COLLAPSIBLE TACTILE MAZE PET TOY

The invention relates to a novel pet toy that utilizes tactile signals to solve the maze puzzle and is collapsible allowing for compaction during play. Soft sides allow for compaction and reconfigurable inner walls create a potentially new and unique trajectory for the solver of the maze. A treat may be placed inside for reward motivation and to activate sensory triggers of an animal though the toy could be utilized by a human child as well.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION, INCLUDING BEST MODES OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

FIG. 1is a basic illustration of the maze10with the top portion open for the purposes of revealing the maze corridors20as they would be affixed within. The corridors are attached via Velcro-type connections and removable so that the maze can be reconfigured in order to further challenge the solver. Here, a treat30is shown as the object of the maze solution wherein an animal would smell the treat and pursue via sensory and tactile methods. Access apertures are shown40wherein an animal's snout or paw can be inserted. A human hand may most certainly be used as well.

FIG. 2illustrates the maze corridors50as detachable and thus may be reconfigured to challenge the solver. The base of the maze60allows for adhesion by a Velcro-type affixation of the corridors to said base consisting of a receiving fabric. Pieces may be quickly removed and reaffixed to create an alternate trajectory within the maze.

FIG. 3illustrates a dog70inserting its snout into the maze80as enticed by the scent of the aforementioned treat. Thus the animal will use its sensory and tactile skills to pursue the scent trail. As the dog applies pressure, the maze will deform or collapse under the pressure.

FIG. 4is a basic example of the collapsible nature of the maze90as responding to pressure applied by the dog100. The maze can be held in place by the animal110as shown and as per a natural instinct to restrict the object of its attention. During this process, the animal cannot see the object treat and must navigate through the aforementioned corridors to find the treat shown here in cut-out120.

FIG. 5is intended as a lighthearted illustration of a very pleased pet130who has solved the maze utilizing its tactile skills and produced its “treat”140. Once operant conditioning occurs and the dog has “memorized” the corridors, the corridors can be reconfigured to create a new challenge for solving the maze. This makes the inventive toy an appealing item for consumers as it will continue to motivate the solver as a result of the changing solutions.