Patent Publication Number: US-2018035641-A1

Title: Portable Hand-Held Devices for Cleaning an Animal&#39;s Paw and Related Methods Thereof

Description:
This application is a continuation application of International Application No. PCT/US2015/045813, filed on Aug. 19, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/039,181, filed on Aug. 19, 2014, which are hereby both incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     I. FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure generally relates to portable hand-held devices for cleaning an animal&#39;s paw, and related methods thereof. More specifically, devices of the present disclosure include a cleaning mechanism capable of rotational movement in varying directions relative to the outer surface of an animal&#39;s paw when the device is in use. 
     II. BACKGROUND 
     Grooming and maintaining overall cleanliness is one of an animal&#39;s basic needs and, as a result, an important aspect with regard to caring for an animal. Similar to humans, animals including farm animals and pets require ongoing physical care and maintenance to, inter alia, maintain a healthy body; prevent and/or treat injuries, illness and disease; minimize and/or remove the presence of foreign substances; and to look and feel their best. 
     It is especially important to be able to thoroughly and effectively clean the paws of an animal for any one of the reasons highlighted above including others. For example, on a regular basis it is not uncommon for the paws of an animal to come into direct contact with any one of: allergens, germs, chemicals, irritants, dirt, insects, feces, parasites, ticks, and/or fleas. Therefore, it is important to regularly clean the paws of an animal to remove such substances. In addition, many animals sweat or perspire through their paws, thereby creating a suitable environment for germs and bacteria to grow. Moreover, depending on the circumstances, breed, size, species, and/or type of animal, many animals have paws which can be prone to cracking, cuts, blisters, and/or otherwise irritated unless properly cleaned on a regular basis. 
     However animals, especially pets, generally do not enjoy having an owner or caretaker clean their paws. Many animals and pets are nervous and simply do not like being around or in contact with water, including cleaning agents. As such, although important and often times necessary, cleaning an animal&#39;s paws can be a difficult and onerous task for many. 
     Another frequently encountered problem with cleaning an animal&#39;s paws is related to the fact that animal paws have several varying contours, ridges, nooks and crannies, which further differ based on the animal type and breed. Typically only a carefully skilled veterinarian or trained animal care professional can attempt to remedy these difficulties. However, even trained professionals cannot offer fail-safe results in cleaning the paws of animals as they are subject to human error. Therefore, although methods currently exist in the art for cleaning an animal&#39;s paws (e.g., using a washcloth, soaking the paw in a water bath, using a brush or a sponge), such known methods are deficient and do not address the aforementioned difficulties and problems that remain in the art. 
     One example of known devices and methods in the art can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,302,915 to Leary et al., incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and commonly owned with the present application. U.S. Pat. No. 7,302,915 describes a portable device for cleaning an animal&#39;s paw, having a container adapted to receive a cleaning agent. The container includes a cleaning platform, with at least one scrubbing element attached to the interior surface of the cleaning platform. Although the device of U.S. Pat. No. 7,302,915 allows for an animal&#39;s paw to be inserted into the device and manually scrubbed or cleaned therein, there remains a need for devices and methods capable of addressing the varying contours, paw shapes, ridges, nooks, etc. of animals of differing size, shape, species, and/or type. 
     In view of the foregoing, a need exists for innovative devices and methods for cleaning an animal&#39;s paws which overcome the above challenges and difficulties, many of which are innate in an animal&#39;s behavior (e.g., strong resistance to paw cleaning) and anatomy (e.g., varying contours and shape outline of an animal&#39;s paws). It would be beneficial to have devices and methods for cleaning an animal&#39;s paws capable of achieving optimum results for thoroughly yet gently cleaning an animal&#39;s paws, in addition to devices and methods capable of adapting to the changing contours of an animal&#39;s paws, whether by type, breed, species, or size. It would also be desirable to have devices and methods that do not demand specialized abilities or skills to clean an animal&#39;s paws. 
     Embodiments of the present invention address these and other needs by providing portable, hand-held devices for cleaning an animal&#39;s paw. Devices of the present invention are configured to engage in rotational movement such that portions of the device having cleaning elements or scrubbing elements attached thereto (e.g., brushes, pads, bristles, etc.) rotationally move about the paw of the animal when the paw is inserted into the device. The rotational movement is not particularly limited and can, for example, be in clockwise/counterclockwise directions and vertical directions, among others. 
     III. SUMMARY 
     At least one embodiment of the present invention includes a device for cleaning an animal&#39;s paw. The device includes a container having a handle and an opening adapted for receiving the animal&#39;s paw. A flexible insertion piece or squeegee member is provided which substantially covers the opening. The flexible insertion piece or squeegee member includes a plurality of radially recessed portions recessed in a direction of insertion of the paw. The device further includes a trigger mechanism hingeably connected to the handle and a substantially cylindrical inner container or cleaning platform. The inner container includes a plurality of through holes and a plurality of cleaning elements or scrubbing elements extending radially inward from an inner wall of the inner container. The inner container also includes a base, whereby the base of the inner container is in operable communication with a rotational axle. The rotational axle is also in operable communication with the trigger mechanism such that depression of the trigger mechanism effects rotational movement of the inner container. 
     At least one embodiment of the present invention includes a device for cleaning an animal&#39;s paw. The device includes a container having a handle and an opening area adapted for receiving the animal&#39;s paw. A flexible insertion piece or squeegee member is provided which substantially covers the opening area. The flexible insertion piece includes a plurality of radially recessed portions recessed in a direction insertion of the paw. The device further includes an actuating mechanism connected to and in operable communication with the device, and a substantially cylindrical inner container or cleaning platform. The inner container or cleaning platform includes a plurality of through holes, a plurality of cleaning elements or scrubbing elements extending radially inward from an inner wall of the inner container, and a base. The base of the inner container is operably connected to a rotational axle. The rotational axle is in operable communication with the actuating mechanism such that engagement of the actuating mechanism effects rotational movement of the inner container. 
    
    
     
       IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings. 
         FIG. 1  is an illustration of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is an illustration of portions of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is an illustration of a bottom view of portions of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is an illustration of a cross-sectional cutaway view of portions of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is an illustration of a cross-sectional cutaway view of portions of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is an illustration of a cutaway view of portions of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is an illustration of a cutaway view of portions of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is an illustration of a cutaway view of portions of a device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  depicts a brush inserted into a through hall of the wall of the inner container in accordance with the invention. 
     
    
    
     V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As used herein “substantially”, “relatively”, “generally”, “about”, and “approximately” are relative modifiers intended to indicate permissible variation from the characteristic so modified. They are not intended to be limited to the absolute value or characteristic which it modifies but rather approaching or approximating such a physical or functional characteristic. 
     In this detailed description, references to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “in embodiments” mean that the feature being referred to is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Moreover, separate references to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “embodiments” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive, unless so stated, and except as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Thus, the invention can include any variety of combinations and/or integrations of the embodiments described herein. 
     The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms, “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the root terms “include” and/or “have”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of at least one other feature, integer, step, operation, element, component, and/or groups thereof. 
     As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. 
     As used herein, and unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present). 
     Grooming, such as cleaning an animal&#39;s paws, is one of the most important aspects of animal and pet care. Aside from an animal&#39;s paws coming into contact with any number of foreign and/or hazardous substances, many animals and pets have specific concerns which make regular and consistent paw cleaning a necessity for animal and pet owners and caretakers. 
     For example, in the case of a dog&#39;s paws, it is not uncommon for dogs to have yeast on their paws, especially in warmer climates and during hot summer months. Yeast growth can generate an itching sensation for a dog on its paws, which in turn can cause a dog to excessively groom, lick, and/or chew its paws in constant discomfort. One way to treat and/or prevent this from happening is to clean and wash the paws regularly (and sometimes even daily), with or without a pet friendly shampoo. 
     In the winter months, many animals and pets can come into contact with de-icing salt, which can be found all over sidewalks and streets. Even in the case of indoor animals, traces of de-icing salt can be brought in from the shoes of owners after they return from being outside. Repeated contact with de-icing salt can irritate an animal&#39;s paws and cause the paws to become dry and crack. One way to treat and/or prevent this from happening is to clean and wash the paws regularly (and sometimes even daily) to remove salt residue and moisturize the paws. 
     Accordingly, it is generally settled that cleaning an animal&#39;s paws with some regular frequency is an important and integral piece toward the ongoing care and well-being of the animal or pet. Nevertheless, benefits of cleaning an animal&#39;s paws cannot be generally accomplished or achieved by devices and methods known in the art. 
     For instance, one known method for cleaning an animal&#39;s paws is to soak or submerge the paws in a tub of water or soapy water. Although the submersion method may overcome challenges in making sure every contour and groove of an animal&#39;s paw is reached, this method is not practical for the majority of animals and pets. More specifically, most animals and pets do not enjoy or easily allow one to clean its paws, and typically will not allow any cleaning to happen without first offering up some strong resistance. Therefore, only a carefully skilled and trained professional can be successful in employing this method for cleaning an animal&#39;s paws. Similar challenges apply when using a brush, a wash cloth or a sponge to clean an animal&#39;s paws. 
     Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention address and alleviate the above challenges by providing portable, hand-held devices that are configured to allow for rotational movement of cleaning elements or scrubbing elements while the paw of the animal is inserted into the device. 
     Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be appreciated that the same reference numerals are used for components in one figure of the accompanying drawings which are substantially similar to components present in another figure of the accompanying drawings. However, use of identical reference numerals should not be understood that components which share identical reference numerals are necessary identical and should not be understood to limit said components in any way. 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , a device  10  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. The device  10  can be hand-held and portable, allowing it to be easily transported to local and remote locations as needed or desired by the user. The device  10  can include a container  11 . The container  11  can be substantially cylindrical in shape. Alternatively, in at least some embodiments, the container  11  can be angular in shape, polygonal, and longitudinally rectangular or squared or any other suitable shape. 
     In at least one embodiment, the container  11  can include a handle  12  and an opening area  15  adapted for receiving a paw of an animal. Regarding the handle  12 , in at least one embodiment, the handle  12  can include a gripping portion (not illustrated). In certain embodiments, the handle  12  can be ergonomically configured to have any number of curvature(s) located along a length of the handle. 
     The Flexible Insertion Piece 
     Regarding the opening area  15  adapted for receiving the paw of an animal, in at least one embodiment, a flexible insertion piece or a squeegee member  16  can be provided. The flexible insertion piece or squeegee member  16  can be configured to substantially cover the opening area  15 , as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the flexible insertion piece or squeegee member  16  can include a plurality of radially recessed portions  17  recessed in a direction of insertion of the paw. More specifically, during use, the paw of an animal enters the device  10  at the opening area  15 , passing through the flexible insertion piece or squeegee member  16 . The plurality of radially recessed portions  17  recessed in the direction of paw insertion facilitate entry of the paw into the device  10 . 
     In addition, the plurality of radially recessed portions  17  of the flexible insertion piece  16 , together, can serve to provide an opening that is: (1) sufficiently wide or large enough in size to fit the paw of an animal, and yet (2) restricted or limited enough in size such that the paw of the animal cannot easily exit the device  10 , and any cleaning fluid or cleaning agent added to device  10  can remain substantially within the device  10 . Moreover, the plurality of radially recessed portions  17  can also operate to provide a substantially funnel-like entry for the animal&#39;s paw. 
     In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible insertion piece  16  can be a one piece material having a plurality of accordion folds thereon, and a girdle attached to the flexible insertion piece. 
     It will be appreciated that the opening area  15  and the flexible insertion piece or squeegee member  16  in devices  10  of the present invention can be adapted to accommodate different sizes, species, and/or types of animals, including farm animals and pets, and to accommodate specific needs of the user and the subject animal(s). In at least one embodiment, the flexible insertion piece  16  can be removable (e.g., for cleaning purposes), and can be replaceable to change the overall size of the opening for the animal&#39;s paw with differently sized flexible insertion pieces  16 . 
     In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible insertion piece  16  can be removably attached to a rim portion or an upper lip  18 . In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the rim portion or upper lip  18  can be removably attachable to the main body of the container  11 , as shown in  FIG. 1 . In at least one embodiment, the rim portion or upper lip  18  can be permanently affixed or attached to the container  11 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , in at least one embodiment of the present invention, the rim portion or upper lip  18  can include a series of step-like ridges, or steps, narrowing in an upward direction toward the opening area  15  of the device  10 . Alternatively, the rim portion  18  can be a single rim or circular ring traveling around a perimeter of the container  11 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the flexible insertion piece  16  can be permanently affixed or attached to the container  11 , such as to the rim portion  18 , in devices  10  where a rim portion  18  is present. 
     In terms of material, the flexible insertion piece  16  can be made of any strong, flexible, resilient, non-reactive, durable and non-toxic rubber or plastic material, such as natural and synthetic rubbers or a blend of synthetic rubbers, nylons, polyesters, and vinyl plastics. In embodiments, illustrative examples of suitable materials the first and second portions can be made of include, but are not limited to, neoprene plastic, isoprene, styrene-butadiene rubber, butadiene, ethylene-propylene, butyl, chloroprene, nitrile rubber and mixtures thereof. 
     The Handle 
     Referring back to the handle  12  of the device  10 , although the embodiment of  FIG. 1  illustrates the handle  12  connected to a side of the device  12 , with the gripping portion of the handle  12  substantially coaxial with the container  11 , it will be appreciated that in alternate embodiments of the present invention, the gripping portion of the handle  12  can be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the container  11 . The handle  12  can also be of varying lengths. In particular, although the handle  12  of  FIG. 1  has a length which substantially corresponds to the length of the main body of the container  11 , in some embodiments a shorter length handle is employed. 
     Moreover, in cases where it is desired, devices of the present invention can include more than one handle connected to the device at various locations and in various configurations. It will be appreciated that in cases where more than one handle is present in the device, each of the multiple handles can share features described herein with respect to one handle, such as the handle  12  of the device  10  of  FIG. 1 . 
     In at least one embodiment of the present invention having multiple handles, the handles can be of a shorter length than the overall length of the container, and be aligned consecutively along a length of the container. Alternatively, the handles can be positioned at different locations across the outer surface area of the device. 
     Devices  10  of the present invention can also include a trigger mechanism  13 . In at least one embodiment, the trigger mechanism  13  can be hingeably connected to the handle  12  at, for example, connection points  214 ,  414 ,  514  and  614 , as shown in  FIGS. 2, 4, 5 and 6 , respectively. 
     With reference to  FIG. 2 , portions of a device  210  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. The device  210  can include a container  211 , having a handle  212 . The handle  212  of the device  210  of  FIG. 2  contains features that are substantially similar with or identical to features corresponding to the handle  12  of the device  10  of  FIG. 1 . 
     The device  210  of  FIG. 2  also includes a rim portion  218  corresponding to an opening area adapted for receiving the animal&#39;s paw (not illustrated in  FIG. 2 ). The rim portion  218  of the device  210  of  FIG. 2  contains features that are substantially similar or identical to features corresponding to rim portion  18  of the device  10  of  FIG. 1 . 
     The device  210  can also include a trigger mechanism  213  hingeably connected to handle  212  at, for example, a connection point  214 . It will be appreciated that although the trigger mechanism  213  connection to the handle  212  is that of a hingeable connection, allowing for hinged movement, other mechanisms for connecting a trigger mechanism to a handle, or to the device as whole, can also be envisioned in the scope of the present invention. 
     The trigger mechanism  213  can be intended to be operable to the device  210 , in that when a user actively or repeatedly engages or depresses the trigger mechanism  213 , said action can effect rotational movement of a cleaning platform to clean an animal&#39;s paw, to be described in this specification, infra. 
     The Inner Container 
     More specifically, devices of the present invention can include an inner container or cleaning platform (not illustrated in  FIG. 2 , but see components  420 ,  520 ,  620 ,  720 , and  820  of  FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 , respectively). The inner container or cleaning platform can be a substantially cylindrical inner container. In at least one embodiment, the inner container can have a substantially straight shape in a longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the inner container or cleaning platform can be can have at least one curvature, ridge, and/or contour in shape in a longitudinal direction. 
     In certain embodiments, the inner container or cleaning platform can be removable from the device. In alternative embodiments, the inner container can be permanently affixed, attached, or molded into the main body of the device. 
     In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the inner container can include a plurality of through holes (not illustrated in  FIG. 2 , but see components  421 ,  521 ,  621 ,  721  and  821  of  FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 , respectively). 
     The plurality of through holes can be of a substantially round or circular shape, or in the shape of any polygon and/or design shape (e.g., hearts, stars, spades) as desired. In at least one embodiment, the plurality of through holes can be of a substantially uniform shape and size throughout the device. In alternate embodiments, the plurality of through holes can be of varying shape and/or sizes. 
     The plurality of through holes allow for a user to add a cleaning agent or cleaning fluid to the device, and also allow for circulation of said cleaning agent or cleaning fluid throughout the device when cleaning an animal&#39;s paw. The type of cleaning agent or cleaning fluid is not particularly limited, and can include water, shampoo, conditioner, veterinarian or doctor approved cleaning agents, medicated treatment fluids, flea, tick and/or parasite treatments, moisturizing solutions, disease prevention solutions, diluted solutions and fluids, and combinations thereof. In embodiments, the cleaning fluid can be added, for example, through the opening area of the device. 
     In at least one embodiment, a plurality of cleaning elements or scrubbing elements can be provided, extending radially inward from an inner wall of the inner container (the inner wall of the inner container is not illustrated in  FIG. 2 , but see components  423 ,  523 ,  723  and  823  of  FIGS. 4, 5, 7, and 8 , respectively). 
     Suitable cleaning elements or scrubbing elements for the present invention include, but are not limited to, any one of brushes, bristles, sponges, pads, and/or exfoliating surfaces, and combinations thereof. The cleaning or scrubbing elements can be made from synthetic, natural, and/or organic materials, and combinations thereof. 
     In at least one embodiment, the cleaning or scrubbing elements can be removable from the device. This allows for a user to replace and/or remove and clean said cleaning elements. In at least one embodiment, at least one cleaning element can be fixedly attached, or permanently attached to the device, such as to the inner wall of the inner container. The present invention can also include embodiments having both removable and permanently attached cleaning elements in the same device. 
       FIG. 9  depicts a cleaning element including brush  920  with a foot  925  sized larger than a hole  930  of inner container  923  where the scrubbing elements extends through hole  930  towards the inner container  923 . 
     In at least one embodiment, the cleaning elements can be of substantially the same type and/or substantially the same shape and/or substantially the same size within the same device. Alternatively, embodiments of the present invention can include devices having varying sized cleaning elements, and/or cleaning elements of varying shape, and/or cleaning elements of varying type, in the same device. Within variations of type, shape, and/or size can also be, in cases where it is desired, variations in removability to the device. 
     For example, at least one device of the present invention can have a plurality of bristles extending radially inward in the inner container of the device. The plurality of bristles can all be of substantially the same size, and the plurality of bristles can all be permanently affixed or attached to the device. 
     Alternatively, at least one device of the present invention can have cleaning elements which include both bristles, cloth, and sponge-like materials. At least some of the sponge-like materials can be removable from the device, and the sponge-like materials are all of varying thickness and length within the same device; and the bristles are permanently or fixedly attached to the device. 
     Rotational Movement 
     With regard to rotational movement, as mentioned briefly above in conjunction with the trigger mechanism  213 , devices  210  of the present invention can also include a rotational axle (not illustrated in  FIG. 2 , but see components  430 ,  530 ,  730  and  830  of  FIGS. 4, 5, 7 and 8 , respectively). In at least one embodiment, a base of the inner container (not illustrated in  FIG. 2 , but see components  422 ,  522 ,  722  and  822  of  FIGS. 4, 5, 7 and 8 , respectively) can be in operable communication with the rotational axle. 
     In at least one embodiment, the rotational axle can also be in operable communication with the trigger mechanism  213  such that depression, or continued pressure and release of the trigger mechanism  213  effects rotational movement of the inner container. Put differently, with regard to the device  210  of  FIG. 2 , by continually depressing and releasing the trigger mechanism  213 , and because of the operable communication of the rotational axle with both the trigger mechanism  213  and the inner container, depression and release of the trigger mechanism can cause the inner container and, as a direct result, the cleaning elements extending radially inward from an inner wall of the inner container, to engage in rotational movement. 
     In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the rotational movement can include movement in a substantially clockwise and counter-clockwise direction. For example, with regard to the device  210  of  FIG. 2 , depression of the trigger mechanism  213  can cause the inner container and, as a direct result, the cleaning elements extending radially inward from an inner wall of the inner container, to move in a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction with each depression and release of the trigger mechanism  213 . 
     Put differently, in at least one device embodiment of the present invention, the inner container having a plurality of cleaning elements extending radially inward therefrom, can be operably associated with a rotational axle or shaft, said rotational axle configured to rotationally guide the inner container to engage in rotational movement within the device. As a result, an animal, paws, can be effectively and thoroughly cleaned by devices of the present invention, which overcome difficulties innate with the anatomy of different types, species and sizes of animals. 
     Referring back to rotational movement, in at least one embodiment of the present invention, the rotational movement can include movement in a substantially vertical direction relative to the rotational axle of the device. In at least one embodiment, the rotational movement can be in a circular motion, similar to a centrifugal device or the spin cycle of a washing machine. At least one embodiment of the present invention can be configured to engage in multiple different types of directions and/or degrees of rotational movement. 
     In cases where it is desired, certain embodiments of the present invention can also include a switch (not illustrated), operable change a direction and/or a degree of rotation within the device. 
     Operable Communication with the Rotational Axle and Other Operable Connections within the Device 
     Referring back to  FIG. 2 , at least one device  210  of the present invention can include a spring  240  having two ends,  240   a  and  240   b . The spring  240  can be operably attached to the rotational axle at one end of the spring  240   a , and operably attached to an inner wall of the inner container at an opposite end of the spring  240   b . In embodiments, the spring can be configured to collect and release tensional energy as, for example, the trigger mechanism  212  of the device is engaged. It will be appreciated that other mechanisms can be present in embodiments of the present invention to effect rotational movement, aside from a trigger mechanism. 
     Embodiments of the present invention can also include a lever  245  having two ends,  245   a  and  245   b . The lever  245  can be operably connected to a base of the rotational axle at a location toward a center  246  of the lever  245 . The spring  240  can also be operably attached to the rotational axle via a connection point at one end  245   a  of the lever  245 . 
     A connecting string  250  having two ends,  250   a  and  250   b , can also be provided, as shown in  FIG. 2  in at least one embodiment of the present invention. The connecting string  250  can be attached at one end  250   a  to the lever  240 ; and attached at its opposite end  250   b  to the trigger mechanism  213 , as shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     The connecting string  250  can be made of any strong, resilient, durable material such as nylons, polyesters, aramid, and natural and synthetic fibers, and combinations thereof. The connecting string can  250  can also be made of elastic materials in cases where it is desired. 
     Removability of the Inner Container from the Device 
     Moreover, as noted in part above, in at least one embodiment of the present invention, the inner container can be removable from the device. In at least one embodiment, the inner container can include a central opening having a raised wall, upwardly extending from a perimeter of the central opening. See components  424 ,  524 ,  724  and  824  of  FIGS. 4, 5, 7, and 8 , respectively. 
     The raised wall can have a plurality of recesses, spaced throughout a perimeter of the raised wall. See components  525  and  825  of  FIGS. 5 and 8 , respectively. The plurality of recesses can be spaced uniformly or non-uniformly. Correspondingly, the rotational axle can include a ring portion covering at least part of an outer surface of the rotational axle. See components  431  and  731  of  FIGS. 4 and 7 , respectively. 
     The ring portion of the rotational axle,  431  and  731 , can include a plurality of recess portions  432 ,  732 , configured to connectably engage with the plurality of recesses  525 ,  825 , of the raised wall of the base of the inner container. More specifically, in at least one embodiment, the raised wall of the inner container can be configured to fit over the ring portion of the rotational axle, where recesses in the raised wall of the inner container mate with recesses in the ring portion of the rotational axle. 
       FIG. 4  shows one embodiment where the inner container  420 , and particularly the raised wall  424  at the base of the inner container, includes recesses which mate or fit comfortably with the recesses  432  associated with the ring portion  431  of the rotational axle  430 . 
     In certain embodiments, the inner container can slide comfortably into or engage with the recesses of the ring portion of the rotational axle, such that the inner container can relatively easily slide in and out of the device. In alternate embodiments, the inner container can fit more snugly into the ring portion of the rotational axle. 
     In at least one embodiment, the ring portion of the rotational axle, and the raised wall at the base of the inner container can be threaded components, configured to threadably engage with each other. In such embodiment(s), the inner container can include a threaded center opening, capable of threadably engaging with a threaded ring portion present on the rotational axle. 
     In alternate embodiments, the inner container, such as the base of the inner container, can be operably connected to the rotational axle via a snap-fit mechanism, a latching mechanism, a clicking and/or locking mechanism (not illustrated). Moreover, in any one of the above embodiments, multiple locks, snapping mechanisms, latches, and/or clicking mechanism can be incorporated within the device. 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , a device  310  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. More specifically,  FIG. 3  provides a view from the bottom of portions of said device  310 . The device  310  can include a handle  312 , a container  311 , and a lever  345  having a central portion  346  and two ends  345   a ,  345   b . The device  310  can also include a spring  340  having two ends  340   a ,  340   b.    
     Features associated with the handle,  312 , container  311 , lever  345 , and spring  340 , and related ends, substantially correspond with, and/or are identical to, features described above with regard to the devices of  FIGS. 1 and 2, 10 and 210 , respectively. 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , a device  410  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. More specifically,  FIG. 4  provides a cross-sectional cutaway view of portions of the device  410  according to at least one device embodiment of the present invention. 
     The device  410  of  FIG. 4  can include a container  411 , a handle  412 , a trigger mechanism  413 , a hinge connection  414  of the trigger mechanism  413  to the handle  412 , an opening area  415  for the insertion of the paw of an animal into the device  410 , and a rim portion  418  located near the opening area  415 . 
     The device  410  can also include an inner container  420  having a plurality of through holes  421 , a base  422  of the inner container  420 , an inner wall  423 , and a raised wall  424  at a base  422  of the inner container  420 . The device  410  can also include a rotational axle  430  having a ring portion  431 , a second ring portion  434 , and an o-ring present (not illustrated) provided between the ring portion  431  and the second ring potion  434 . 
     The device  410  can also include a connecting string  450 , having two ends,  450   a ,  450   b , and a lever  445 , also having two ends,  445   a ,  445   b  and a center portion  446  of said lever  445 . 
     Features associated with the aforementioned components of the device  410  of  FIG. 4  substantially correspond with, and/or are identical to, features described above with regard to the devices of  FIGS. 1 and 2, 10 and 210 , respectively, and features described above generally in relation to devices of the present invention as a whole, but perhaps not in relation to a specific Figure. 
     With reference to  FIG. 5 , a device  510  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. More specifically,  FIG. 5  provides a cross-sectional cutaway view of portions of the device  510  according to at least one device embodiment of the present invention. 
     The device  510  of  FIG. 5  can include a container  511 , a handle  512 , a trigger mechanism  513 , a hinge connection  514  of the trigger mechanism  513  to the handle  512 , an opening area  515  for the insertion of the paw of an animal into the device  510 , and a rim portion  518  located near the opening area  515 . 
     The device  510  can also include an inner container  520  having a plurality of through holes  521 , a base  522  of the inner container  520 , an inner wall  523 , and a raised wall  524  at a base  522  of the inner container  520 . The raised wall  524  can have a plurality of recesses  525  positioned across a perimeter of the wall  524 . It will be appreciated that  FIG. 5  shows a cutaway section of the device  510 , and accordingly, approximately half of the inner container  520 , and associated parts thereof. 
     The device  510  can also include a rotational axle  530  having at least one o-ring  533  provided, for example, between a ring portion and a second ring potion (not illustrated in  FIG. 5 , but see components  733  and  833  of  FIGS. 7 and 8 , respectively). 
     The device  510  can also include a connecting string  550 , having two ends,  550   a ,  550   b , and a lever  545 , also having two ends,  545   a ,  545   b  and a center portion  546  of said lever  545 . 
     Features associated with the aforementioned components of the device  510  of  FIG. 5  substantially correspond with, and/or are identical to, features described above with regard to the devices of  FIGS. 1 and 2, 10 and 210 , respectively, and features described above generally in relation to devices of the present invention as a whole, but perhaps not in relation to a specific Figure. 
     With reference to  FIG. 6 , a device  610  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. More specifically,  FIG. 6  provides a cross-sectional cutaway view of portions of the device  610  according to at least one device embodiment of the present invention. 
     The device  610  of  FIG. 6  can include a container  611 , a handle  612 , a trigger mechanism  613 , a hinge connection  614  of the trigger mechanism  613  to the handle  612 , and a rim portion  618 . 
     The device  610  can also include an inner container  620  having a plurality of through holes  621 , and a base  622  of the inner container  620 . It will be appreciated that a portion of the container  611  in the device  610  of  FIG. 6  is cutaway in the illustration thereof. 
     The device  610  can also include a connecting string  650 , having two ends,  650   a ,  650   b , and a lever  645 , also having two ends,  645   a ,  645   b  and a center portion  646  of said lever  645 . A spring  640  having two ends,  640   a ,  640   b  can also be provided. 
     Features associated with the aforementioned components of the device  610  of  FIG. 6  substantially correspond with, and/or are identical to, features described above with regard to the devices of  FIGS. 1 and 2, 10 and 210 , respectively, and features described above generally in relation to devices of the present invention as a whole, but perhaps not in relation to a specific Figure as illustrated herein. 
     With reference to  FIG. 7 , cutaway portions of a device  710  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. It will be appreciated that  FIG. 7  places visual emphasis on a cutaway portion of the inner bottom portion of the device  710 , particularly with regard to parts associated with the rotational axle  730 . 
     The rotational axle  730  can include a ring portion  731  having a plurality of recesses  732  positioned across a perimeter of the ring portion  731 . The recesses  732  can be of uniform shape, size, and/or uniformly spaced apart. Alternatively, the recesses  732  can be of varying shape, size, and/or spaced non-uniformly throughout a perimeter of the ring portion  731 . The rotational axle can also include an o-ring  733  and a second ring portion  734 . 
     The device  710  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention can also include a container  711  and an inner container  720  having a plurality of through holes  721 , and a base  722  of the inner container  720 . The inner container  720  can include a raised wall  724  provided at the base  722  of the inner container  720 . 
     The device  710  can also include a connecting string  750 , having two ends,  750   a  and (second end not illustrated), and a lever  745 , also having two ends,  745   a ,  745   b  and a center portion  746  of said lever  745 . 
     Features associated with the aforementioned components of the device  710  of  FIG. 7  substantially correspond with, and/or are identical to, features described above with regard to the devices of  FIGS. 1 and 2, 10 and 210 , respectively, and features described above generally in relation to devices of the present invention as a whole, but perhaps not in relation to a specific Figure. 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , cutaway portions of a device  810  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated therein. It will be appreciated that  FIG. 8  places visual emphasis on a cutaway portion of the inner bottom portion of the device  810 , particularly with regard to parts associated with the rotational axle  830 . The rotational axle  830  can include an o-ring  833  provided along a length of the axle  830 . 
     The device  810  according to at least one embodiment of the present invention can also include a container  811  and an inner container  820  having a plurality of through holes  821 , and a base  822  of the inner container  820 . The inner container  820  can include a raised wall  824  provided at the base  822  of the inner container  820 . The raised wall  824  can include a plurality of recesses  825 . 
     The device  810  can also include a connecting string  850 , having two ends,  850   a  and (second end not illustrated), and a lever  845 , also having two ends,  845   a ,  845   b  and a center portion  846  of said lever  845 . 
     Features associated with the aforementioned components of the device  810  of  FIG. 8  substantially correspond with, and/or are identical to, features described above with regard to the devices of  FIGS. 1 and 2, 10 and 210 , respectively, and features described above generally in relation to devices of the present invention as a whole, but perhaps not in relation to a specific Figure. 
     Actuating Mechanism(s) 
     Devices of the present invention can also include an actuating mechanism connected to, and in operable communication with the device. More specifically, in such embodiments, devices of the present invention can include a rotating axle, similar to and/or identical with the rotating axle describe above, that is in operable communication with the actuating mechanism such that engagement of the actuating mechanism effects rotational movement of the inner container, similar to as described above. 
     In at least one embodiment, the actuating mechanism can include a wind-up mechanism. More specifically, in devices of the present invention having a wind-up actuating mechanism, a user can wind up the wind-up mechanism, and upon release, the device will engage in rotational movement for as long as the portion that was wound up, per se, takes to unwind. A user can repeatedly wind up the wind-up actuating mechanism to repeat rotational movement of the device. 
     In at least one embodiment, the actuating mechanism can include an electrically powered mechanism. More specifically, in at least one embodiment of the present invention, devices can include a battery compartment and an electric motor operably connected to the rotational axle. In such embodiment, the actuating mechanism can include a power button, configured to activate the electric motor and effect rotational movement of the device, such as rotational movement of the inner container. The battery compartment can be present in a separately sealed compartment of the device, such as toward the bottom of the device. In such cases, the battery compartment can be a water-proof compartment, such that water cannot enter the battery compartment. This can be especially significant as users may utilize cleaning fluid or cleaning agents in conjunction with the device, as described above. 
     In at least one embodiment, devices of the present invention can include a timing mechanism, configured to activate, for example, the electric motor for a predetermined amount of time. In such electrically powered mechanisms, a safety mechanism can also be added to prevent unintended or unwanted use and operation of the device. 
     In any one of the above embodiments of the present invention, an animal enhancer may be embedded within or coated on the base material of any portion of the device, such as the base material of the container and/or handle, etc., to attract the attention of the animal to the device, produce a calming effect to ease any nerves or anxiety that the animal may have during the paw cleaning process, and to prolong the animals interest with the device even after the animal&#39;s paw has been inserted into the device. The animal enhancer may be any substance that generates attraction to the device, or causes the animal to experience a calming effect. 
     In embodiments, the animal enhancer may be made from meat, seafood, or poultry broth concentrate or spray-dried powder, hydrolyzed proteins, yeast and/or yeast extract, liver, ham bone scent, or any combination of such ingredients, among others. The animal enhancer may also be tailored to the breed, specie and/or type of animal for which the device is intended to be used. For example, in the case of felines, the animal enhancer may contain catnip or other similar ingredients which are specifically favored by felines over other species of animal. 
     Moreover, it will be appreciated that in any one of the above embodiments of the present invention, the device can be configured such that the container of the device is substantially leakproof. Although it will be understood that fluid or material may exit through the opening area of the device, once fluid or material is added to the device (through, for example, the opening area), no leakage should occur during use of the device. 
     In cases where it is desired, the device of the present invention can be coated with an additional film or layer to enhance said leakproof feature. 
     Embodiments of the present invention also include methods for cleaning an animal&#39;s paws. Methods for cleaning an animal&#39;s paw can include a step of adding a cleaning solution into the container of devices described herein. An animal&#39;s paw can be inserted into the device, such as through the opening area of the device. In cases where the device includes a trigger mechanism, methods can include engaging or actively depressing the trigger mechanism, repeatedly, to effect rotational movement of the inner container of the device. The animal&#39;s paw can be removed from the device once cleaning is complete. 
     Animals of the present invention include, but are not limited to, pets and farm animals, such as horses, sheep, lamb, and goats. Animals can also include any tamed or domesticated animals found in zoos, public and private exhibits, educational institutions, government facilities, military institutions, and work animals. 
     As used herein, “pet” refers to an animal that is tamed or domesticated and kept for pleasure as a companion. Illustrative examples of suitable pets include pet breeds that have a paw. 
     The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, or material, for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. 
     The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein. 
     It will be appreciated that not all of the features, components and/or activities described above in the general detailed description in relation to embodiments of the present disclosure or the examples are required, that a portion of a specific feature, component and/or activity may not be required, and that one or more further features, components and/or activities may be required, added or performed in addition to those described. Still further, the orders in which activities are listed are not necessarily the order in which they are performed. 
     Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims. 
     After reading the specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that certain features are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination. 
     In the foregoing, reference to specific embodiments and the connections of certain components is illustrative. It will be appreciated that reference to components as being coupled or connected is intended to disclose either direct connection between said components or indirect connection through one or more intervening components as will be appreciated to carry out the methods as discussed herein. As such, the above-disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments, which fall within the true scope of the present invention. 
     Further, references to values stated in ranges include each and every value within that range, and the endpoints of said ranges. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present invention is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.