Abstract: A latch system has a socket assembly and a plug assembly. When the socket assembly is within a predetermined distance from the plug assembly, a socket magnet member and a plug magnet member displace the socket assembly towards the plug assembly. To place the latch system in an engaged configuration, the head portion of the plug member passes through a main opening in a socket housing and a plug opening in a socket plate such that the head portion is within the primary chamber. To place the latch system in a latched configuration, the socket assembly is displaced relative to the plug assembly to arrange at least a portion of the socket plate within a head gap defined by a head portion of a plug member.

Abstract: A securing strap having at least two strap securing interfaces that functions in combination with a ratcheting device. The strap has a first end, a second end, an inner surface, an outer surface, an upper edge, and a lower edge. The first end of the strap is looped around a strap attachment rod on the ratcheting device and extends back over a section of the strap allowing the two strap sections to be attached. At intervals along the two attached strap sections, attachment means are used to create openings, into which the at least two strap securing intervals and at least one strap securing member are inserted when securing an object. Once the strap is inserted through the ratcheting device, the two securing interfaces and the at least one securing member, the strap remains in place securing the object even if the ratcheting device fails.

Abstract: A collar and leash system is provided which allows for easy connection of the collar with the leash without the pet owner having to bend down to attach or detach the collar leash. The leash includes a tubular member having a female attachment at one end thereof. The collar of the system has a male attachment member on a side thereof. Magnetic members on the female attachment member and male attachment member serve to guide the members together so as to connect at the dogs collar. A separate release line in the leash line wound about a spool serve to quickly connect or disconnect the two components.

Abstract: An animal tie-out device including a hoop consisting of two or more sections that can he assembled and disassembled from each other, and attached to a vertical, object, and a secondary ring attached at one end to the circular hoop, and at the other end to an animal restraint.

Abstract: The pet leash belt system leash providing a waist belt worn by pet owners and featuring a sliding ring mechanism on which the wearer secures a standard pet leash, thus affording the wearer a hands-free means of walking their animal while also affording the animal freedom of movement about their owner.

Abstract: A leash caddy system for use with a retractable leash is provided. The retractable leash has a handle. The system comprises a cover with an attachment mechanism secured to the cover for releasably securing the cover around the retractable leash through the handle of the retractable leash. A plurality of guide hoops is mounted to the cover. A first securement mechanism associated with a first guide hoop and a fourth guide hoop secures the cover about the retractable leash. A second securement mechanism associated with the second guide hoop and the fourth guide hoop secures the cover about the retractable leash. Upon securing the cover about the retractable leash, the cover forms a pocket for receiving the cover therein.

Abstract: A novel dog training device for preventing a dog from breaking before the dog's trainer releases the dog to retrieve an object is disclosed herein. The dog training device comprises: a restraining strap for restraining the dog; a device body attachable to the ground; and a pin assembly that includes a releasable strap pin. The pin assembly is connected to the device body. The restraining strap is attached to the releasable strap pin and configured to loop around the dog. The releasable strap pin includes a catch configured to engage a movable latch positioned adjacent to the strap pin, and the movable latch is connected to an actuator configured to move the latch in a back and forth direction to thereby engage or disengage the latch from the catch. The actuator is activated by a remote control device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for restraining an animal such as a dog within an automotive vehicle equipped with a personal (human) belt-type restraint system having an inertia brake. A tether is attachable at one end to an animal harness and at the other end to a section of human restraint system webbing, the latter attachment being achieved by way of a spring biased clamp having friction pads on the inside surfaces of two complemental clamp elements. The clamp elements are closed and secured by means of a buckle or clasp such as a loop/spring bayonet clasp.

Abstract: An animal restraint system. The animal restraint system includes a club and a locking device within the club. The locking device includes a first movable object and a second movable object. The locking device also includes a housing. The housing defines at least a cavity, a first bore for receiving the first movable object, and a second bore which opens into the cavity and intersects with the first bore, and in which the second movable object is at least partially disposed. Upon movement of the first movable object into a locking position within the first bore, the second movable object is caused to be moved to a position securing an external object within the cavity.

Abstract: The invention discloses a movable cradle capable of surrounding or enclosing an animal. The movable cradle may have a frame with a back end that opens and locks closed, and leg spaces or portions that bow-out from a general rectangular shape of the frame. Wheels may be attached to the frame near a back end of the cradle and near a front end of the cradle. The movable cradle may be used to train a surrounded animal.

Abstract: An animal training device and restraint (10) is comprised of a lead (14) having a length greater than the height of the cat and less than the length of the cat and a device (12) for attaching to the cat's collar or harness on one end and a weight (13), light enough to lift into the air and swing freely when the cat jumps, attached to the other end to provide the animal with some free roaming ability while preventing them from jumping onto furniture or over fences or after birds.

Abstract: A versatile and mobile pet leg restraining device used to secure dogs in a stationary position while performing bathing, grooming, nail clipping, and veterinarian exam operations. The pet leg restraining device attaches to most grooming tables, tubs and sinks and consists of suction cups, suction cup attachment hooks, adjustable straps and hook and loop or Velcro attachments. The pet leg restraining device is designed to secure the animal in a variety of positions by its legs to impair movement in a safe and comfortable manner.

Abstract: This system comprises a platform used as a restraint for animals and pets which design is based on an umbrella like motion to collapse and expand for easy use, transport and storage. The platform will connect to any readily available generic harness having a ventral strap, collar strap, and girth strap which by the design of these components provides a secure point of connection between the animal's or pet's front legs and the center of the platform. The platform is circular in form with a centered connection point that uses the animal's own weight and position to prevent free movement. The animal or pet can sit or stand but is limited in directional movement by the connection between the platform and the harness.

Abstract: The present invention is generally described as a method and apparatus for handling an animal, including but not limited to a domesticated dog, and more particularly is a leash apparatus made primarily of a durable strand material, such as nylon webbing, that facilitates the activity of walking or handling the animal.

Abstract: A control hood for blindfolding a person, comprising, an elongated handle, a ring attached to the handle, where said ring includes at least one peripheral flange, and a pliant blindfolding hood for covering the head and upper neck of a person and having an opening with elastic perimetric edges in one end thereof, said edges adapted to be mounted on the ring around its perimeter.

Abstract: An animal training device and restraint (10) is comprised of a lead (14) having a length greater than the height of the cat and less than the length of the cat and a device (12) for attaching to the cat's collar or harness on one end and a weight (13), light enough to lift into the air and swing freely when the cat jumps, attached to the other end to provide the animal with some free roaming ability while preventing them from jumping onto furniture or over fences or after birds.

Abstract: A safety strap for use with a retractable leash is described in which a wrist engagement and a leash engagement portion are longitudinally oriented with respect to one another and connected via a connection member. The wrist engagement portion is configured to fit around the wrist of a user and the lease engagement portion encircles the handle of the retractable leash itself. The longitudinal orientation of the two portions ensures that the handle of the retractable leash is oriented such that it can be grasped by the user.

Abstract: The body of the shock absorber is made of lightweight flexible resilient tubular polymer material which will not cause injury when struck by it. The body has a stop in each end and two compression springs within the tubular body between the stops. Tension cables are attached to the compression springs and do not pneumatically engage within the tubular polymer body and extend out of the body and respectively carry a snap hook for attachment to a dog collar and a ring for attachment to a dog leash. Pull on the tension members causes compression of the springs to reduce shock-loading on the dog walker. After the springs are pulled solid, the resiliency of the body continues to absorb shock.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of restraining a body. One embodiment of the invention includes portable surface configured with a latching interface a predefined distance from the edges of the portable surface. The system includes a tether for mechanically a body with the latching device. The length tether that is shorter than the predefined distance from the edges. Certain embodiments include a collapsible surface for ease of storing and transporting, a sensor mechanically associated with the latching device for activating an electronic device, and a collapsible housing.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a securing device configured to be coupled to an object to facilitate the securing of an animal to the object with a lead line is provided. The securing device comprises a frame for receiving a mounting structure for coupling the frame to the object, a retaining member having a first end moveably coupled to the frame, and a magnet configured to attract a second end of the retaining member toward the frame, wherein the retaining member and frame are configured to accept a length of the lead line in an interlaced fashion to frictionally retain the lead line.

Abstract: A new animal control device and method of use thereof that generally comprises a main lead device, a movement inhibiting device, and a multitude of attachment clasps and or rings, whereby the lead has first and second attachment ends with the first attachment end being removably attached or connected to a collar device that is worn by an animal, such as a dog or cat, and the second attachment end being removably attached or connected to the movement inhibiting device that may be in the shape of a sphere or other shape, that will act to inhibit the movement or running of an animal, and which will also serve as a training tool for conditioning an animal such as a dog or cat, to obey commands, walk as directed, and not run away, while wearing the invention.

Abstract: A pet strap includes a pulling unit, a locking unit, and an elastic drawing mounted between the pulling unit and the locking unit and including an elastic inner tube and a weaving outer layer mounted on a surface of the inner tube. Thus, the elastic drawing unit provides a buffering effect to the user to reduce the reaction applied by the pet on the user's hand, thereby preventing the user's wrist from being hurt when the pet is running violently. In addition, the weaving outer layer is enclosed around the inner tube, so that when the inner tube is broken due to an excessive reaction, the inner tube will not being sprung outward, thereby preventing the user from being hurt by the broken inner tube.

Abstract: Tethering stakes of the nature intended to be pounded flush with or below ground level. Certain of the tethering stakes include a cap on the pounding end which is adapted for ease of placement and release of a tethering line. Accordingly, the tethering line can be removed from the stake when it is to be pounded into the ground and then engaged with the stake only when tethering is desired. Certain of the embodiments include caps having uniquely shaped apertures for securing the tethering line. Another includes an aperture in communication with an aperture in the stake such that a lead cable or the like may be moved out of the way when the stake is pounded into the ground and may be fully received within the stake when tethering is not desired. Another embodiment employs a coupler passing through an aperture directly beneath the pounding surface to facilitate ease of attachment and removal of the tethering line.

Abstract: A tie-out that is attachable to a door and allows a user to secure an object or a pet to the door. When used with pets, the tie-out allows the user to connect a pet's leash to either side of a door without having to remove and reconfigure the tie-out, and is also configured to hold a pet's leash securely to a door without coming loose or damaging the door. Typically the tie-out is mounted to the bottom edge of the door, but may be mounted on a side edge of the door depending upon the design. In addition, the tie-out is not confined to use with doors located on the inside of a building and can be connected to doors that lead to the outside of a building.

Abstract: A method of securing an animal to a fixed object with a securing device via a lead line is disclosed, wherein the securing device includes a frame and a retaining member coupled to the frame and is mounted to the object. The method includes inserting a segment of the lead line through the frame, extending the segment of the lead line around the retaining member, and pulling the lead line to bring the lead line into contact with the retaining member to thereby frictionally interlace the lead line with the frame and the retaining member such that a panicked animal can pull a length of lead line through the securing device.

Abstract: A tie-out that is attachable to a door and allows a user to secure an object or a pet to the door is disclosed. When used with pets, the tie-out allows the user to connect a pet's leash to either side of a door without having to remove and reconfigure the tie-out, and is also configured to hold a pet's leash securely to a door without coming loose or damaging the door. Typically the tie-out is mounted to the bottom edge of the door, but may be mounted on a side edge of the door depending upon the design. In addition, the tie-out is not confined to use with doors located on the inside of a building and can be connected to doors that lead to the outside of a building.

Abstract: A pet umbrella combines an umbrella and a leash. The umbrella includes a shaft carrying a canopy moveable between open and closed positions. In the open position, the convex side of the canopy faces the umbrella handle. A leash is secured to the opposite end of the shaft on the concave side of the canopy. The canopy is preferably oval in plan and formed of clear plastic see-through material. The major axis of the oval defined by the canopy forms a plane with the shaft whereby the shaft forms an included angle in the plane with the shaft of less than 90° and preferably about 30°-60°.

Abstract: A high strength, longitudinally elongated elastic tie cord is provided as an integral, single strand, cast body formed from a selected thermosetting castable polyurethane having cast-in terminal end connector fittings arranged to assure against breakage and separation of the end connectors from the elastic body of the tie cord, whereby to provide an elastic horse tie training aid device arranged to elastically and resistively yield to stretching and jerking forces applied thereagainst by a struggling horse being trained to accept being tied, and to endure all such forces without damage or breaking under the full force of a horse struggling thereagainst until its inherent instinct to free itself from restraint has been overcome and broken by the training exercise, and thereby provide a safe and humane training aid for training horses to accept being tied while substantially eliminating injury to the animal during its training.

Abstract: A method of securing an animal to a fixed object with a securing device via a lead line is disclosed, wherein the securing device includes a frame and a retaining member coupled to the frame and is mounted to the object. The method includes inserting a segment of the lead line through the frame, extending the segment of the lead line around the retaining member, and pulling the lead line to bring the lead line into contact with the retaining member to thereby frictionally interlace the lead line with the frame and the retaining member such that a panicked animal can pull a length of lead line through the securing device.

Abstract: The present invention includes a pet-securing device that can be affixed to a horizontal or vertical surface such as a wall or floor. The invention includes a base, a bar, and accessories that allow multiple animals, such as dogs, to be secured to the pet securing device.

Abstract: A collar ball system has a plurality of rigid heavy metallic spherical balls coupled by a weld. A link has an inner end embedded in the weld and an outer end adapted to be clipped to one end of a leash. Free inner ends of a generally U-shaped handle are in contact with the balls. A plastic coating is secured over the balls, link and handle and tends, with the weld, to hold the balls, link and handle together and protect the balls, link and handle from the elements and abuse from a pet being tethered.

Abstract: The invention relates to a choke collar for animals, for dogs for example, with a neck part (20) and a pull chain (22), the strand-shaped neck part (20) being composed of a plurality of chain links comprising connecting links and two final links (28), said final links (28) being each provided with two eyes for engagement (32) with the final connecting links (34, 36) adjacent the two final links and with an eyelet (30), the pull chain (22) forming a closed loop that reaches through the eyelets (30) of the two final links (28). At least one of the two final links (28) is configured as a plate that is provided, in a first end region (46), with the eyelet (30) and, in a second end region (48) located opposite the first end region (46), with the two eyes for engagement (32).

Abstract: A multiple pet leash includes an elongated handle portion having a loop at one end and a swivel at another end, which engages at least two pet tethers. Each of the tethers includes a swiveled, snap hook members located at the distal end for attaching the tether to a dog collar. The proximate end of each tether is permanently but slidably attached to a“D” shaped portion of the swivel, which helps avoid tangling of the tethers due to pets crossing paths. The length of the handle portion is adjustable to allow the handler adjustment of the handle portion The lengths of the pet tethers are adjustable, enabling pets of different sizes to walk around, over or under each other without requiring the handler to constantly disconnect, untangle and reconnect the leashes in order to resume orderly walking.

Abstract: A tethering and restraint safety harness for transporting a large equine or bovine animal in their natural upright position in a trailer is disclosed. Adjustable front and rear girt straps encircle the front and rear parts of the animal immediately behind its front legs and just in front of its hind legs and an adjustable body strap extends around the lateral sides, breast and buttocks of the animal. Front and rear pairs of tether straps connect the harness to eye bolts on an overhead support structure of the trailer to maintain the animal in a natural standing position. The harness substantially reduces the likelihood of the animal tripping or falling and from being, tossed around in the trailer and injuring himself in the event of abrupt stops, sudden swerves, or a collision.

Abstract: A system and an apparatus for confining a pet within a preselected area is provided wherein the pet is secured to and restrained by a pet anchoring apparatus that is relatively devoid of obstacles and potentially impaling protrusions, that can be varied in weight and size to accommodate the pet and the environment of the area in which the pet is to be confined, and that can be provided with an auxiliary cover to thereby associate the apparatus uniquely with the pet is to be restrained or with the environment of the area in which the pet is to be confined. The system incorporates the apparatus along with additional features that protect the environment of the area in which the pet is confined against accidents and spills.

Abstract: An adjustable tethering device for various objects, including horses and other animals, includes a tie arm attachment structure, an elongated tie arm, a brace and a support structure which includes a bearing surface. The tie arm has one end pivotally attached to the tie arm attachment structure. The other end of the tie arm has an attachment point to which a lead of the object being restrained, such as a horse, may be attached. One end of the brace is pivotally attached to the tie arm between the tie arm attachment structure and the attachment point. The opposite end of the brace is supported by the bearing surface of the support structure when the tie arm is in an elevated position. In one embodiment, the tie arm attachment structure and the support structure comprise a single C channel. When used on a structure such as a trailer the adjustable tethering device may be adjusted between a travel position and one or more elevated positions.

Abstract: A leash retaining device (10) for controlling a dog leash (100) in a hands free manner wherein, the device (10) includes an elongated wrist strap member (20) having a pair of cooperating fasteners (21) (22) adapted to form a wrist encircling loop opening (23) and a relatively short leash strap member (30) the opposite ends of which (34) (36) are also provided with cooperating fasteners (31) (32) adapted to form a leash encircling opening (33) for engaging the looped proximal end (101) of a dog leash in a hands free fashion.

Abstract: A kit for confining a pet within a preselected area is provided. The kit includes a pet anchoring apparatus that can be freely positioned within any environment, that is relatively devoid of obstacles and potentially impaling protrusions, and that can be varied in weight and size to accommodate the pet as well as the environment of the area in which the pet is to be confined. The kit also includes a pet pad for protecting the surface area of the environment in which the pet is confined. The kit, moreover, can include a pet feeder and also can include a pet bed, provided either separately or as an integral part of the pet.

Abstract: A magnetic connector includes first and second connector parts, each having a respective magnet. The second connector part includes an overhanging lip positioned on one side of the respective magnet and a cord loop positioned on the opposite side of the respective magnet. The first and second magnets are oriented to automatically hold the first and second connector parts together, with the first connector part disposed in a first position between the overhanging lip and the cord loop. The overhanging lip is positioned such that a tensile force applied to the first connector part and resisted by the cord loop translates the first connector part from the first position to a second position, in which the first magnet is closer to the overhanging lip and the first connector part is at least partially received under the overhanging lip, thereby mechanically interlocking the first and second connector parts.

Abstract: A collar for collaring a snake has an elongated collar section forming a physical collar when wrapped around the body portion of the snake. The collar further has a support section for supporting an attachment mechanism for accepting attachment of a tether and a connector system comprising at least two components affixed to strategic portions of the collar section for securing the collar in place around the body portion of the snake. The length of the collar section is such that a portion thereof overlaps itself when fitted around the snake providing an adjustable interface containing separate components of the connector system whereby mating the connector components together. secures the collar in place on the snake. In one embodiment the collar apparatus further includes a concertina movement-neutralization device for reducing concertina movement through the collar.

Abstract: A securing system configured to be coupled to an object to facilitate the securing of an animal to the object with a lead line is provided. The device comprises a plurality of spaced-apart members coupled configured to accept a length of the lead line in an interlaced fashion to frictionally retain the lead line, and a mounting structure coupled with the plurality of spaced-apart members, the mounting structure being configured to couple the device to the object.

Abstract: Disclosed is a leash pouch for storing disposable bags and for temporarily storing animal waste comprising a first pocket having an opening, a second, pocket having an opening, the second pocket having a device for at least partially restricting its opening whereby at least one disposable plastic bag can be stored in the second pocket. The first pocket also has a device for selectively closing its opening, the first pocket being adapted to temporarily store a plastic bag having animal waste therein. The pouch has an upper fastener device for detachable securement to a handle portion of a leash for the animal and has a lower device for slidable connection with a linear portion of the leash.

Abstract: A tethering system (20) for an animal (502) includes a ground station (22) which is suitable for insertion into the ground (500). The ground station has an upwardly opening cavity (23). A portable pin (32) is shaped and dimensioned to be rotatably received by the cavity of the ground station. Pin (32) has a tether connector (34) at one end, so that when the pin is inserted into the ground station, the pin and tether connector may swivel 360°. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of ground stations are installed in the ground, and the pin is sequentially moved from one ground station to another ground station as desired to provide a new area for the animal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a pet are disclosed. The apparatus includes an elongated leash having a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the leash includes a clasp connected thereto, and the clasp, itself, includes a locking mechanism (such as a key lock or a combination lock) therein that allows the clasp to open and close when unlocked and that prevents opening of the clasp when locked. The clasp is adapted for connection to a collar or a harness worn by the associated animal to be secured. When the clasp is connected to the collar or harness, enlargement or other operation of same for purposes of releasing the associated animal is prevented. Further, when the locking mechanism of the clasp is locked after the clasp has been connected to the collar or harness, unauthorized removal of the clasp from the collar or harness is prevented. The proximal end of the leash includes a handle that is preferably defined from conventional molded plastic or the like.

Abstract: An improved system for tethering an animal in a desired region, comprising a bar perpendicular to a below ground stake section for anchoring and stabilizing the device; supporting an upper removable or detachable above ground shaft portion having a rotary tethering assembly intermediate between lower and upper bearing sections.

Abstract: A method and system for infusing and monitoring a tethered laboratory animal includes a platform suitable for carrying the laboratory animal. A tether assembly includes a flexible conduit for connecting to the animal and a tether for tethering the animal. A torque sensor detects a motion of the animal and drives the tether assembly in response to the detected motion of the animal, and thereby reduces the torque on the animal. The platform is driven in a direction opposite to the tether assembly so that it appears to be stationary when the tether assembly is driven in response to a detected motion of the animal.

Abstract: A slip leash for dogs and other small quadrupeds has a head loop portion and a handle portion, configured generally to resemble a figure-eight. In the preferred embodiment, both the head loop portion and the handle portion are rigid along part of their respective lengths and flexible along the remainder of their respective lengths. Near the end of the rigid portion of the handle loop, a ring is attached or formed from the leash material, which preferably comprises a hollow braided rope. The leash material is passed through the ring so that the head loop can be made smaller (tighter around the head of the animal) or looser to release the animal by pulling on opposing sides of the handle loop.

Abstract: An improved universal joint for use on a leash for dogs is provided with a hook element, a rotary connector, a retaining tube and a sleeve. The rotary connector has a ball-shaped joint head and an extended engaging rod. The universal joint is fixedly combined with a hook element that is engaged with the retaining tube by way of a pin shaft. The retaining tube has an open end and a semi-open and roundly cornered dome-shaped end having a through hole. The rotary connector is led through the through hole of its engaging rod with the ball-shaped joint head confined in the retaining tube. The engaging rod having a central deep cavity for receiving the front tip of the leash so that the leash and the rotary connector can be punched to fix together. The ball-shaped joint head and the roundly cornered retaining tube permit the rotary connector and the leash to operate smoothly at a wide range of angles so as to effectively avoid abrasion and deformation of the retaining tube and the rotary connector in operation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a leash for controlling an animal. The leash of the invention includes a sleeve portion having a loop portion that can form a cuff around a user's wrist, and a gripping portion that is held in the palm of the user's hand. Both the loop portion and the gripping portion are formed at least partially of a soft fabric-like material to prevent abrasion of the user's skin.

Abstract: A restraint system which can remain on an animal at all times. In one embodiment, the restraint system includes a strap which serves as both a collar and a leash. The restraint system can be in either an extended state or a retracted state. In the extended state, the collar portion is positioned around the animal's neck and the leash portion extends from the collar portion to the animal owner's hand. In the retracted state, the entire restraint system is stored around the animal's neck by reversibly attaching the leash portion to the collar portion, as well as to the leash portion itself, in an overlapping spiral configuration. VELCRO.TM. strips can be used to reversibly attach the leash and collar portions. Another embodiment of the invention includes a restraint system which includes a collar assembly coupled to a leash assembly. The collar assembly and the leash assembly are made from separate straps and are attached to each other by a connecting element.