Patent ID: 12245570

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Further, the present disclosure may use examples to illustrate one or more aspects thereof. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the use or listing of one or more examples (which may be denoted by “for example,” “by way of example,” “e.g.,” “such as,” or similar language) is not intended to and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

The use of “substantially” in the present disclosure, when referring to a measurable quantity (e.g., a diameter or other distance) and used for purposes of comparison, is intended to mean within 5% of the comparative quantity. The terms “substantially similar to,” “substantially the same as,” and “substantially equal to,” as used herein, should be interpreted as if explicitly reciting and encompassing the special case in which the items of comparison are “similar to,” “the same as” and “equal to,” respectively.

A number of variations and modifications of the foregoing disclosure can be used. It would be possible to provide for some features of the disclosure without providing others.

The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various aspects, embodiments, configurations embodiments, subcombinations, and/or subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the disclosed aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations after understanding the present disclosure. The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations, includes providing devices and processes in the absence of items not depicted and/or described herein or in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations hereof, including in the absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance, achieving case and/or reducing cost of implementation.

Turning toFIGS.1A-1G, a pet dental device100(dental device) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, a pet treat (such as a pet treat2800or2900, shown inFIGS.28A,28B,29A,29B) can be inserted into the dental device100and is partially exposed to a pet at specific access points to encourage the pet to chew the dental device100in a way that cleans their teeth. As the pet chews the treat held by the dental device100, the pet's teeth rub or brush against one or more dental cleaning mechanisms (e.g., bristles), thereby cleaning the pet's teeth. Importantly, the treat may be developed in a way such that it encourages this brushing action, while also being sufficiently accessible to maintain a pet's interest. It may also be designed to with sufficient exposure to break apart quickly enough to prevent overbrushing. Once consumed, the treat can be replaced with a new treat for a later brushing session. Thus, the dental device100provides multiple benefits such as reusability, case of use, and enables a pet to self-clean its teeth in an enjoyable manner

InFIG.1A, the dental device100is shown in a perspective view. The dental device100includes a body102extending from a first end104to a second end106along a center axis108. The body102has a center portion110between the first end104and the second end106. A diameter or cross-sectional dimension112(e.g., a diameter, a width, a surface area, a height, etc.) of the center portion110is less than a diameter or cross-sectional dimension114of the first end104and the second end106(shown inFIG.1C). This difference in dimension from end to center provides for different case of treat access and durability along the length of the dental device. For instance, the first end104may have a cross-sectional dimension for improved durability and resilience, as a pet is likely to chew more aggressively on the end. By contrast, the center portion110is often chewed less by pets, and thus may have a narrower diameter with a wider access cutout124(discussed in more detail below) for greater treat exposure. This greater exposure would motivate chewing in the middle of the device, which is important as it encourages a pet to use different teeth and parts of their mouth in the chewing action. For instance, a pet is more likely to use their rear teeth when chewing the ends of the device, and their smaller, front-most teeth when chewing the center portion110of the device. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cross-sectional dimension112of the center portion110can be equal to or greater than the cross-sectional dimension114of the first end104and/or the second end106.

The dental device100includes at least one cavity116extending from the first end104or the second end106towards the center portion110and through the body102. In an embodiment, said cavity116may extend fully through the toy from the first end104to the second end106. Alternatively, features may exist to prevent the cavity116from extending to or beyond the midpoint of the device. The at least one cavity116is configured to receive a pet treat (such as the pet treat2800or2900, shown inFIGS.28A,28B,29A,29B) through an opening118into the first end104and/or the second end106. The dental device100also includes at least one cutout124extending from a first surface120and/or a second surface122of the body102into the cavity116so as to provide access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity116. The dental device100further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms126positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter128of the at least one cutout124. The dental cleaning mechanism126may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof. It will be appreciated that a configuration of bristles, nubs, brushes, or combinations thereof on the different cutouts124may differ. For instance, the center cutout124may have fewer but larger bristles and the outermost cutout may have bristles that are finer (or vice versa). In embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism126comprises bristles or nubs, the bristles or nubs can be formed as a block or molded individually out of another material (e.g., the body102may be formed of a first material and each bristle or nub may be separately molded into the base using a second material different from the first material). Additionally, the dental cleaning mechanism126may be further configured by shape, arrangement, or material to receive additional consumable items, such as a enzymatic toothpaste, in order to further facilitate dental cleaning. During use, the dental cleaning mechanism126rubs against a pet's teeth when the pet chews the dental device100. More specifically, because the pet treat is partially exposed via the cutouts124, the pet is encouraged to chew the dental device100at the cutout such that the pet's teeth engage the cutout124and dental cleaning mechanism126. As the pet chews the dental device100at the cutout, the dental cleaning mechanism126engages or rubs against the pet's teeth, thereby rubbing or removing debris on the pet's teeth. The pet treat is formulated so as to break apart when the pet chews the pet treat, such that the pet is rewarded for chewing and is encouraged to continue chewing the dental device100.

Turning toFIGS.1B-1D, a top view of the dental device100, a bottom view of the dental device100, and a detailed perspective view of the dental device100at the second end106are respectively shown. When viewed from the top or the bottom, the dental device100is in the shape of a bone, though it will be appreciated that the dental device100may be any shape or size. For example, the dental device100may be sized for any sized pet and may include sizes such as, for example, extra small, small, medium, large, or extra large.

As shown, the at least one cutout124extends from a first cutout end130to a second cutout end132along a cutout axis134. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutout axis134is perpendicular to the center axis108of the dental device100. However, it will be appreciated that the cutout axis134may be at any angle relative to the center axis108. Such an angle may provide additional benefit in motivating chewing action of a particular nature, for instance encouraging a pet to chew using one side of their mouth or the other. As illustrated, the cutout124has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout124may have any shape. Further, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism126are bristles, the bristles are parallel to the center axis108. In other instances, the bristles (or any dental cleaning mechanism126) may be at any angle relative to the center axis108or some mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanisms126may be parallel to the center axis108and other mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanism126may be at any angle relative to the center axis108. The dental cleaning mechanism126may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, enzymes or toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism126. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism is a set of bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles. Furthermore, wherein the dental cleaning mechanism126are bristles, said bristles may be uniform or may vary such as in length, shape, thickness, etc.

As also illustrated, the dental device100includes four cutouts124on the first surface120and two cutouts124on the second surface122. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device100at different angles and/or orientations and to engage both their upper teeth and lower teeth either separately or at the same time. In other instances, the dental device100may have any number of cutouts124on the first surface120and/or the second surface122. In some embodiments, the cutout124may exist on both sides of the device100with a hole passing through them. This allows the treat to be chewed from either side, which makes it easier for dogs to crunch the treat apart, and for the resulting pieces to fall out more easily. The cutouts124may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts124closer to center portion110encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts124at the first end104and/or the second end106encourage chewing with back molars.

In some embodiments, the cutouts124may positioned opposite one another (i.e. on the first surface120and the second surface122and opposite each other) which allows dogs to access the treat more easily and also for treats to escape the device100more easily, thereby increasing engagement. Further, in some instances, the cutouts124on one side may provide direct access to the treat, while the cutouts124on the opposite but corresponding side may simply be a groove with a dental cleaning mechanism126. The groove with the dental cleaning mechanism126may be formed such that the groove is not deep enough to reach the treat. The benefit of such embodiments is that it still provides cleaning to the top and bottom teeth of the pet, but additional material is retained on one side to increase the durability of the device.

As shown inFIG.1G, in embodiments where the dental device100includes more than one cutout124, the cutouts124may have different shapes and openings121. For example, inFIG.1G, first cutouts124A have an opening121A that is more shallow than an opening121B of second cutouts124B. The opening121B may have more depth or space so as to accommodate looseness of a treat disposed in the cavity116. Further the cutouts124may have different number of rows of bristles126. For example, the first cutouts124A may have more than one row of bristles126and the second cutouts124B may have one row of bristles126.

In some embodiments, the dental device100may include a flange or a ledge554(Shown inFIGS.5A and5B) extending from the cutout124so as to cover a base of the dental cleaning mechanism126. The ledge554may protect a base of the dental cleaning mechanism126, which may be more susceptible to breakage as opposed to the ends of the dental cleaning mechanism126. Thus, the ledge554may also encourage the pet to chew the dental cleaning mechanism126towards a center of the cutout124or a mid portion of the dental cleaning mechanism126.

Turning toFIGS.1E-1G, a side view of the dental device100, a front view of the dental device100, and a cross-sectional front view of the dental device100taken along line A-A shown inFIG.1Dare respectively shown. As shown, in particular inFIG.1G, the cavity116extends from a first cavity end136at the first end104and/or the second end106along a cavity axis148to a second cavity end138near the center portion110. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity axis148is at an angle relative to the center axis108, though it will be appreciated that the cavity axis148can be at any angle or parallel to the center axis108. Such an angle may provide additional benefit by making the center-most portion of the treat more accessible to a pet, thereby encouraging chewing in that part of the dental device. The angle also keeps sufficient material at the first end104and/or the second end106for durability of the dental device100. As previously described, the cavity116opens to the first end104and/or the second end106through a cavity opening118. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening118and into the cavity116. As shown inFIG.1E, the cavity opening118may have a first cross-section142having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening118may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900(shown inFIGS.28A,28B,29A,29B) may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening118such that the pet treat140can be inserted into the cavity116via the cavity opening118. The cavity opening118may, in some instances, act as a key for the pet treat2800,2900. In other words, the cavity opening118may be shaped so as to only allow a pet treat2800,2900with the same cross-section to be inserted into the cavity116so it may be better held in place or retained. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized to be substantially the same as or similar to the cavity opening118so that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening118. In other words, the second cross-section2808,2908may be sized substantially equal to or less than the first cross-section142.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity116, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by a retaining ledge146that extends at least partially around the perimeter of the cavity opening118. In some instances, the retaining ledge146can extend around an entirety of the perimeter. The retaining ledge146may be semi-flexible so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity116even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge146. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity116such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, portions of the treat have been chewed can exit the device via at least one cutout124, while the still intact portions of the pet treat2800,2900can slide into at least one cutout124to be chewed next. In other words, broken portions of the pet treat2800,2900are enabled to exit the dental device100(via the cutouts124) rather than get stuck within the dental device100. Importantly, if this were not possible and the pet treat2800,2900were to get stuck in a device, a pet may lose interest in the device and no longer wish to chew it, thereby limiting the dental cleaning effectiveness of the device. By enabling the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device100more easily when broken, the pet is rewarded and encouraged to continue chewing the dental device100to further break and obtain more of the pet treat2800,2900until the pet treat2800,2900is consumed. Similarly, the cavity116has a cavity length150that may be substantially equal to or greater than a treat length152of the pet treat2800,2900. In instances where the cavity length150is greater than the treat length152, the pet treat2800,2900may slide or move within the cavity116to enable the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device100.

As shown and previously described, the cavity axis148and thus, the cavity116, may be at an angle relative to the center axis108. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity axis148is angled towards the first surface120from the first end104and/or the second end106to the center portion110. The cavity116may be angled so as to position a portion of the pet treat2800,2900closer to the first surface120near the center portion110of the dental device100and near the corresponding cutouts124. This may be beneficial as the dental device100may be more difficult for a pet to chew near the center portion110and thus, by positioning the treat2800,2900in a more accessible position at the center portion110, the pet is encouraged to chew the cutouts124near the center portion110of the dental device100in addition to the cutouts124at the first end104and/or the second end106of the dental device100.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity116includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity116A of the pair of cavities extends from the first end104to the center portion110and a second cavity116B of the pair of cavities extends from the second end106to the center portion110. The first cavity116A and the second cavity116B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity116A and the second cavity116B do not contact or reach a center point156of the center portion110. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device100may include any number of cavities.

Though not shown, it will be appreciated that the cavity116can include an inner retainer within the cavity116so as to retain a first portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a first cavity portion and second portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a second cavity portion. In other words, the first portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a first set of cutouts124and the second portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a second set of cutouts124. By retaining different portions of the pet treat2800,2900in different portions of the cavity116, the pet may be encouraged to chew each cutout124as opposed to chewing one cutout124.

The pet treat2800,2900may come in any flavor, shape, and/or size. The pet treat2800,2900may be formulated so as to break into pieces when chewed by a pet. The pet treat2800,2900may include grooves to receive cleaning products such as toothpaste or enzymes.

Turning toFIGS.2A-2G, another embodiment of the dental device200according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device200is the same as or similar to the dental device100except as will be described below.

InFIG.2A, the dental device200is shown in a perspective view. Similar to the dental device100, the dental device200includes a body202extending from a first end204to a second end206along a center axis208. The body202has a center portion210between the first end204and the second end206. A diameter or cross-sectional dimension212(e.g., a diameter, a width, a surface area, a height, etc.) of the center portion210is less than a diameter or cross-sectional dimension214of the first end204and the second end206(shown inFIG.2C). Though it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the diameter or cross-sectional dimension212of the center portion210is greater than the diameter or cross-sectional dimension214of the first end204and/or the second end206.

The dental device200includes at least one cavity216extending from the first end204or the second end206towards the center portion210and through the body202. The at least one cavity216is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening218into the first end204or the second end206. The dental device200also includes at least one cutout224extending from a first surface220and/or a second surface222of the body202into the cavity216. The at least one cutout224provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity216. The dental device200further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms226positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter228of the at least one cutout224. The dental cleaning mechanism226may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

Turning toFIGS.2B-2Ea top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a rear view of the dental device200are respectively shown. When viewed from the top or the bottom, the dental device200is in the shape of a bone with the first end204and the second end206of the bone angled downward as shown inFIG.2B. Thus, the cavity216is visible when viewed from the front, as shown inFIG.2Dand is not visible when viewed from the rear, as shown inFIG.2E. It will be appreciated that the dental device200may be any shape or size. For example, the dental device200may be sized for any sized pet and may include sizes such as, for example, extra small, small, medium, large, or extra large.

As shown, the at least one cutout224extends from a first cutout end230to a second cutout end232along a cutout axis234. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutout axis234is at an angle to the center axis208of the dental device200. However, it will be appreciated that the cutout axis234may be at any angle, including perpendicular, relative to the center axis208. As illustrated, the cutout224has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout224may have any shape. Further, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism226are bristles, the bristles are also at an angle to the center axis208. In other instances, the bristles (or any dental cleaning mechanism226) may be at any angle relative to the center axis208or some mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanisms226may be parallel to the center axis208and other mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanism226may be any angle relative to the center axis208). The dental cleaning mechanism226may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism226. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device200includes four cutouts224on the first surface220and four cutouts224on the second surface222. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device200at different angles and/or orientations and to engage both their upper teeth and lower teeth. In other instances, the dental device200may have any number of cutouts224on the first surface220and/or the second surface222. The cutouts224may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts224closer to center portion210encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts224at the first end204and/or the second end206encourage chewing with back molars.

In some embodiments, the dental device200may include a flange or a ledge554(shown inFIGS.5A and5B) extending from the cutout224so as to cover a base of the dental cleaning mechanism226. The ledge554may protect a base of the dental cleaning mechanism226, which may be more susceptible to breakage as opposed to the ends of the dental cleaning mechanism226. Thus, the ledge554may also encourage the pet to chew the dental cleaning mechanism226towards a center of the cutout224or a mid portion of the dental cleaning mechanism226.

Turning toFIGS.2F and2G, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B shown inFIG.2Fare respectively shown. As shown, in particular inFIG.2G, the cavity216extends from a first cavity end236at the first end204and/or the second end206along a cavity axis248to a second cavity end238near the center portion210. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity axis248is parallel to the center axis208, though it will be appreciated that the cavity axis248can be at any angle relative to the center axis208. As previously described, the cavity216opens to the first end204and/or the second end206through a cavity opening218. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening218and into the cavity216. As shown inFIG.1E, the cavity opening218may have a first cross-section242having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening218may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening218such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity216via the cavity opening218. The cavity opening218may, in some instances, act as a key for the pet treat2800,2900. In other words, the cavity opening218may be shaped so as to only allow a pet treat2800,2900with the same cross-section to be inserted into the cavity216. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized to be substantially the same as or similar to the cavity opening218so that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening218. In other words, the second cross-section2808,2908may be sized substantially equal to or less than the first cross-section242.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity216, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by a retaining ledge246that extends at least partially around the perimeter of the cavity opening218. In some instances, the retaining ledge246can extend around an entirety of the perimeter. The retaining ledge246may be semi-flexible so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity216even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge246. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity216such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out224. In other words, broken portions of the pet treat2800,2900is enabled to exit the dental device200(via the cutouts224) rather than get stuck within the dental device200. If the pet treat2800,2900were to get stuck in a device, a pet may lose interest in the device and no longer wish to chew it. Thus, by enabling the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device200more easily when broken, the pet is rewarded and encouraged to continue chewing the dental device200to further break and obtain more of the pet treat2800,2900until the pet treat2800,2900is consumed. Similarly, the cavity216has a cavity length250that may be substantially equal to or greater than a treat length252of the pet treat2800,2900. In instances where the cavity length250is greater than the treat length252, the pet treat2800,2900may slide or move within the cavity216to enable the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device200.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity216includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity216A of the pair of cavities extends from the first end204to the center portion210and a second cavity216B of the pair of cavities extending from the second end206to the center portion210. The first cavity216A and the second cavity216B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity216A and the second cavity216B do not contact or reach a center point256of the center portion210. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device200may include any number of cavities.

Though not shown, it will be appreciated that the cavity216can include an inner retainer within the cavity216so as to retain a first portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a first cavity portion and second portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a second cavity portion. In other words, the first portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a first set of cutouts224and the second portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a second set of cutouts224. By retaining different portions of the pet treat2800,2900in different portions of the cavity216, the pet may be encouraged to chew each cutout224as opposed to chewing one cutout224.

Turning toFIGS.3A-3E, another embodiment of the dental device300according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device300is the same as or similar to the dental devices100,200except as will be described below.

InFIG.3A, the dental device300is shown in a perspective view. The dental device300includes a body302extending from a first end304to a second end306along a center axis308. The body302has a center portion310between the first end304and the second end306. A diameter or cross-sectional dimension312(e.g., a diameter, a width, a surface area, a height, etc.) of the center portion310is less than a diameter or cross-sectional dimension314of the first end304and the second end306(shown inFIG.3B). Though it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the diameter or cross-sectional dimension312of the center portion310is greater than the diameter or cross-sectional dimension314of the first end304and/or the second end306.

The dental device300includes at least one cavity316extending from the first end304or the second end306towards the center portion310and through the body302. The at least one cavity316is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening318into the first end304or the second end306. The dental device300also includes at least one cutout324extending from a first surface320and/or a second surface322of the body302into the cavity316. The at least one cutout324provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity316. The dental device300further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms326positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter328of the at least one cutout324. The dental cleaning mechanism326may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

Turning toFIGS.3B-3Ca top view and a front view of the dental device300are respectively shown. When viewed from the top or the bottom, the dental device300is in the shape of a bone. It will be appreciated that the dental device300may be any shape or size. For example, the dental device300may be sized for any sized pet and may include sizes such as, for example, extra small, small, medium, large, or extra large.

As shown, the at least one cutout324extends from a first cutout end330to a second cutout end332along a cutout axis334. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutout axis334is perpendicular to the center axis308of the dental device300. However, it will be appreciated that the cutout axis334may be at any angle relative to the center axis308. As illustrated, the cutout324has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout324may have any shape. Further, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism326are bristles, the bristles are parallel to the center axis308. In other instances, the bristles (or any dental cleaning mechanism326) may be at any angle relative to the center axis308or some mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanisms326may be parallel to the center axis308and other mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanism326may be any angle relative to the center axis308). The dental cleaning mechanism326may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism326. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device300includes four cutouts324on the first surface320and four cutouts324on the second surface322. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device300at different angles and/or orientations and to engage both their upper teeth and lower teeth. In other instances, the dental device300may have any number of cutouts324on the first surface320and/or the second surface322. The cutouts324may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts324closer to center portion310encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts324at the first end304and/or the second end306encourage chewing with back molars.

In some embodiments, the dental device300may include a flange or a ledge554(shown inFIGS.5A and5B) extending from the cutout324so as to cover a base of the dental cleaning mechanism326. The ledge554may protect a base of the dental cleaning mechanism326, which may be more susceptible to breakage as opposed to the ends of the dental cleaning mechanism326. Thus, the ledge554may also encourage the pet to chew the dental cleaning mechanism326towards a center of the cutout324or a mid portion of the dental cleaning mechanism326.

Turning toFIGS.3D and3E, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C shown inFIG.3Fare respectively shown. As shown, in particular inFIG.3E, the cavity316extends from a first cavity end336at the first end304and/or the second end306along a cavity axis348to a second cavity end338near the center portion310. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity axis348is parallel to the center axis308, though it will be appreciated that the cavity axis348can be at any angle relative to the center axis308. As previously described, the cavity316opens to the first end304and/or the second end306through a cavity opening318. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening318and into the cavity316. As shown inFIG.1E, the cavity opening318may have a first cross-section342having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening318may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening318such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity316via the cavity opening318. The cavity opening318may, in some instances, act as a key for the pet treat2800,2900. In other words, the cavity opening318may be shaped so as to only allow a pet treat2800,2900with the same cross-section to be inserted into the cavity316. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized to be substantially the same as or similar to the cavity opening318so that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening318. In other words, the second cross-section2808,2908may be sized substantially equal to or less than the first cross-section342.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity316, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by a retaining ledge346that extends at least partially around the perimeter328of the cavity opening318. In some instances, the retaining ledge346can extend around an entirety of the perimeter. The retaining ledge346may be semi-flexible so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity316even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge346. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity316such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out324. In other words, broken portions of the pet treat2800,2900is enabled to exit the dental device300(via the cutouts324) rather than get stuck within the dental device300. If the pet treat2800,2900were to get stuck in a device, a pet may lose interest in the device and no longer wish to chew it. Thus, by enabling the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device300more easily when broken, the pet is rewarded and encouraged to continue chewing the dental device300to further break and obtain more of the pet treat2800,2900until the pet treat2800,2900is consumed. Similarly, the cavity316has a cavity length350that may be substantially equal to or greater than a treat length352of the pet treat2800,2900. In instances where the cavity length350is greater than the treat length352, the pet treat2800,2900may slide or move within the cavity316to enable the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device300.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity316includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity316A of the pair of cavities extends from the first end304to the center portion310and a second cavity316B of the pair of cavities extending from the second end306to the center portion310. The first cavity316A and the second cavity316B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity316A and the second cavity316B do not contact or reach a center point356of the center portion310. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device300may include any number of cavities.

Though not shown, it will be appreciated that the cavity316can include an inner retainer within the cavity316so as to retain a first portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a first cavity portion and second portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a second cavity portion. In other words, the first portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a first set of cutouts324and the second portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a second set of cutouts324. By retaining different portions of the pet treat2800,2900in different portions of the cavity316, the pet may be encouraged to chew each cutout324as opposed to chewing one cutout324.

Turning toFIGS.4A-4G, another embodiment of the dental device400according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device400is the same as or similar to the dental devices100,200,300except as will be described below.

InFIG.4A, the dental device400is shown in a perspective view. The dental device400includes a body402extending from a first end404to a second end406along a center axis408. The body402has a center portion410between the first end404and the second end406. A diameter or cross-sectional portion412(e.g., a diameter, a width, a surface area, a height, etc.) of the center portion410is less than a diameter or cross-sectional portion414of the first end404and the second end406(shown inFIG.4C). Though it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the diameter or cross-sectional portion412of the center portion410is greater than the diameter or cross-sectional portion414of the first end404and/or the second end406.

The dental device400includes at least one cavity416extending from the first end404or the second end406towards the center portion410and through the body402. The at least one cavity416is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening418into the first end404or the second end406. The dental device400also includes at least one cutout424extending from a first surface420and/or a second surface422of the body402into the cavity416. The at least one cutout424provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity416. The dental device400further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms426positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter428of the at least one cutout424. The dental cleaning mechanism426may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

Turning toFIGS.4B-4Ea top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a rear view of the dental device400are respectively shown. When viewed from the top or the bottom, the dental device400is in the shape of a bone with the first end404and the second end406of the bone angled downward as shown inFIG.4B. Thus, the cavity416is visible when viewed from the front, as shown inFIG.4Dand is not visible when viewed from the rear, as shown inFIG.4E. It will be appreciated that the dental device400may be any shape or size. For example, the dental device400may be sized for any sized pet and may include sizes such as, for example, extra small, small, medium, large, or extra large.

As shown, the at least one cutout424extends from a first cutout end430to a second cutout end432along a cutout axis434. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutout axis434is at an angle to the center axis408of the dental device400. However, it will be appreciated that the cutout axis434may be at any angle, including perpendicular, relative to the center axis408. As illustrated, the cutout424has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout424may have any shape. Further, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism426are bristles, the bristles are also at an angle to the center axis408. In other instances, the bristles (or any dental cleaning mechanism426) may be at any angle relative to the center axis408or some mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanisms426may be parallel to the center axis408and other mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanism426may be any angle relative to the center axis408). The dental cleaning mechanism426may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism426. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device400includes four cutouts424on the first surface420. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device400at different angles and/or orientations. In other instances, the dental device400may have any number of cutouts424on the first surface420and/or the second surface422. The cutouts424may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts424closer to center portion410encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts424at the first end404and/or the second end406encourage chewing with back molars.

In some embodiments, the dental device400may include a flange or a ledge554(shown inFIGS.5A and5B) extending from the cutout424so as to cover a base of the dental cleaning mechanism426. The ledge554may protect a base of the dental cleaning mechanism426, which may be more susceptible to breakage as opposed to the ends of the dental cleaning mechanism426. Thus, the ledge554may also encourage the pet to chew the dental cleaning mechanism426towards a center of the cutout424or a mid portion of the dental cleaning mechanism426.

Turning toFIGS.4F and4G, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D shown inFIG.4Fare respectively shown. As shown, in particular inFIG.4G, the cavity416extends from a first cavity end436at the first end404and/or the second end406along a cavity axis448to a second cavity end438near the center portion410. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity axis448is parallel to the center axis408, though it will be appreciated that the cavity axis448can be at any angle relative to the center axis408. As previously described, the cavity416opens to the first end404and/or the second end406through a cavity opening418. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening418and into the cavity416. As shown inFIG.1E, the cavity opening418may have a first cross-section442having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening418may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening418such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity416via the cavity opening418. The cavity opening418may, in some instances, act as a key for the pet treat2800,2900. In other words, the cavity opening418may be shaped so as to only allow a pet treat2800,2900with the same cross-section to be inserted into the cavity416. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized to be substantially the same as or similar to the cavity opening418so that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening418. In other words, the second cross-section2808,2908may be sized substantially equal to or less than the first cross-section442.

As previously described, once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity416, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by a retaining ledge446that extends at least partially around the perimeter of the cavity opening418. In some instances, the retaining ledge446can extend around an entirety of the perimeter. The retaining ledge446may be semi-flexible so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity416even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge446. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity416such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out424. In other words, broken portions of the pet treat2800,2900is enabled to exit the dental device400(via the cutouts424) rather than get stuck within the dental device400. If the pet treat2800,2900were to get stuck in a device, a pet may lose interest in the device and no longer wish to chew it. Thus, by enabling the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device400more easily when broken, the pet is rewarded and encouraged to continue chewing the dental device400to further break and obtain more of the pet treat2800,2900until the pet treat2800,2900is consumed. Similarly, the cavity416has a cavity length450that may be substantially equal to or greater than a treat length452of the pet treat2800,2900. In instances where the cavity length450is greater than the treat length452, the pet treat2800,2900may slide or move within the cavity416to enable the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device400.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity416includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity416A of the pair of cavities extends from the first end404to the center portion410and a second cavity416B of the pair of cavities extending from the second end406to the center portion410. The first cavity416A and the second cavity416B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity416A and the second cavity416B do not contact or reach a center point456of the center portion410. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device400may include any number of cavities.

Though not shown, it will be appreciated that the cavity416can include an inner retainer within the cavity416so as to retain a first portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a first cavity portion and second portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a second cavity portion. In other words, the first portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a first set of cutouts424and the second portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a second set of cutouts424. By retaining different portions of the pet treat2800,2900in different portions of the cavity416, the pet may be encouraged to chew each cutout424as opposed to chewing one cutout424.

Turning toFIGS.5A-5G, another embodiment of the dental device500according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device500is the same as or similar to the dental device100,200,300,400except as will be described below.

InFIG.5A, the dental device500is shown in a perspective view. The dental device500includes a body502extending from a first end504to a second end506along a center axis508. The body502has a center portion510between the first end504and the second end506. A diameter or cross-sectional dimension512(e.g., a diameter, a width, a surface area, a height, etc.) of the center portion510is less than a diameter or cross-sectional dimension514of the first end504and the second end506(shown inFIG.5C). Though it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the diameter or cross-sectional dimension512of the center portion510is greater than the diameter or cross-sectional dimension514of the first end504and/or the second end506.

The dental device500includes at least one cavity516extending from the first end504or the second end506towards the center portion510and through the body502. The at least one cavity516is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening518into the first end504or the second end506. The dental device500also includes at least one cutout524extending from a first surface520and/or a second surface522of the body502into the cavity516. The at least one cutout524provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity516. The dental device500further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms526positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter528of the at least one cutout524. The dental cleaning mechanism526may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

Turning toFIGS.5B-5Ea top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a rear view of the dental device500are respectively shown. When viewed from the top or the bottom, the dental device500is in the shape of a bone with the first end504and the second end506of the bone angled downward as shown inFIG.5B. Thus, the cavity516is visible when viewed from the front, as shown inFIG.5Dand is not visible when viewed from the rear, as shown inFIG.5E. It will be appreciated that the dental device500may be any shape or size. For example, the dental device500may be sized for any sized pet and may include sizes such as, for example, extra small, small, medium, large, or extra large.

As shown, the at least one cutout524extends from a first cutout end530to a second cutout end532along a cutout axis534. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutout axis534is at an angle to the center axis508of the dental device500. However, it will be appreciated that the cutout axis534may be at any angle, including perpendicular, relative to the center axis508. As illustrated, the cutout524has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout524may have any shape. Further, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism526are bristles, the bristles are also at an angle to the center axis508. In other instances, the bristles (or any dental cleaning mechanism526) may be at any angle relative to the center axis508or some mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanisms526may be parallel to the center axis508and other mechanisms of the dental cleaning mechanism526may be any angle relative to the center axis508). The dental cleaning mechanism526may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism526. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device500includes four cutouts524on the first surface520. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device500at different angles and/or orientations. In other instances, the dental device500may have any number of cutouts524on the first surface520and/or the second surface522. The cutouts524may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts524closer to center portion510encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts524at the first end504and/or the second end506encourage chewing with back molars.

In some embodiments, the dental device500may include a flange or a ledge554extending from the cutout524so as to cover a base of the dental cleaning mechanism526. The ledge554may protect a base of the dental cleaning mechanism526, which may be more susceptible to breakage as opposed to the ends of the dental cleaning mechanism526. Thus, the ledge554may also encourage the pet to chew the dental cleaning mechanism526towards a center of the cutout524or a mid portion of the dental cleaning mechanism526.

Turning toFIGS.5F and5G, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E shown inFIG.5Fare respectively shown. As shown, in particular inFIG.5G, the cavity516extends from a first cavity end536at the first end504and/or the second end506along a cavity axis548to a second cavity end538near the center portion510. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity axis548is parallel to the center axis508, though it will be appreciated that the cavity axis548can be at any angle relative to the center axis508. As previously described, the cavity516opens to the first end504and/or the second end506through a cavity opening518. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening518and into the cavity516. As shown inFIG.1E, the cavity opening518may have a first cross-section542having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening518may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening518such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity516via the cavity opening518. The cavity opening518may, in some instances, act as a key for the pet treat2800,2900. In other words, the cavity opening518may be shaped so as to only allow a pet treat2800,2900with the same cross-section to be inserted into the cavity516. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized to be substantially the same as or similar to the cavity opening518so that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening518. In other words, the second cross-section2808,2908may be sized substantially equal to or less than the first cross-section542.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity516, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by a retaining ledge546that extends at least partially around the perimeter of the cavity opening518. In some instances, the retaining ledge546can extend around an entirety of the perimeter. The retaining ledge546may be semi-flexible so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity516even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge546. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity516such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out524. In other words, broken portions of the pet treat2800,2900is enabled to exit the dental device500(via the cutouts524) rather than get stuck within the dental device500. If the pet treat2800,2900were to get stuck in a device, a pet may lose interest in the device and no longer wish to chew it. Thus, by enabling the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device500more easily when broken, the pet is rewarded and encouraged to continue chewing the dental device500to further break and obtain more of the pet treat2800,2900until the pet treat2800,2900is consumed. Similarly, the cavity516has a cavity length550that may be substantially equal to or greater than a treat length552of the pet treat2800,2900. In instances where the cavity length550is greater than the treat length552, the pet treat2800,2900may slide or move within the cavity516to enable the pet treat2800,2900to exit the dental device524.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity516includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity516A of the pair of cavities extends from the first end504to the center portion510and a second cavity516B of the pair of cavities extending from the second end506to the center portion510. The first cavity516A and the second cavity516B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity516A and the second cavity516B do not contact or reach a center point556of the center portion510. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device500may include any number of cavities.

Though not shown, it will be appreciated that the cavity516can include an inner retainer within the cavity516so as to retain a first portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a first cavity portion and second portion of the pet treat2800,2900in a second cavity portion. In other words, the first portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a first set of cutouts524and the second portion of the pet treat2800,2900may be accessible by a second set of cutouts524. By retaining different portions of the pet treat2800,2900in different portions of the cavity516, the pet may be encouraged to chew each cutout524as opposed to chewing one cutout524.

FIGS.6-13further illustrate that a dental device may come in any shape, size, and/or combination of features. For example, inFIG.6, a dental device600according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The device600has a center portion610that is wider than a first end604and/or a second end606. The device600also includes cavities616and one or more cutouts624with corresponding dental cleaning mechanism626. InFIG.7, a dental device700according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The device700includes a cavity716that extends from a first end704to a second end706of the device700. The device700also includes one or more cutout724with corresponding dental cleaning mechanism726extending into the cavity716.

InFIG.8, a dental device800according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The device800includes one or more cutouts824and a corresponding dental cleaning mechanism826that extend around an entire perimeter of the device800such that the dental cleaning mechanism826will contact the pet's teeth within the cutouts824from any direction. The device800also includes a cradle802and one or more cavities816by which to hold the treat.

InFIG.9, a dental device900according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Device900is generally U-shaped and includes a cavity916, a cutout924, and a corresponding dental cleaning mechanism826at each of the first end904and the second end906.

InFIG.10, a dental device1000according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The device1000includes a base1002and an extension1004extending from the base1002. The base1002is capable of wobbling, rolling, or otherwise self-correcting so as to position the extension1004above the base1002. The extension1004includes a cavity1016and one or more cutouts1024and corresponding dental cleaning mechanisms1026.

InFIGS.11A-11D, a dental device1100according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a perspective view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively. The device1100includes a base1102and an extension1104extending from the base1102. The base1102is configured to keep the device1100stationary and provides points of contact for the pet's paws such that the pet can hold the device1100steady by standing or pressing the base1102against the ground. As shown inFIG.11B, the dental device1100may include two cutouts1124. Further, the cavity1116may extend and open into one opening1124and not the other opening1124. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the extension1104may include one or more cavities1116, one or more cutouts1124, and corresponding dental cleaning mechanisms1126and the one or more cavities1116may extend into any number of cutouts1124.

As shown inFIG.11C, the dental device1100includes an opening1118that extends into the cavity1116and that enables insertion of a treat2800,2900into the cavity1116. As previously described, the treat2800,2900may be shaped or formed into the same cross-section as a cross-section1142of the opening1118. As also shown inFIG.11CandFIG.11D, the base1102is rectangular shaped with rounded corners. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the base1102may be any shape such as, for example, square, circular, oval, triangular, or the like.

InFIG.12, a dental device1200according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The device1200includes one or more segments1202. In the illustrated embodiment the device1200includes three segments1202, though it will be appreciated that the device1200can include one segment, two segments, or more than two segments. Each segment1202includes one or more cavities1216, one or more cutouts1224, and corresponding dental cleaning mechanisms1226.

InFIGS.13A-13B, a dental device1300according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The device1300includes a body having one or more cavities1316and one or more cutouts1224. As shown, the device1300has a triangular cross-section having three sides. In other embodiments, the device1300may have any cross-section such as, for example, circular, square, rectangular, oval, etc.

Turning toFIGS.14A-14E, another embodiment of the dental device1400according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device1400is the same as or similar to the dental devices100,200except as will be described below.

InFIG.14A, the dental device1400is shown in a perspective view. The dental device1400includes a body1402extending from a first end1404to a second end1406. The body1402has a first portion1401and a second portion1403extending from a center portion1410between the first end1404and the second end1406, respectively. The first portion1401and the second portion1403each extend at an angle relative to each other from the center portion1410(as also visible inFIGS.14D-14E). The angle between the first portion1401and the second portion1403may be, for example, 90 degrees or perpendicular to each other. In other embodiments, the angle between the first portion1401and the second portion1403may be any angle greater than or less than 90 degrees.

Turning toFIGS.14B-14Ca top view and a front view of the dental device1400are respectively shown. When viewed from the top or the bottom, the dental device1400is generally wider near the first end1404or the second end1406relative to the center portion1410. It will be appreciated that the dental device1400may be any shape or size. For example, the dental device1400may be sized for any sized pet and may include sizes such as, for example, extra small, small, medium, large, or extra large.

As illustrated, the cutout1424has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout1424may have any shape. The dental cleaning mechanism1426may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism1426. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device1400includes four cutouts1424total, with two cutouts1424on the first portion1401and two cutouts1424on the second portion1403. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device1400at different angles and/or orientations. In other instances, the dental device1400may have any number of cutouts1424on the first portion1401and/or the second portion1403. The cutouts1424may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts1424closer to center portion1410encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts1424at the first end1404and/or the second end1406encourage chewing with back molars.

Turning toFIGS.14D and14E, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line F-F shown inFIG.14Care respectively shown. The dental device1400includes at least one cavity1416extending from the first end1404or the second end1406towards the center portion1410and through the body1402. The at least one cavity1416is configured to receive a pet treat2800,2900through an opening1418into the first end1404or the second end1406. The at least one cutout1424provides access to at least a portion of the pet treat2800,2900disposed in the corresponding cavity1416. The dental device1400further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms1426positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter of the at least one cutout1424. The dental cleaning mechanism1426may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

As shown, in particular inFIG.14E, the cavity1416may extend to a first cutout1424A and not the second cutout1424B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cavity1416may extend to any number of cutouts1424. As previously described, the cavity1416opens to the first end1404and/or the second end1406through a cavity opening1418. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening1418and into the cavity1416. As previously described and as shown inFIG.14C, the cavity opening1418may have a first cross-section1442having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening1418may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening1418such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity1416via the cavity opening1418.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity1416, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by an inner retainer1446that extends at an angle into the cavity1416and near the cavity opening1418. The inner retainer1446is shaped like a flap, but in other embodiments, the inner retainer1446may be any shape. The inner retainer1446may be semi-flexible and angled so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity1416even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge1446. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity1416such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out1424

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity1416includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity1416A of the pair of cavities extends to the first cutout1424A and a second cavity1416B of the pair of cavities extends to another of the first cutout1424A. The first cavity1416A and the second cavity1416B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity1416A and the second cavity1416B do not contact or reach a center point1456of the center portion1410. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device1400may include any number of cavities.

FIG.14Fis a view of the pet dental device1400at rest according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, when the pet dental device1400is at rest, an axis1401of the at least one cutout1424is perpendicular to a surface of a floor defined by the Z-axis and the X-axis of a 3-axis1403, as shown. In other instances, the at least one cutout1424may face the surface of the floor (and the axis1401may be parallel to the surface of the floor). In other words, when the pet dental device1400is at rest, the at least one cutout1424faces outward or downward and does not face upward. Such configuration encourages a pet to interact with the toy and to move the toy such that the at least one cutout1424faces upward and exposes the treat upward. This interaction is beneficial to the pet and provides mental stimulation and enrichment, which encourages the pet to play or interact with the toy for longer durations.

Turning toFIGS.15A-15D, another embodiment of the dental device1500according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device1500is the same as or similar to the dental devices100,200except as will be described below.

InFIG.15A, the dental device1500is shown in a perspective view and inFIG.15B, the dental device1500is shown in a front view. The dental device1500includes a body1502extending from a first end1504to a second end1506along a center axis1508. The dental device1500includes an extension1501which extends from the body1502at a center portion1510of the dental device1500. The extension1501may extend perpendicularly relative to the center axis1508and partially around the body1502. In other words, the extension1501may extend partially around a perimeter of the body1502. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the extension1501may extend around the entire perimeter of the body1502(as shown inFIGS.16A-16D). In the illustrated embodiment, the extension1501has a round or oval shape when viewed from the front, as visible inFIG.15B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the extension1501may have any shape. The extension1501may enable the dental device1500to wobble or otherwise move, which may encourage a pet to play with the dental device1500. The extension1501also provides an additional surface or feature for a pet to play with or chew.

Turning toFIGS.15C and15D, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line G-G shown inFIG.15Bare respectively shown. The dental device1500includes at least one cavity1516extending from the first end1504or the second end1506towards the center portion1510and through the body1502. The at least one cavity1516is configured to receive a pet treat2800,2900through an opening1518into the first end1504or the second end1506. The at least one cutout1524provides access to at least a portion of the pet treat2800,2900disposed in the corresponding cavity1516. The dental device1500further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms1526positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter of the at least one cutout1524. The dental cleaning mechanism1526may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated and previously described, the cutout1524has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout1524may have any shape. The dental cleaning mechanism1526may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism1526. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device1500includes four cutouts1524total, with two cutouts1524between the center portion1510and the first end1504and two cutouts1524between the center portion1510and the second end1506. In other instances, the dental device1500may have any number of cutouts1524. The cutouts1524may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible.

As shown, in particular inFIG.15D, the cavity1516may extend to a first cutout1524A and not the second cutout1524B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cavity1516may extend to any number of cutouts1524. As previously described, the cavity1516opens to the first end1504and/or the second end1506through a cavity opening1518. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening1518and into the cavity1516. As previously described and as shown inFIG.15C, the cavity opening1518may have a first cross-section1542having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening1518may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening1518such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity1516via the cavity opening1518.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity1516includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity1516A of the pair of cavities extends to the first cutout1524A and a second cavity1516B of the pair of cavities extends to another of the first cutout1524A. The first cavity1516A and the second cavity1516B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity1516A and the second cavity1516B do not contact or reach a center point1556of the center portion1510. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device1500may include any number of cavities.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity1516, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by an inner retainer1546that extends at an angle into the cavity1516and near the cavity opening1518. The inner retainer1546is shaped like a flap, but in other embodiments, the inner retainer1546may be any shape. The inner retainer1546may be semi-flexible and angled so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity1516even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge1546. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity1516such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out1524.

Turning toFIGS.16A-16D, another embodiment of the dental device1600according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device1600is the same as or similar to the dental device1500except as will be described below.

InFIG.16A, the dental device1600is shown in a perspective view and inFIG.16B, the dental device1600is shown in a front view. The dental device1600includes a body1602extending from a first end1604to a second end1606along a center axis1608. The dental device1600includes an extension1601which extends from the body1602at a center portion1610of the dental device1600. The extension1601may extend perpendicularly relative to the center axis1608and around the entire body1602. In other words, the extension1601may extend entirely around a perimeter of the body1602. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the extension1601may extend around a portion of the perimeter of the body1602(as shown inFIGS.15A-15D). In the illustrated embodiment, the extension1601has a round or oval shape when viewed from the front, as visible inFIG.16B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the extension1601may have any shape. The extension1601may enable the dental device1600to wobble, which may encourage a pet to play with the dental device1600. The extension1601also provide an additional surface or feature for a pet to play with or chew.

As also illustrated, the dental device1600includes four cutouts1624total. In other instances, the dental device1600may have any number of cutouts1624. The cutouts1624may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts1624closer to center portion1610encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts1624at the first end1604and/or the second end1606encourage chewing with back molars.

Turning toFIGS.16C and16D, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line H-H shown inFIG.16Bare respectively shown. The dental device1600includes at least one cavity1616extending from the first end1604or the second end1606towards the center portion1610and through the body1602. The at least one cavity1616is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening1618into the first end1604or the second end1606. The at least one cutout1624provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity1616. The dental device1600further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms1626positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter of the at least one cutout1624. The dental cleaning mechanism1626may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated, the cutout1624has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout1624may have any shape. The dental cleaning mechanism1626may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism1626. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As shown, in particular inFIG.16D, the cavity1616may extend to a first cutout1624A and not the second cutout1624B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cavity1616may extend to any number of cutouts1624. As previously described, the cavity1616opens to the first end1604and/or the second end1606through a cavity opening1618. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening1618and into the cavity1616. As previously described and as shown inFIG.16C, the cavity opening1618may have a first cross-section1642having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening1618may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening1618such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity1616via the cavity opening1618.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity1616includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity1616A of the pair of cavities extends to the first cutout1624A and a second cavity1616B of the pair of cavities extends to another of the first cutout1624A. The first cavity1616A and the second cavity1616B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity1616A and the second cavity1616B do not contact or reach a center point1656of the center portion1610. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device1600may include any number of cavities.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity1616, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by an inner retainer1646that extends at an angle into the cavity1616and near the cavity opening1618. The inner retainer1646is shaped like a flap, but in other embodiments, the inner retainer1646may be any shape. The inner retainer1646may be semi-flexible and angled so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity1616even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge1646. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity1616such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out1624.

Turning toFIGS.17A-17D, another embodiment of the dental device1700according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device1700is the same as or similar to the dental device100except as will be described below.

InFIG.17A, the dental device1700is shown in a perspective view and inFIG.17B, the dental device1700is shown in a front view. The dental device1700includes a body1702extending from a first end1704to a second end1706. The body1702has a first portion1701and a second portion1703, each extending from a center portion1710to the first end1704and the second end1706, respectively. The first portion1701and the second portion1703extend in planes that are parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other, as visible inFIGS.17C and17D. It will be appreciated that the first portion1701and the second portion1703may extend in planes at an angle to each other and/or adjacent to each other. The dental device1700includes a transition portion1705at the center portion1710and between the first portion1701and the second portion1703. The transition portion1705may be curved as shown, though in other embodiments the transition portion1705may be angle shape. The shape of the dental device1700may encourage a pet to hold and stabilize the dental device1700at the first portion1701such that the second portion1703is raised and closer to the pet's mouth. Thus, the pet can hold the dental device1700at the first portion1701to chew the second portion1703.

Turning toFIGS.17C and17D, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line I-I shown inFIG.17Bare respectively shown. The dental device1700includes at least one cavity1716extending from the second end1706towards the center portion1710and through the body1702. It will be appreciated that the at least one cavity1716can extend from the first end1704or any portion of the dental device1700. The at least one cavity1716is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening1718into the second end1706. The at least one cutout1724provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity1716. The dental device1700further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms1726positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter of the at least one cutout1724. The dental cleaning mechanism1726may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated, the cutout1724has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout1724may have any shape. The dental cleaning mechanism1726may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism1726. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device1700includes two cutouts1724on the second portion1703. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device1700at the second portion1703while holding the dental device1700by the first portion1701. In other instances, the dental device1700may have any number of cutouts1724on the first portion1701and/or the second portion1703. The cutouts1724may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts1724closer to center portion1710encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts1724at the first end1704and/or the second end1706encourage chewing with back molars.

As shown, in particular inFIG.17D, the cavity1716may extend to a first cutout1724A and not the second cutout1724B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cavity1716may extend to any number of cutouts1724. As previously described, the cavity1716opens to the second end1706through a cavity opening1718. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening1718and into the cavity1716. As previously described and as shown inFIG.17C, the cavity opening1718may have a first cross-section1742having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening1718may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening1718such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity1716via the cavity opening1718.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity1716, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by an inner retainer1746that extends at an angle into the cavity1716and near the cavity opening1718. The inner retainer1746is shaped like a flap, but in other embodiments, the inner retainer1746may be any shape. The inner retainer1746may be semi-flexible and angled so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity1716even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the inner retainer1746. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity1716such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out1724.

Turning toFIGS.18A-18D, another embodiment of the dental device1800according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device1800is the same as or similar to the dental device1700except as will be described below.

InFIG.18A, the dental device1800is shown in a perspective view and inFIG.18B, the dental device1800is shown in a front view. The dental device1800includes a body1802extending from a first end1804to a second end1806. The body1802has a first portion1801and a second portion1803, each extending from a center portion1810to the first end1804and the second end1806, respectively. The first portion1801and the second portion1803extend in planes that are parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other, as visible inFIGS.18C and18D. It will be appreciated that the first portion1801and the second portion1803may extend in planes at an angle to each other and/or adjacent to each other. The dental device1800includes a transition portion1805at the center portion1810. The transition portion1805may be curved as shown, though in other embodiments the transition portion1805may be angle shape. The shape of the dental device1800may encourage a pet to hold and stabilize the dental device1800at the first portion1801such that the second portion1803is raised and closer to the pet's mouth. Thus, the pet can hold the dental device1800at the first portion1801to chew the second portion1803.

Turning toFIGS.18C and18D, a side view and a side cross-sectional view taken along the line J-J shown inFIG.18Bare respectively shown. The dental device1800includes at least one cavity1816extending from the first end1804and/or the second end1806towards the center portion1810and through the body1802. The at least one cavity1816is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening1818(not shown) into the first end1804and/or the second end1806. The at least one cutout1824provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity1816. The dental device1800further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms1826positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter of the at least one cutout1824. The dental cleaning mechanism1826may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated, the cutout1824has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout1824may have any shape. The dental cleaning mechanism1826may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism1826. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device1800includes two cutouts1824on the first portion1801and two cutouts1824on the second portion1803. Such configuration may encourage a pet to chew the dental device1800at the second portion1803while holding the dental device1800by the first portion1801or vice versa. In other instances, the dental device1800may have any number of cutouts1824on the first portion1801and/or the second portion1803. The cutouts1824may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts1824closer to center portion1810encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts1824at the first end1804and/or the second end1806encourage chewing with back molars.

As shown, in particular inFIG.18D, the cavity1816may extend to a first cutout1824A and not the second cutout1824B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cavity1816may extend to any number of cutouts1824. As previously described, the cavity1816opens to the first end1804and/or the second end1806through a cavity opening1818. A pet treat2800can be inserted through the cavity opening1818and into the cavity1816. As previously described and as shown inFIG.18C, the cavity opening1818may have a first cross-section1842having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening1818may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening1818such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity1816via the cavity opening1818.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity1816includes a pair of cavities. In such embodiments, a first cavity1816A of the pair of cavities extends to the first cutout1824A and a second cavity1816B of the pair of cavities extends to another of the first cutout1824A. The first cavity1816A and the second cavity1816B do not intersect. Further, the first cavity1816A and the second cavity1816B do not contact or reach a center point1856of the center portion1810. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device1800may include any number of cavities.

Once the pet treat2800,2900is positioned in the cavity1818, the pet treat2800,2900may be retained by an inner retainer1846that extends at an angle into the cavity1818and near the cavity opening1818. The inner retainer1846is shaped like a flap, but in other embodiments, the inner retainer1846may be any shape. The inner retainer1846may be semi-flexible and angled so as to allow the pet treat2800,2900to be inserted into the cavity1818even if the pet treat2800,2900is slightly larger than the retaining ledge1846. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity1818such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out1824.

Turning toFIGS.19A-19C, another embodiment of the dental device1900according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Generally, the dental device1900is the same as or similar to the dental devices100,200,1400, etc. except as will be described below.

InFIG.19A, the dental device1900is shown in a perspective view. The dental device1900includes a body1902having a center portion1910. The body1902has a first portion1901A, a second portion1901B, and a third portion1901C each extending from the center portion1910. The first portion1901A, the second portion1901B, and the third portion1901C extend at an angle relative to each other from the center portion1910(as shown inFIG.19B). The angle between each portion1901A,1901B, and1901C may be, for example, 120 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle between portion1901A,1901B, and1901C may be any angle greater than or less than 120 degrees. Further the angle between each portion1901A,1901B, and1901C may be different from each other. For example, an angle between the first portion1901A and the second portion1901B may be 90 degrees, an angle between the second portion1901B and the third portion1901C may be 100 degrees, and an angle between the third portion1901C and the first portion1901A may be 170 degrees.

The dental device1900includes at least one cavity1916extending from an end of the first portion1901A, the second portion1901B, and/or the third portion1901C towards the center portion1910and through the body1902. The at least one cavity1916is configured to receive a pet treat through an opening1918into the first end1904or the second end1906. The at least one cutout1924provides access to at least a portion of a pet treat disposed in the corresponding cavity1916. The dental device1900further includes at least one set of dental cleaning mechanisms1926positioned on at least a portion of a perimeter of the at least one cutout1924. The dental cleaning mechanism1926may include, for example, bristles, nubs, brushes, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated, the cutout1924has an oblong, oval, or rectangular shape, though it will be appreciated that the cutout1924may have any shape. The dental cleaning mechanism1926may also include a reservoir for distributing cleaning products such as, for example, toothpaste. It will also be appreciated that cleaning products can be directly distributed on the dental cleaning mechanism1926. For example, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism are bristles, toothpaste may be directly applied to the bristles.

As also illustrated, the dental device1900includes two cutouts1924on each portion1901A,1901B, and1901C. In other instances, the dental device1900may have any number of cutouts1924on each portion1901A,1901B, and1901C. The cutouts1924may be positioned and sized so as to encourage a pet to chew with different parts of their mouth, thereby cleaning as many of the pet's teeth as possible. For example, cutouts1924closer to center portion1910encourage chewing with front molars vs cutouts1924at the first end1904and/or the second end1906encourage chewing with back molars.

Turning toFIG.19C, a side cross-sectional view taken along the line K-K shown inFIG.19Ais shown. As shown, the cavity1916may extend to a first cutout1924A and not the second cutout1924B. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cavity1916may extend to any number of cutouts1924. As previously described, the cavity1916opens to the first end1904and/or the second end1906through a cavity opening1918. A pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through the cavity opening1918and into the cavity1916. As previously described and as shown inFIG.19A, the cavity opening1918may have a first cross-section1942having a unique shape such as, for example, the letter “W”. In other embodiments, the cavity opening1918may have any shape such as, for example, a star, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, etc. The pet treat2800,2900may have a second cross-section2808,2908that is the same shape as the cavity opening1918such that the pet treat2800,2900can be inserted into the cavity1916via the cavity opening1918. The pet treat2800,2900may be sized smaller than the cavity1916such that the pet treat2800,2900is loosely held in place so that as a pet is breaking the pet treat2800,2900, the pet treat2800,2900slides out via the at least one cut out1924.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity1916includes three cavities wherein each portion1901A,1901B, and1901C has a cavity1916. In such embodiments, none of the cavities intersect each other and do not contact or reach a center point1956of the center portion1910. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the dental device1900may include any number of cavities.

FIGS.20A-27Ddescribe variations of a cavity that may receive a pet treat2800,2900. It will be appreciated that any dental device described herein may include any variation of a cavity described in theFIGS.20A-27Dor in any portion of the present disclosure.

FIG.20Ais a front view of a pet dental device2000and an inner retainer2046andFIG.20Bis a side cross-sectional view of the pet dental2000device ofFIG.20Ataken along line L-L. As shown, a cavity2016of the pet dental device200extends from a first cavity end2036to a second cavity end2038. The cavity2016opens into a first cutout2024A and a second cutout2024B, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2016may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2016also includes an opening2018through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2016includes an inner retainer2046in the shape of an angled flap that is angled away from the opening2018. The inner retainer2046is positioned near a bottom surface2054of the cavity2016. The inner retainer2046also partially defines a trough2050such that after the treat2800,2900is slid over the inner retainer2046an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2050. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2050, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2016by the trough2050and the inner retainer2046. The trough2050also extends below the opening2018such that the treat2800,2900can also be retained in the through2050without the inner retainer2046, as shown inFIGS.21A-21D.

FIG.21Ais a side cross-sectional view of an end of a pet dental device2100highlighting a cavity2116of the pet dental device;FIG.21Bis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device2100ofFIG.21A;FIG.21Cis a side cross-sectional view of the pet dental device2100ofFIG.21Awith a dental cleaning mechanism2126; andFIG.21Dis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.21C. The dental device2100is generally the same as or similar to the dental device2000, except that the dental device2100does not include an inner retainer. The cavity2116of the pet dental device210extends from a first cavity end2136to a second cavity end2138. The cavity2116opens into a cutout2124, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2116may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2116also includes an opening2118through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2116also includes a trough2150such that after the treat2800,2900is slid or pushed into the cavity2116an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2150. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2150, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2116by the trough2150.

FIG.22Ais a side cross-sectional view of an end of a pet dental device highlighting a cavity of the pet dental device;FIG.22Bis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.22A;FIG.22Cis a side cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.22Awith a dental cleaning mechanism2226; andFIG.22Dis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.22C. The dental device2200is generally the same as or similar to the dental device2000and2100, except that the dental device2200includes an inner retainer2246near an upper surface2256of the cavity2216. More specifically, the cavity2216of the pet dental device220extends from a first cavity end2236to a second cavity end2238. The cavity2216opens into a cutout2224, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2216may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2216also includes an opening2218through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2216also includes the inner retainer2246which may take the form of an angled flat, though the inner retainer2246may be any shape. The cavity2216also includes a trough2250such that after the treat2800,2900is slid or pushed into the cavity2216an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2250. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2250, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2216by the trough2250and/or the inner retainer2246.

FIG.23Ais a side cross-sectional view of an end of a pet dental device highlighting a cavity of the pet dental device;FIG.23Bis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.23A;FIG.23Cis a side cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.23Awith a dental cleaning mechanism2326; andFIG.23Dis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.23C. The dental device2300is generally the same as or similar to the dental device2100and includes a ledge2352. More specifically, the cavity2316of the pet dental device230extends from a first cavity end2336to a second cavity end2338. The cavity2316opens into a cutout2324, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2316may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2316also includes an opening2318through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2316also includes the ledge2352which extends from the opening2318to a trough2350. The ledge2352may help prevent a treat2800,2900from moving out of the cavity2316via the opening2318. More specifically, after the treat2800,2900is slid or pushed into the cavity2316an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2350. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2350, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2316by the trough2350and by the ledge2352.

FIG.24Ais a side cross-sectional view of an end of a pet dental device highlighting a cavity of the pet dental device;FIG.24Bis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.24A;FIG.24Cis a side cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.24Awith a dental cleaning mechanism2426; andFIG.24Dis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.24C. The dental device2400is generally the same as or similar to the dental device2200and2300. More specifically, the cavity2416of the pet dental device240extends from a first cavity end2436to a second cavity end2438. The cavity2416opens into a cutout2424, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2416may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2416also includes an opening2418through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2416also includes the ledge2452which extends from the opening2418to a trough2450. The ledge2452may help prevent a treat2800,2900from moving out of the cavity2416via the opening2418. More specifically, after the treat2800,2900is slid or pushed into the cavity2416an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2450. Additionally, the dental device2400may include an inner retainer2446positioned near an upper surface2456of the cavity2416. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2450, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2416by the trough2450, the ledge2452, and the inner retainer2446.

FIG.25Ais a side cross-sectional view of an end of a pet dental device highlighting a cavity of the pet dental device;FIG.25Bis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.25A;FIG.25Cis a side cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.25Awith a dental cleaning mechanism2526; andFIG.25Dis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.25C. The dental device2400is generally the same as or similar to the dental device2000. As shown, a cavity2516of the pet dental device250extends from a first cavity end2536to a second cavity end2538. The cavity2516opens into a cutout2524, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2516may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2516also includes an opening2518through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2516includes an inner retainer2546in the shape of an angled flap that is angled away from the opening2518. The inner retainer2546is positioned near a bottom surface2554of the cavity2516. The inner retainer2546also partially defines a trough2550such that after the treat2800,2900is slid over the inner retainer2546an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2550. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2550, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2516by the trough2550and the inner retainer2546.

FIG.26Ais a side cross-sectional view of an end of a pet dental device highlighting a cavity of the pet dental device andFIG.26Bis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.26A. The dental device2600is generally the same as or similar to the dental device2500. As shown, a cavity2616of the pet dental device260extends from a first cavity end2636to a second cavity end2638. The cavity2616opens into a cutout2624, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2616may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2616also includes an opening2618through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2616includes an inner retainer2646in the shape of an angled flap that is angled away from the opening2618. The inner retainer2646is positioned near a bottom surface2654of the cavity2616. As illustrated, the inner retainer2646is angled more away from the opening2618relative to an angle of the inner retainer2546relative to the opening2518of the dental device2500. The inner retainer2646also partially defines a trough2650such that after the treat2800,2900is slid over the inner retainer2646an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2650. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2650, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2616by the trough2650and the inner retainer2646.

FIG.27Ais a side cross-sectional view of an end of a pet dental device highlighting a cavity of the pet dental device;FIG.27Bis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.27A;FIG.27Cis a side cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.27Awith a dental cleaning mechanism2726; andFIG.27Dis a top cross-sectional view of the pet dental device ofFIG.27C. The dental device2700is generally the same as or similar to the dental device2500and2600. As shown, a cavity2716of the pet dental device270extends from a first cavity end2736to a second cavity end2738. The cavity2716opens into a cutout2724, though it will be appreciated that the cavity2716may open to any number of cutouts. The cavity2716also includes an opening2718through which a pet treat2800,2900can be inserted through. As shown, the cavity2716includes an inner retainer2746in the shape of an angled flap that is angled away from the opening2718. The inner retainer2746is positioned near a bottom surface2754of the cavity2716. As illustrated, the inner retainer2746is angled more away from the opening2718relative to an angle of the inner retainer2546relative to the opening2518of the dental device2500and also an angle of the inner retainer2646relative to the opening2618of the dental device2600. The inner retainer2746also partially defines a trough2750such that after the treat2800,2900is slid over the inner retainer2746an end of the treat2800,2900may be captured and positioned in the trough2750. Once the treat2800,2900is captured in the trough2750, the treat2800,2900may be secured in the cavity2716by the trough2750and the inner retainer2746.

FIGS.28A-28Billustrate an isometric view and a front view of the pet treat2800. The pet treat2800includes a body2802extending from a first end2804to a second end2806and the second cross-section2808. As shown the second cross-section2808is in the shape of a “W” to match the shape of a cavity opening of any of the dental devices described above. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the second cross-section2808may be any shape to match the cavity opening.FIGS.29A-29Billustrate an isometric view and a front view of the pet treat2900. The pet treat2900is the same as the pet treat2800except that the pet treat2900includes one or more notches2910that encourages breaking of the pet treat2900at the notches2910. The pet treat2900also includes a body2902extending from a first end2904to a second end2906and the second cross-section2908. As shown the second cross-section2908is in the shape of a “W” to match the shape of a cavity opening of any of the dental devices described above. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the second cross-section2908may be any shape to match the cavity opening.

As previously described, the pet treat2800,2900may be developed in a way such that it encourages this brushing action with any dental device described above, while also being sufficiently accessible to maintain a pet's interest. It may also be designed to with sufficient exposure to break apart quickly enough to prevent overbrushing. Once consumed, the treat can be replaced with a new treat for a later brushing session.

It will be appreciated that the dental device100-2700may be made of any material(s) and any combination of materials. For example, the dental device100-2700may be formed of a different material than the body102-2702of the dental device100-2700. In such examples, the dental device100-2700may be formed of a material softer than the material of the body102-1902. In other embodiments, the dental device100-2700and the dental cleaning mechanism126-2726may be formed from the same material. In any embodiment, the dental cleaning mechanism126-2726may be replaceable when the dental cleaning mechanism126-2726is worn or otherwise damaged. In other words, the dental cleaning mechanism126-2726may be molded separately to the body of the device100-2700then joined after. For instance, in embodiments where the dental cleaning mechanism126-2726are bristles, the bristles could be formed as a “block” which is then bonded or fused with the basic bone shape. The benefit of this system is that the bristles could be made of a different (ex: softer) material, while the body is made of a harder, more durable material so the pet would get both gentle teeth cleaning and a durable dental device100-2700. In one embodiment, this “bristle block” may have features to enable it to more easily lock-in, be molded to, or fuse with the main device body. Also, the two components could be made of different materials altogether (ex: silicone bristles and a vulcanized rubber body).

It will also be appreciated that the dental device100-2700may include any combination of features. For example, a dental device may not include any cutouts on the second surface as shown in the dental device400,500and may include a cavity that is inclined or at an angle relative to a center axis of the dental device as shown in the dental device100. In another example, a dental device may have cutouts that are perpendicular to or at any angle relative to a center axis of the dental device. In still other embodiments, the cutouts may positioned opposite one another (i.e. on a top surface and a bottom surface) which allows dogs to access the treat more easily and also for treats to escape the device more easily, thereby increasing engagement. Further, in some instances, the cutouts on one side may provide direct access to the treat, while the cutouts on the opposite but corresponding side may simply be a groove with a dental cleaning mechanism. The groove with the dental cleaning mechanism may be formed such that the groove is not deep enough to reach the treat. The benefit of such embodiments is that it still provides cleaning to the top and bottom teeth of the pet, but additional material is retained on one side to increase the durability of the device.

In any combination of features, the dental device(s) as described above provide a reusable and convenient dental device for a pet that encourages a pet to self-clean its teeth by partially exposing a pet treat held in a cavity through one or more cutouts in the dental device. Thus, a pet is encouraged to chew the dental device through the cutouts and through dental cleaning mechanisms disposed on the cutouts to break and obtain the pet treat from the cavity via the cutouts.

The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description, for example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations other than those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claims require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed aspect, embodiment, and/or configuration. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

Moreover, though the description has included description of one or more aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternative aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter.