Abstract: A control handle for selective attachment to an animal collar or harness includes a loop member having one or more retention members attached thereto. In addition, a grasping member is provided by the loop member. During use, the loop member of the control handle is brought under an attachment section provided by the animal collar or harness that is positioned around the animal's neck, and is pulled partially around the attachment section of the collar or harness to form a pair of grasping loops for the handler of the animal to hold. The retention members further retain the control handle to the attachment section of the collar or harness. As a result, the control handle converts the collar or harness into a working animal collar or harness.

Abstract: A clasp mechanism is disclosed. Example embodiments are directed to a clasp mechanism comprising: an outer tube; an end cap attached at a top of the outer tube; an inner tube encompassed by the outer tube, the inner tube having a beveled edge at the top; a spring and a plate captured between the end cap and the beveled edge of the inner tube; a slotted end-cap at the bottom of the outer tube; and a hook configured for insertion into a slot of the slotted end-cap, to latch to the beveled edge of the inner tube, and to be held in place by the spring and plate.

Abstract: A lighting apparatus for equine animals for use in low light or no light conditions is provided. The lighting apparatus comprises a backing material and a perimeter material secured to the backing material with the perimeter material having an aperture. A compartment is secured within the aperture of the perimeter material. At least one power source is contained within the compartment. A compartment cover covers the power source. At least one light source is electrically connected to the power source above the compartment cover. A cover covers the light bulb. An activation mechanism adjacent the cover illuminates the light source.

Abstract: A wind and mud deflector mounts by a strap arrangement to the chest and shoulder area of a race horse to render the chest area more aerodynamic and to deflect mud or debris from the chest and shoulder areas. The deflector is formed of a relatively thin flexible sheet material including a wedge or pointed forward section leading to side panels positionable on opposite sides of the horse. The panels include a neck recess and shoulder recesses for loosely receiving the neck and forward shoulder areas of the horse. The strap assembly is used to secure the deflector to the horse and hold the deflector such that the neck and shoulder recesses remain properly positioned. A pad is provided about peripheral edges of the deflector to avoid chafing.