

Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting efforts to thwart discovery of a thing, the methods including: using a detector system in an area to detect a reaction product of a thing with descenter; producing with the detector system a detected reaction product level; comparing the detected reaction product level to a normal level of the reaction product in the area; and upon determining that the detected reaction product level is different from the normal level, providing an indication of possible presence of the thing based on said different level.

Abstract: An animal deterrent mat with animal detection capability. The animal deterrent mat produces a detection pulse that is attenuated when an object makes contact with the animal deterrent mat. The animal deterrent mat monitors the amplitude of the detection pulse and compares the measured detection pulse amplitude to one or more threshold values. When the amplitude of the detection pulse is below an upper threshold corresponding to the attenuated signal caused by an animal making contact with the animal deterrent mat and, optionally, above lower threshold corresponding to the attenuated signal caused by another object making contact with the animal deterrent mat, such as a human, a deterrent pulse selected to deter the animal from crossing or remaining on the animal deterrent mat is generated. When the amplitude of the detection pulse is below the optional lower threshold, no deterrent stimulus is generated.

Abstract: A clip device that pinch induces a behavior inhibition response in a mammal by means of two jaws that close to form a skin fold loop. The clips device provides manual scruffing by means of gathering skin between the two jaws such that internal surfaces of the skin structure are in juxtaposition to each other and external surfaces of a mammal's skin are at interfaces to the jaws. The clip device is placed on the mammal's neck region or its tail head at a non-noxious pressure between systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The clip device induces a passive response from a mammal so a procedure can be performed on the mammal with two free hands of a user.

Abstract: An animal deterrent apparatus and method is disclosed to help prevent an attack by an animal, the apparatus includes a base extending to a surrounding sidewall that terminates in an aperture, the base and sidewall defining an interior. The apparatus also includes a valve disposed within the aperture, the valve having a selected open state and a normally closed state. Further the apparatus includes a nozzle adjacent to the valve being in fluid communication with the valve, when the valve is in the open state fluid communication is from the interior to the environment and when the valve is closed state fluid communication is precluded from the interior to the environment. Further, a composition is disposed within the interior that includes a capsicum element, a heavy solvent, an emulsifier, and a light propellant, operationally the composition is dispersed from the interior to the environment being directed at the animal.

Abstract: A restraint device for primates capable of providing accurate visual psychological results of experiment by reducing stress given to the primates as subjects and stabilizing the psychological state of the primates. A box-like body (12) formed of a transparent material comprises foot stands (70), a waist stand (72), a first restraint (40) for restraining a body, and a second restraint (42) for restraining a neck in this order starting at the lower part. In both restraints, the first cutout parts (40aa, 42aa) of first plate-like bodies (40a, 42a) and the second cutout parts (40bb, 42bb) of second plate-like bodies (40b, 42b) are mutually overlapped with each other in the directions reverse to each other to form a first hole (50) for restraining the body and a second hole (52) for restraining the neck while adjusting their sizes. The heights and the inclinations of the first and second restraints can be adjusted.

Abstract: A positive-reinforced method of training a dog to chew or mouth only appropriate household items and chew toys. The method includes scent-training the dog (or puppy) to recognize a particular distinctive scent not normally found in nature as applied to an acceptable chewing object. The dog is introduced to the distinctive scent and encouraged to chew the marked acceptable chewing object. Each time the dog recognizes the scent, the dog is encouraged to chew the scented chewing object or some other acceptable chewing object marked with the distinctive scent and rewarded. The dog is tested with at least one unmarked object. The dog is trained once the dog can discriminate between the scent-marked object or objects and the unmarked object or objects. From there, the scent may be applied to other household items that are acceptable chewing/mouthing items (e.g., other chew toys). By absence of the scent, the dog recognizes that it cannot chew on unacceptable items (e.g., furniture, shoes).