Breaking Or Training Method Patents (Class 119/905)
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Patent number: 11800849Abstract: One variation of a method for selectively serving primary reinforcers to an animal includes: accessing a set of characteristics of an animal and estimating a target caloric intake of the animal based on the set of characteristics; identifying a type of primary reinforcer loaded into a training apparatus configured to dispense units of the primary reinforcer based on behaviors performed by the animal responsive to commands output by the training apparatus; in response to identifying the type of primary reinforcer as a first primary reinforcer, loading a first nutrient profile for the first primary reinforcer; and, in response to the first nutrient profile specifying a first caloric density of units of the first primary reinforcer, loading a first training protocol for a first training session for the animal onto the training apparatus based on the target caloric intake of the animal.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2021Date of Patent: October 31, 2023Assignee: Companion Labs, Inc.Inventors: Paul Mundell, John Honchariw
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Patent number: 8884097Abstract: Described is a method of conditioning an invertebrate to detect a compound at and beyond a threshold range. In one embodiment the conditioned invertebrate is Microplitis croceipes. Compounds the invertebrate can detect include skatole and androstenone. An additional step includes selecting a compound and negatively conditioning the invertebrate at a concentration wherein the invertebrate will not respond to negatively conditioned compound concentration.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2012Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of AgricultureInventors: Dawn M. Olson, Felix Wackers, John-Erik Haugen
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Patent number: 8869750Abstract: An animal training apparatus is comprised of a leash connector attached to a chest portion of a harness. The harness is arranged to prevent the leash connector from shifting to the back of the animal. The harness is preferably comprised of a chest strap for positioning across the chest of the animal between the tops of the front legs, a withers strap for positioning across the withers of the animal behind the neck and between the shoulders, and a girth strap for positioning across the girth of the animal behind the front legs on the underside. The leash connector is attached to an intermediate position on the chest strap for pulling on the chest portion of the harness. The animal is prevented by the rotational force from pulling further.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2010Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: LML Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Linda J. Lady
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Patent number: 8776723Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: CanCog Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Joseph A Araujo
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Patent number: 8578882Abstract: A system and method for cognitive enrichment of an animal. At least one display device is configured to display stimuli to an animal. At least one input device is configured to accept input from the animal. At least one reward dispenser is configured to dispense a reward to the animal. At least one processor is communicatively coupled with the at least one display device, the at least one input device, and the at least one reward dispenser. Execution of computer-readable instructions causes the at least one processor to carry out steps including displaying one or more stimuli to the animal using the at least one display device, accepting an input from the animal corresponding to at least one of the one or more stimuli, making a dispensing decision based on the input, and dispensing a reward using the at least one reward dispenser based on the dispensing decision.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: CanCog Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Joseph Araujo
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Patent number: 8505494Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2010Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Radio System CorporationInventor: Christopher E. Mainini
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Patent number: 8460690Abstract: A process for deterring behavior of pets which includes providing a device comprising a reflective metalized plastic sheet having a thickness of about 0.5 to 10.0 mils, having a reflective and non-reflective side and capable of making a sound when the sheet is flexed by pressure from a pet, a fibrous layer, and a decorative fabric layer, where the layers are joined together to form the device, and the reflective side of said reflective plastic layer is oriented outward, where the device is capable of being folded or rolled-up, and when placed on an object, the device deters pets from getting on said object.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: PetzOff InternationalInventor: Jeremiah S. Downs
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Patent number: 8389090Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Pioneer Fe-Lines, LLCInventors: Bonnie Pemberton, Frank A. Wolfe
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Patent number: 8251019Abstract: Can the Barking Dog is an audible device that individuals can use to train their dogs to refrain from barking uncontrollably. This item comprises a small metal aluminum container that has loose material (media) inside to create a jarring audible noise. Users simply shake the device creating a noise that stops a dog from barking. The container may be coated in rubber for increased durability. The device may have a wrist loop attached to the top making it easy for users to carry the device while walking a dog. The loose materials may be metal marbles or other items that create a metal-on-metal sound that is effective in capturing a dog's attention. The device may be designed with a button-operated component that compresses the loose material allowing users to silence the device in between uses. Further, the dog-bark inhibiting and training device includes a kit and a method of use.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2010Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Inventor: Christine Hultgren
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Patent number: 8187533Abstract: Systems and methods for using a scent elimination device to conceal contraband and then training service animals to determine if an ozone-based scent-removal technique has been used to remove scent from contraband are disclosed. The systems and methods comprise providing a plurality of packages. At least one of the plurality of packages containing a predetermined amount of a contraband substance. Further, the systems and methods comprise generating a gaseous stream of descenting material from a portable device. The gaseous stream of descenting material contains ozone. Further, the systems and methods comprise dispersing the gaseous stream of descenting material over the contraband in a concentration sufficient to eliminate the scent. The descented contraband may be placed in an enclosure for transport. Further, the systems and methods comprise introducing a service animal to the plurality of packages.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2008Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Parah, LLCInventor: Scott Elrod
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Patent number: 8127718Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2007Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Inventors: Thomas Barry Hoegh, Timothy Harold Grafe
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Patent number: 8028662Abstract: 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).Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2009Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Inventor: Laurel D. Raymond
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Patent number: 8004420Abstract: A security lighting system and method are intended to dispel and/or affect unwanted humans or animals by providing lighting that varies with a suitable switching frequency, such as between 5 and 70 Hz. The lighting of a light source of the system may be varied by a control unit as to intensity, color, pattern etc., with a preferred switching frequency being between about 15 and 20 Hz for humans. A proximity detector may be provided to activate the system when an unwanted presence is detected. Such varying lighting causes feelings of physical and psychological discomfort, which have found to be effective in chasing away animals and dispelling or disorienting humans.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2006Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Wilhelmus Frederik Laurens Maria Hoeben, Ronald Edwin Lavooi, Petrus Johannes Mathijs Van Der Burgt
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Patent number: 7930993Abstract: The invention relates to a dispenser device, in particular, a reward dispenser device, comprising at least one dispenser for the release of a dispenser material for an animal, in particular, a dog, whereby the dispenser is provided with at least one dispenser material housing and a fixing device for the carrying thereof. According to the invention, the dispenser device (52) comprises the dispenser (3) and at least one signal emitter (45), the dispenser (3) has a release mechanism (31) for the release of the or a part of the dispenser material (21), operated by remote control, in order to carry the dispenser (3) on the animal (1) the fixing device (5) is embodied as an animal fixing device (4) and the signal emitter (45), not carried by the animal (1), is embodied for the remote control operation of the release mechanism (31).Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2006Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Inventor: Fritz Gross
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Patent number: 7900585Abstract: Described is a two-probe bark control device for detecting an animal's bark by way of an electrode that is also used in delivering an electrical stimulus to the animal. The two-probe bark control device includes a housing, a first probe, and a second probe. The first and second probes include first and second electrodes, respectively. The first electrode is secured to the housing by way of a resilient overmolding such that the first electrode extends outwardly from the housing and has the potential to vibrate within the housing. The housing is carried by the animal such that the first probe detects the bark of the animal and the first and second probes deliver an electrical stimulus to the animal in response the first probe detecting the animal's bark such that the first probe both detects the animal's bark and delivers an electrical stimulus to the animal.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Radio Systems CorporationInventors: Albert L. Lee, IV, Steven M. Schrick, David A. Hinkle
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Patent number: 7886699Abstract: An animal training apparatus is comprised of a leash connector attached to a chest portion of a harness. The harness is arranged to prevent the leash connector from shifting to the back of the animal. The harness is preferably comprised of a chest strap for positioning across the chest of the animal between the tops of the front legs, a withers strap for positioning across the withers of the animal behind the neck and between the shoulders, and a girth strap for positioning across the girth of the animal behind the front legs on the underside. The leash connector is attached to an intermediate position on the chest strap for pulling on the chest portion of the harness. The animal is prevented by the rotational force from pulling further.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Inventor: Linda J. Lady
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Patent number: 7387087Abstract: An animal training apparatus is comprised of a leash connector attached to a chest portion of a harness. The harness is arranged to prevent the leash connector from shifting to the back of the animal. The harness is preferably comprised of a chest strap for positioning across the chest of the animal between the tops of the front legs, a withers strap for positioning across the withers of the animal behind the neck and between the shoulders, and a girth strap for positioning across the girth of the animal behind the front legs on the underside. The leash connector is attached to an intermediate position on the chest strap for pulling on the chest portion of the harness. The animal is prevented by the rotational force from pulling further.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2006Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Inventor: Linda J. Lady
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Patent number: 7343879Abstract: A method of altering a stimulation level of an animal behavior modification device including the steps of detecting compliant behavior of the animal and reducing a stimulation level an incremental amount between a current stimulation level and a minimum level dependent upon the detecting step.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2006Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Innotek, Inc.Inventors: Duane A. Gerig, Curtis McLay, John J. Brynda
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Patent number: 7219620Abstract: A dispensing system (200) for chewable pet toys (100) contains multiple toys and dispenses them at intervals determined by one or more modes of operation. A display (220) and keypad (400) are used to enter programming data into the memory of a microprocessor (315). When the system is in operation, the display indicates progress through the program, the mode of operation whether MANUAL, RANDOM, or BMOD (behavior modification), the time elapsed, and the number of toys remaining. At various times, sounds emanate from a loudspeaker (320), vibration emanates from a vibrator (328), light emanates from a light source (325), and odor emanates from an odor generator (327). Toys are dispensed down a ramp (225), at predetermined times, or at predetermined times modified by random numbers. Predetermined dispensations permit modification of the pet's behavior (BMOD). Random variations on a predetermined schedule of dispensations (RANDOM) prevent the pet from memorizing a schedule.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2003Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Dogopolis, LLCInventors: David N. Rucker, Sandi L. Thompson
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Patent number: 7198008Abstract: The Scent-A-Wheel device consists of several different parts connected together to form a device that acts like a carousel. The device consists of a hub (ball bearing or axle design), arms attached to the hub (“spokes”), a two-piece, adjustable shaft to support that hub and arms, and a base of four “legs” to provide stability and support. A ball bearing within the hub allows the hub and arms to turn on the base.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Alvin Harden Poyner
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Patent number: 7174855Abstract: A method of modifying the behavior of an animal including the steps of increasing a stimulation level of a stimulation device in stimulating contact with the animal, the stimulation level associated with one of a plurality of levels, the plurality of levels including a minimum level, applying a stimulation to the animal associated with the stimulation level, determining a compliant behavior of the animal and reducing the stimulation level to one of the plurality of levels between a current stimulation level and the minimum level dependent upon the determining step.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Innotek, Inc.Inventors: Duane A. Gerig, Curtis McLay, John J. Brynda
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Patent number: 7146935Abstract: A method for training an animal to proceed through an enclosure begins with the act of providing a generally clear or translucent enclosure having a first end, which serves as an entrance and a second end, which serves as an exit. A trainer encourages the animal to enter the entrance and can walk alongside the enclosure allowing the animal to generally observe the trainer to reduce any apprehension and to generally encourage the animal to proceed through the enclosure. Subsequently, the clear or translucent enclosure is replaced with an opaque enclosure once the animal has gained sufficient experience and comfort with the clear and/or translucent enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Flexmaster Canada Ltd.Inventor: Melinda Donnelly
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Patent number: 6860240Abstract: The pet training device comprises a handheld wireless command module, a wireless receiver module connected to an adjustable collar assembly. The wireless command module is used to select a stimulation mode, stimulation duration, and a stimulation intensity level through the used of one-touch digital switches located on the device front panel. The selected functions are displayed on a LCD. The stimulation commands are transmitted to the wireless receiver module where they are demodulated into control signals that trigger a shock, a vibration, or both. When the wireless receiver is placed in the no-bark mode, the wireless receiver module will generate a shock when triggered by a bark sensor. Power controllers built into both the wireless command module and wireless receiver module optimizes battery life by turning the devices off after a period of inactivity.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2002Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: D. T. Systems, Inc.Inventors: Joon S. Kim, Gi Hyun Lee, Dong Joo Lee
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Patent number: 6782847Abstract: A system for non human animal-based surveillance including a non-human animal-borne, non-human animal noise sensor, and a non-human animal noise analyzer operative to receive sensed non-human animal noises, to determine at least partially therefrom whether an alarm situation exists and to provide an alarm indication output.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2003Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Inventors: David Shemesh, Dan Forman
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Patent number: 6694916Abstract: A dispensing system (200) for chewable pet toys (100) contains multiple toys and dispenses them at intervals determined by one or more modes of operation. A display (220) and keypad (400) are used to enter programming data into the memory of a microprocessor (315). When the system is in operation, the display indicates progress through the program, the mode of operation whether MANUAL, RANDOM, or BMOD (behavior modification), the time elapsed, and the number of toys remaining. At various times, sounds emanate from a loudspeaker (320), vibration emanates from a vibrator (328), light emanates from a light source (325), and odor emanates from an odor generator (327). Toys are dispensed down a ramp (225), at predetermined times, or at predetermined times modified by random numbers. Predetermined dispensations permit modification of the pet's behavior (BMOD). Random variations on a predetermined schedule of dispensations (RANDOM) prevent the pet from memorizing a schedule.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2001Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: Dogopolis, LLCInventors: David Nathan Rucker, Sandi Louise Thompson
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Patent number: 6668760Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the barking of a dog through application of a spray deterrent, or spray control bark collar. The spray control bark collar administers a dose of a pressurized substance in response to the barking of the dog. The spray control bark collar detects the barking of the dog through the measuring of vibrations produced by the dog. In addition, the spray control bark collar delivers successively larger doses of the spray deterrent to the dog to deter the dog from further barking should the dog fail to respond to previous deterrent attempts. Finally, the spray control bark collar monitors the usage of the spray deterrents to gauge the amount of the deterrent substance remaining in the deterrent substance reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Radio Systems CorporationInventors: William S. Groh, Albert L. Lee, IV.
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Patent number: 6591786Abstract: The invention discloses a system, device, and method for covert, wireless communication between a human handler and a trained animal. A small receiving unit is placed in a cured material which has conformed to the contours of a trained animal's inner ear thereby eliminating the need for an invasive method for implanting anything into the animals ear. The receiving unit has no external communication features such as wires or external antennae and thus it is covert. The transmitting unit may be hand-held by the animal's handler or used with a headset and attached microphone. Neither the transmitting or receiving units have any wires or external antennae that may be dangerously snagged while the animal is performing service or be noticed by any onlookers.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2002Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Inventor: Eric R. Davis
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Patent number: 6531145Abstract: A method for luring animals, repelling animals and training animals and a product used therewith comprising microporous beads having animal attractant scents, animal repellant scents and animal training scents, respectively, imbibed within the beads. The beads with the animal attractant scents are configured to release the animal attractant scents in order to attract a predetermined animal. Likewise, the beads with the animal repellant scents are configured to release the animal repellant scents in order to repel a predetermined animal. Similarly, the beads with the animal training scents are placed onto a predetermined location and a predetermined animal is trained to perform a predetermined sequence using the beads.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2000Date of Patent: March 11, 2003Inventor: Tony J. Reichert
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Patent number: 6425350Abstract: There exists a wide variety of strains of fungi and bacteria that can cause allergic and sometimes fatal reactions to humans who are exposed to these strains. Many of these contaminant strains exist and grow in buildings, structures and transportation sources used by people in everyday routine situations. A device simulating one or more of the noxious contaminants is used to train dogs to detect these contaminants in varying situations. A non-intrusive method for training one or more dogs to detect contaminants in a building or other structure, using the device, is also provided. By using dogs trained by the method, trainers can then instruct these contaminant-detecting dogs to precisely and efficiently locate areas of active contamination for future remediation without damage to the site under investigation.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2000Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Inventor: Susan Bulanda
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Patent number: 6311645Abstract: A humane, pain-free method of animal training includes interrupting the animal's vision to deliver a training stimulus. A lens having an electro-optic shutter is placed within the animal's field of vision. The shutter is open and does not obstruct or interrupt the animal's vision while the animal exhibits desirable behavior. The shutter is closed and interrupts the animal's vision to deliver a training stimulus as needed. The closed shutter is re-opened to remove the training stimulus and continue training.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2001Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Inventor: Joseph S. Brown
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Patent number: 6055940Abstract: An animal sorting tool with poking tip for humanely sorting and herding animals. The animal sorting tool with poking tip includes a housing with first and second ends, a pair of lateral sides extending between the ends, and a pair of panels. The ends, lateral sides, and panels of the housing define an interior of the housing. The housing has a tube extending through the ends of the housing. The tube has an open end positioned towards the first end of the housing and a closed tip portion protruding outwardly from the second end of the housing. A handle is inserted in the tube through the open end and extends into the tip portion of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1999Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Inventor: Jim Koehn
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Patent number: 5983839Abstract: A device for repelling potentially bulling cattle is described. This invention addresses the problem of the mounting and/or riding of confined animals by other cattle confined in the same pen by providing a permeable container which holds a pungent smelling substance and which is easily attachable to the animal which is to be protected. This invention discourages bulling by masking the pheromones of the animal to be protected by an odor which is repellant to cattle. This invention achieves the objective of reducing or eliminating the bulling characteristics of penned bovine in a manner that is cost effective, easy to install and maintain, and which induces no health risk to the animals involved. Thereby, this invention provides, for cattle producers, substantial cost savings, both is reduction of cattle losses and management facilities and labors.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1997Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventors: Timothy Patrick O'Byrne, Gordon Ray Roberts, Cameron Olsen French, Ludovic Lajos Silasi, Oliver Margham Greenhalgh
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Patent number: 5911197Abstract: A canine training device protects a helper's hand and arm while training a dog to bite and hold the arm of a human. The canine training device includes a sleeve which fits over the helper's arm and is shaped to correspond to the shape of the helper's forearm and hand. A bite bar is secured to an exterior surface of the sleeve and has a substantially wedge-shaped cross-section. A cover is arranged over the sleeve and the bite bar for grasping by the dog. The training device also includes a separate upper arm guard which is secured to the arm of the helper and covers the upper arm from the shoulder to the elbow. The bite bar is preferably adjustable on the sleeve to achieve different presentation angles for different wearers. The training device provides improved comfort and improved responsiveness due to the contoured shape of the training device sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1998Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignee: Orthopedic DesignInventor: Rainer Schmid
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Patent number: 5845984Abstract: A device for repelling cats from areas where their presence is unwanted comprised a tranparent clylindrical shaped canister capable of light transmission therethrough which can optionally be mounted upon a center support having various attachments thereto for placement of the device in indoor or out door areas. An optional communication light source causes the canister to glow and transmit light when in a darkened area.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1996Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Inventor: Lawrence Bonilla
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Patent number: 5809939Abstract: A positive reinforcement bridle bit is described that is useful for training an animal, for example, a horse. Dispensing, at will, a pleasant tasting fluid therefrom, permits the immediate reward of the animal for performing a desired behavior or calming a fear. The invention may be used, for example, for the training of an unbroken colt or green-broke animal, for correction and retraining of problem horses and for further training of previously trained horses.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1996Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Inventors: Glenice Robart, Dave Robart
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Patent number: 5799616Abstract: A method for a person to interact with an animal has been invented which includes a person throwing a plate on which at least one item is releasably mounted, retrieving the plate by the animal for the person, releasing of the at least one item from the plate by the person, and giving the at least one item to the animal.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1996Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Charlie Van NatterInventor: Guy L. McClung, III
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Patent number: 5706762Abstract: A training device in the form of a retrieving dummy having a life-like appearance and texture. The device is durable in the course of repeated, rigorous, and demanding use, and is configured to encourage and train the dog to grasp the device in the proper manner, i.e., by the body portion and away from the head, feet or tail of the bird.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1995Date of Patent: January 13, 1998Inventor: Thomas Dokken
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Patent number: 5566645Abstract: A method for animal training. More specifically, this invention provides a method for rapidly and effectively training horses and other animals by facilitating the delivery of a primary reinforcement reward substance to the animal simultaneously with, or immediately following the exhibition of desired behavior by the animal.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1994Date of Patent: October 22, 1996Inventor: Toni H. Cole
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Patent number: 5494002Abstract: An animal training device comprises an elongate body having opposite ends and retaining rings proximate each end to couple the body to a conventional leash. A trigger extends laterally from the body to contact the leash. The trigger is responsive to a force exerted thereon by the leash so that tensioning of the leash activates a sound generator. The sound generator, when activated, emits a sound having a preselected frequency to startle the animal so that it eventually learns to avoid the sound and walk safely at the owner's side.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1994Date of Patent: February 27, 1996Inventor: Teddy R. Greene
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Patent number: 5494001Abstract: A canine lavatory of modular construction for effective toilet training and continued use. A suitable site is selected and the dog is trained to relieve itself at-the site (typical training for a dog) and the lavatory enclosure is gradually built therearound after the dog has become enured to use the particular site. The lavatory comprises an enclosure with an open, readily accessible entrance having a flushing activating member for automatic activation by the entrance of the dog within the enclosure. The lavatory further comprises flushing and gravity dependent drainage systems. The flushing mechanism is adapted to be activated to fill to level and then to automatically trip flush. The filling and flush trip are adjustably timed according to dog habit and need. With the timed fill and self flush, the water fill system is completely purged of above-ground residual water to prevent freezing in an outdoor facility.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1994Date of Patent: February 27, 1996Inventor: Jake Leibowitz
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Patent number: 5483924Abstract: A device that automatically repeats a prerecorded message for training a bird to mimic the message. The device is sized such that it may be attached to a bird cage by adjustable clips. The device electronically records and stores a message spoken by the user and plays back the message through a speaker for the bird at intervals determined by a timer. A user may record any type of message that the user wishes for the bird to learn. The message may be of variable length up to 60 seconds in duration. The user may select a delay interval between one second and thirty minutes by utilization of the timer. Once the user activates the play-back, the device will play the prerecorded message at a selected volume, automatically repeating in intervals equal to that selected by the user. Thereafter, the device will continue to repeat the prerecorded message at the selected interval until the user deactivates the device.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1994Date of Patent: January 16, 1996Inventor: Russell C. Whitaker
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Patent number: 5474033Abstract: A device for amusing animals and teaching animals not to chew on undesirable objects such a furniture and clothing comprises a chewing device suspended from the neck of the animal. The animal will choose the suspended device to chew. The chewing device may be flavored. Medication may also be administered through the device.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1994Date of Patent: December 12, 1995Inventor: Robert K. Mitchell, Jr.
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Patent number: 5415131Abstract: An improved animal litter preparation is provided for attracting a household domesticated animal and for absorbing liquids and liquid-containing waste released by the attracted animal. The litter preparation comprises a plurality of preformed and nontoxic liquid absorbing masses of solid matter each comprised of an absorbent substance, at least one releaser pheromone compound which is a biological attractant for the animal, and at least one blending agent.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1994Date of Patent: May 16, 1995Assignee: Trustees of Tufts CollegeInventor: Nicholas H. Dodman
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Patent number: 5392735Abstract: An innovative communication device and learning tool that enables marine mammals, such as dolphins, to communicate with humans and with each other. The communication device includes a keyboard having a plurality of hollow keys. Each key includes a switch which can be activated by the dolphin, and a two- or three-dimensional object which can be distinguished by dolphins from other objects in other keys both visually and through echolocation. A microprocessor based controller can be used to associate audible feedback, such as unique words or phrases, with each key and to generate that word or phrase when the proper key is selected. Thus, a dolphin can select a word or phrase by locating the associated key and by activating the switch for that key to communicate with humans or with another dolphin. Likewise, a human can activate the switch to generate a spoken word or phrase to communicate with a dolphin.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1992Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Assignee: The Walt Disney CompanyInventors: Mark J. Xitco, Jr., John D. Gory, Kerry M. Perkins, Marshall M. Monroe, William G. Redmann
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Patent number: 5383426Abstract: A dog harness has a collar having a front ring and at least one ring located at its free ends. A releasable buckle functions to releasably couple the collar free ends. A cord passes through the front ring and forms a pair of loops for disposition in the foreleg pits of a dog. A fastener at a cord free end releasably secures this end which cord is also adapted to be coupled permanently with a leash. A strain on the leash and harness caused by the dog will exert pressure to the foreleg pits which will result in the dog reacting to decrease this pressure.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1994Date of Patent: January 24, 1995Assignee: American Cord & Webbing Co., Inc.Inventor: Mark J. Krauss
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Patent number: 5370083Abstract: A leash controllable harness adapted to inhibit a dog wearing the harness from straining against the leash held by an individual walking the dog, the harness inducing the dog to come to a halt or to walk at a pace acceptable to the leash holder. The harness is composed of a pair of loops that depend from a leash-coupling junction at which the loops are joined, the loops being angled at the junction with respect to each other so that they cross over at a crossover site below the junction. When the harness is installed on the dog, the coupling junction to which a leash is connected then overlies the dog's shoulder intermediate the right and left forelegs, and the crossover site lies under the dog's chest, one loop running from the site through the crotch between the chest and the left foreleg and back to the junction, the other loop running from this site through the crotch between the chest and the right foreleg back to the junction.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1993Date of Patent: December 6, 1994Inventor: Joseph S. Sporn
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Patent number: 5359964Abstract: A leash-controllable dog harness adapted to inhibit a dog from straining against a leash held by an individual walking the dog, the harness inducing the dog to come to a halt or to walk at a pace acceptable to the leash holder. The harness is composed of a pair of loops and a shoulder junction having left and right openings, each loop being formed by a strap of adjustable length whose leading end is linked to the junction and whose trailing end slides through a respective opening and is coupled to the leash whereby when the leash is strained, both straps are then pulled. The loops are angled with respect to each other to interconnect at a crossover site. When the harness is installed on a dog, the shoulder junction then overlies the dog's shoulder intermediate the right and left forelegs, and the crossover site lies under the dog's chest, one strap running from the site through the right foreleg crotch, the other strap running from the site through the left foreleg crotch.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1994Date of Patent: November 1, 1994Inventor: Joseph S. Sporn
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Patent number: 5351653Abstract: A method for training an animal capable of learning to associate a consistent positive audio tone with pleasant feelings. The method includes a consistent positive audio tone capable of being sensed by the animal without startling the animal, and a consistent negative audio tone distinct from the positive audio tone capable of being sensed by the animal and startling the animal. The invention enables a trainer to encourage good behavior by the animal by applying the positive audio tone after the animal has been trained to associate the positive audio tone with pleasant feelings, and to discourage bad behavior by the animal by applying the negative audio tone.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1993Date of Patent: October 4, 1994Assignee: Canine Concepts, IncorporatedInventors: Joseph E. Marischen, Peter L. Borchelt
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Patent number: 5329885Abstract: A leash controllable harness adapted to inhibit a dog wearing the harness from straining against the leash held by an individual walking the dog, the harness inducing the dog to come to a halt or to walk at a pace acceptable to the leash holder. The harness is composed of a pair of loops that depend from a leash-coupling junction at which the loops are joined, the loops being angled at the junction with respect to each other so that they cross over at a crossover site below the junction. When the harness is installed on the dog, the coupling junction to which a leash is connected then overlies the dog's shoulder intermediate the right and left forelegs, and the crossover site lies under the dog's chest, one loop running from the site through the crotch between the chest and the left foreleg and back to the junction, the other loop running from this site through the crotch between the chest and the right foreleg back to the junction.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1993Date of Patent: July 19, 1994Inventor: Joseph S. Sporn
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Patent number: RE36322Abstract: A device that automatically repeats a prerecorded message for training a bird to mimic the message. The device is sized such that it may be attached to a bird cage by adjustable clips. The device electronically records and stores a message spoken by the user and plays back the message through a speaker for the bird at intervals determined by a timer. A user may record any type of message that the user wishes for the bird to learn. The message may be of variable length up to 60 seconds in duration. The user may select a delay interval between one second and thirty minutes by utilization of the timer. Once the user activates the play-back, the device will play the prerecorded message at a selected volume, automatically repeating in intervals equal to that selected by the user. Thereafter, the device will continue to repeat the prerecorded message at the selected interval until the user deactivates the device.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1996Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Inventor: Russell C. Whitaker