Patent Document

[0001]    This applications claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 62/290,226 filed Feb. 2, 2016, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to pet-handling accessory items and, in particular, to a headgear for pets that includes a sensory module that aids in acclimating the pet to the continued or repeated use of the headgear. 
         [0003]    Throughout the course of a pet&#39;s life there are many instances where restraint must be used to achieve a desired result, such as pet care or transportation. The restraint may be necessary to protect the caregiver, the owner or even the general public. A routine visit to a care giver, such as a veterinarian or a groomer, may also result in a situation where the caregiver needs access to eyes, ears, nose, mouth, teeth, etc. of the animal for proper care giving. In this respect, many existing muzzles and restraints are unsuitable or at least lacking me meeting all the criteria. Similarly, transporting a pet, whether by bus, car, train, air, or boat, and whether to a local kennel, the caregiver, or even to a private household, may require a restraint for the safety of all nearby. “Pets” specifically refers to a domesticated or tamed animal kept for companionship or pleasure and treated with care and affection. Dogs and cats are the most common, but certainly not the only, types of “pets” amenable to this invention. 
         [0004]    For cats, there are only a couple different options for restraint. The first is a quick slip-on muzzle that covers the eyes and attaches behind the head of the cat. This design is often hard to size, easy for the cat to remove, and very difficult to attach as it is applied from the front where the cat can physically fight back. This often leads to mishandling and can cause injury and potential health problems for the handler and the pet. The other design is a heavy plastic ball that is put over the animals&#39; entire head and covers all access points. It has proven to be impractical in professional settings for certain treatment modalities and for smaller animals, and is somewhat pricy for the average pet-owner. 
         [0005]    For dogs, there are more styles and variations on the market but they all tend to have the similar issues. The dogs who don&#39;t want the muzzle to remain on can often slip out of it, they are all applied from the front where the animal can see it and fight back. They tend to be difficult to size, often produce discomfort, and durability is often cited as an issue. 
         [0006]    A number of muzzles exist and are commercially available. For example, the following table identifies a number of known muzzles. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 Product 
                 Features 
                 Strengths 
                 Weaknesses 
                 Sources 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 Guardian Gear 
                 Fully adjustable 
                 Stops cats from 
                 Attaches  
                 Online 
               
               
                   
                 strap 
                 biting and chewing 
                 from front 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Made from strong 
                 Lined with chafe 
                 Difficult to secure 
                   
               
               
                   
                 nylon fabric 
                 free inner seams 
                 Velcro ™ straps 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Quick release 
                 for added comfort 
                 Cat can remove 
                   
               
               
                   
                 buckle 
                   
                 Blinds the cat 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 causing stress 
                   
               
               
                 Four Flags  
                 Water and dirt 
                 Very durable 
                 Attaches  
                 Four Flags  
               
               
                 Quick Muzzle 
                 resistant nylon 
                 Form fitting, 
                 from front 
                 Over Aspen 
               
               
                   
                 cloth 
                 making it difficult 
                 Covers the eyes 
                 Online 
               
               
                   
                 Quick closure 
                 for cats to remove 
                 which can cause 
                   
               
               
                   
                 hook-and-loop tab 
                   
                 fright/stress 
                   
               
               
                 Soft Paws 
                 Unique design 
                 Allows animal to 
                 Attaches  
                 Soft Paws 
               
               
                 Air Muzzle 
                 allows for easy 
                 see, reducing stress 
                 from front 
                 Online 
               
               
                   
                 attachment 
                 Optional attachable 
                 Too heavy for 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Open front 
                 oxygen mask  
                 smaller animals 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Adjustable joint 
                 Adjustable joint 
                 Impractical for 
                   
               
               
                   
                 for proper fit 
                 provides a secure 
                 long term use 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 fit every time 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Co. of Animals 
                 Ergonomically 
                 Maximizes safety 
                 Easily removed  
                 PETCO 
               
               
                 Baskerville 
                 designed strapping 
                 for owner 
                 by animal 
                 Online 
               
               
                   
                 Soft neoprene 
                 Tough and durable 
                 Sizing is difficult 
                   
               
               
                   
                 padding 
                 Comfortable  
                 for consumers 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Quick and  
                 for a pet 
                 Cumbersome 
                   
               
               
                   
                 easy fit 
                 Allows to drink 
                 on/off 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 and pant 
                 Basket size  
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 too small 
                   
               
               
                 Great Choice 
                 Breathable  
                 Comfortable 
                 Difficult sizing 
                   
               
               
                   
                 mesh material 
                 Prevents biting, 
                 Attaches from 
                 PetSmart 
               
               
                   
                 Safe and humane 
                 chewing and 
                 front 
                 Online 
               
               
                   
                 Padded in  
                 barking without 
                 Easily removed 
                   
               
               
                   
                 contact areas 
                 catching hair 
                 Not easily adjusted 
                   
               
               
                 Petco Nylon 
                 Quick fitting 
                 Allows for 
                 Difficult to size 
                 PETCO 
               
               
                 and Mesh 
                 Strong,  
                 drinking, panting 
                 Very easily 
                 Online 
               
               
                   
                 breathable 
                 and treat feeding 
                 removed 
                   
               
               
                   
                 nylon 
                 Soft and 
                 Only viable for 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Flexible 
                 comfortable 
                 small dogs 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Attaches  
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 from front 
                   
               
               
                 Veterinary 
                 Fits a wide variety 
                 Comfortable  
                 Very difficult  
                 Online 
               
               
                 Solutions 
                 of dogs and cats 
                 for animal 
                 to attach 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Utilizes minimal 
                 Hard to remove 
                 Attaches  
                   
               
               
                   
                 restraint 
                   
                 from front 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Hard to size 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0007]    However, available muzzles suffer from one or more drawbacks, such as blocking of vision of the animal, discomfort of fit, inability to eat or drink, difficulty in breathing or panting, and difficulty in putting the muzzle on the pet. 
         [0008]    Also known are restraints such as the encapsulating sphere with sleeve collar as taught in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,082,309 and 6,227,148, both to Wexler. These are ball-like or globular devices that include a polar opening for insertion of the pet&#39;s head and a sleeve or collar extending along the neck of the animal. Among the problems of existing muzzles and restraints is the need to approach the animal anteriorly (from the front) in order to equip the pet with the restraint. 
         [0009]    Almost universally, the pet prefers not to be so-restrained, so the use of muzzle restraint can be a source of anxiety to the pet. Consequently, pets often come to associate the muzzle with “bad” events (e.g. strange smells, strange sounds, and strange sensations and manipulations); and over time the pet may come to resist the use of it. This learned resistance further complicates the use of muzzles since, at first sight the pet may hiss, snarl, growl, bite, scratch or otherwise express its displeasure with the notion of wearing the muzzle. Pet bites account for a number of significant injuries to pet handlers. In a survey, 67% of respondents indicated receiving a bite or scratch from a cat, and 48% had suffered a dog bite. The New England Journal of Medicine reports that between 28% and 80% of bites and scratches develop in to infections. Some estimates indicate that about 30% of hand bite injuries require some hospitalization (J. Hand Surgery). 
         [0010]    It would therefore be advantageous if improved headgear existed that would address these drawbacks. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0011]    The invention relates generally to a muzzle or headgear for an animal. In general, the headgear comprises: 
         [0012]    a pair of half clamshell portions each having periphery complementary to the other, and a cup-like concavity adapted collectively to fit about the head of an animal, the periphery defining a rostral end and a caudal end relative to the animal, the pair of half portions being connected at least one point along the periphery of the clamshell portions to form a flexible hinge joint; and 
         [0013]    a fastener mechanism positioned at the periphery opposite the flexible hinge joint and adapted for securing the clamshell portions together. 
         [0014]    In some embodiments of the headgear, the flexible hinge joint is located at the caudal end and the fastener is located at the rostral end to enable fitting the headgear to the animal from a posterior direction. In some embodiments of the invention the clamshell portions are sized and shaped to fit closely about the head of the animal. In such embodiments, each clamshell portion may define an opening through which the ears of the animal may protrude and, optionally, an opening through which the eyes may see. The headgear may also include padding on the inside of the concavity for comfort during longer instances or even continuous wearing. 
         [0015]    In some embodiments, the clamshell portion comprises a solid, transparent material. In other embodiments, the clamshell portion comprises bands or straps that define a loose mesh material. 
         [0016]    In some embodiments, the headgear further comprises a pleasant sensory zone disposed in the headgear to deliver a pleasant stimulus to the animal while wearing the headgear. A pleasant sensory zone (PSZ) is an area that incorporates a feature that gives a pleasant stimulation of one or more of the senses of the pet while the pet wears the head gear. Such stimulus may be, for example, audible and placed hear the ear; olfactory and placed near the nose; or an edible “treat” made accessible near the mouth; or a combination of any of these. For example, the pleasant sensory zone may be loaded with a stimulus selected from a pheromone, a flavoring agent, and a pet treat. These PSZ&#39;s are described in more detail below. 
         [0017]    In another aspect, the invention includes a method for using the headgear. The method comprises: 
         [0018]    approaching the animal from the rear with the clamshell portions of the headgear separated or opened; 
         [0019]    closing the clamshell portions together about the head of the animal from behind with the caudal end of the periphery at the animal&#39;s neck and the rostral end at the animal&#39;s mouth and nose; and 
         [0020]    securing the fastener mechanism at the rostral end. 
         [0021]    The method may further include delivering a pleasant sensory stimulus to calm the animal. The methods may be used from many purposes, including travel, veterinary examination and medical or grooming procedures. In particular embodiments, the method may be used to habituate an animal to a potentially stressful environment through positive reinforcement; and/or protecting a wounded animal from aggravating the wound, a bandage or a cast in the area of the wound. 
         [0022]    The unique design and construction of the headgear allows for risk-free handling of companion animals in any setting, allowing for more frequent vet visits, easier grooming trips, and an overall better relationship between pets, owners, and professionals. The headgear is constructed out of a pliable yet rigid material and may be mesh or see through allowing the animal to have full eyesight and the ability to drink or receive treats. This design stands out from any other muzzle on the market because it is applied from behind the animal, so before they have a chance to fight back they are already inside of the muzzle and can cause no harm to themselves or the handler. Along with this innovative way to approach the animal, there are a host of additional unique features that the “clamshell” headgear may provide. 
         [0023]    Another key feature of some embodiments of present invention is inclusion of a hinge portion in the caudal or dorsal area of the head gear. This allows the pet to be approached posteriorly (from behind) which is generally a safer route. The caudal/dorsal hinge portion joins the clamshell portions at the neck, allowing the clamshell halves to be swung medially to join and latch in the rostral/ventral area. 
         [0024]    Another key feature is that the comfortable nature of the headgear allows it to be wearable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except possibly for times of solid food intake. The animal is generally able to drink using a suitable mouth opening. 
         [0025]    Another key feature is a method for handlers to treat the animal without risk of bite or aggression. Accordingly, this method comprises: 
         [0026]    fitting an animal with the headgear as described herein, 
         [0027]    closing and securing the clamshell portions together about the head of the animal; and 
         [0028]    treating the animal, wherein treating in the animal further comprises a treatment selected from dental treatment such as tooth or gum cleaning, oral surgery, etc., medication treatment such as the oral administration of antibiotics, anti-worm medications, vitamins or other medicines, hygiene treatment, feeding treatment, surgical treatment, ophthalmic treatment, or training treatment. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0029]    The accompanying drawings, incorporated herein and forming a part of the specification, illustrate the present invention in its several aspects and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings, the thickness of the lines, layers, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. 
           [0030]      FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C , illustrate one half clamshell portion of a first, solid embodiment in plan views (top and bottom); front and rear elevation views; and right and left side elevation views, respectively. 
           [0031]      FIG. 1  D illustrates the two clamshell halves of the embodiment of  FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C  in a perspective view. 
           [0032]      FIGS. 1E, 1F, and 1G  illustrate an alternate solid embodiment showing both clamshell halves in top closed view, top open view, and open inside views, respectively. 
           [0033]      FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C  illustrate a different mesh embodiment showing both clamshell halves in a top-caudal perspective view, a top-lateral perspective view, and a rostral-lateral perspective view, respectively. 
           [0034]      FIG. 2D  is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an area near the rostral end for illustrating one embodiment of a PSZ. 
           [0035]      FIG. 3  illustrates a pet and the anatomical directional terminology for pets, some of which is used in describing this invention. 
           [0036]      FIG. 4  illustrates another embodiment of the clamshell headgear. 
           [0037]      FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate different embodiments of the clamshell headgear, showing some features adapted for a cat. 
           [0038]      FIG. 6  illustrates a different embodiment of the clamshell headgear, showing some features adapted for dog. 
       
    
    
       [0039]    Various aspects of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment, when read in light of the accompanying drawings. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0040]    The terms, “muzzle”, “headgear” and “helmet” may all be used interchangeably to describe this invention. The term “clamshell” halves or portions, refers to a pair of complementary shapes, each generally defining a concavity and having a periphery that is complementary to the other “clamshell” half or portion. “Complementary” in this regard includes a straight or planar periphery as well and one marked by alignment or indexing features such as teeth or pins and receiving sockets or other detentes that are used to ensure proper alignment of the clamshell halves when closed. The need for these depends in part on the rigidity of the hinge. Although the surface of a marine clamshell may be continuous, surface continuity is not required of the headgear disclosed herein. The shape surfaces may be continuous except for suitable holes or orifices defined therein as explained herein; or they may be discontinuous, such as one made of strips of material to form a loose mesh-like structure. 
         [0041]    “Pets” refers generally to a domesticated or tamed animal kept for companionship or pleasure and treated with care and affection. Dogs and cats are the most common, but certainly not the only, types of “pets” amenable to this invention. Primates, pigs, goats, sheep, birds, lemurs, ferrets and other types of animals have also been reported as pets, and this list is still not exhaustive. Although the description may refer to the more typical pets, it will be understood that the invention is broadly applicable to any animal, domesticated or not, that has a head and mouth. 
         [0042]    “Handlers” refers to anyone who is responsible for moving, transporting, or manipulating the pet in any way. This explicitly includes owners and family members of owners; caregivers such as veterinarians, veterinary dentists, groomers, trainers, instructors, kennel operators, zoo personnel, etc.; and implicitly includes any other party meeting the general definition. 
         [0043]    Referring to  FIG. 3 , the head or nose of an animal is referred to anatomically as the anterior end and the tail is referred to as the posterior (sometimes caudal) end. In organisms, that have distinct heads (such as cats, dogs, birds, primates, and most other vertebrates) the anterior end is sometimes referred to as the rostral or cranial end. While “anterior”/“posterior” has broader applicability for all animals, applicant prefers rostral (for nose or beak) and caudal (tail) as directional terms. This is consistent with Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria, and with common usage in veterinary medicine. Moreover, given that the invention relates to headgear, cranial might be confusing. Of course, dorsal/ventral, medial/lateral, proximate/distal and other anatomical terms may also be used in the description. 
         [0044]    Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are described herein. All references cited herein, including books, journal articles, published U.S. or foreign patent applications, issued U.S. or foreign patents, and any other references, are each incorporated by reference in their entireties, including all data, tables, figures, and text presented in the cited references. 
         [0045]    Numerical ranges, measurements and parameters used to characterize the invention—for example, angular degrees, quantities of ingredients, polymer molecular weights, reaction conditions (pH, temperatures, charge levels, etc.), physical dimensions and so forth—are necessarily approximations; and, while reported as precisely as possible, they inherently contain imprecision derived from their respective measurements. Consequently, all numbers expressing ranges of magnitudes as used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” All numerical ranges are understood to include all possible incremental sub-ranges within the outer boundaries of the range. Thus, a range of 30 to 90 units discloses, for example, 35 to 50 units, 45 to 85 units, and 40 to 80 units, etc. Unless otherwise defined, percentages are wt/wt %. 
       Clamshell Headgear 
       [0046]    Referring first to  FIGS. 1A-1C  and  FIG. 4 , one embodiment of the headgear  10  is illustrated showing the “clamshell” nature of the head gear  10 , having two portions  10   a  and  10   b , joined at a hinge area  12 . Throughout this description a reference numeral, (e.g.  6 ) may have a suffix “a” (e.g.  6   a ) for a right-side part, and a suffix “b” (e.g.  6   b ) for a corresponding or complementary left-side part, relative to the animal.  FIG. 1A  shows only the right half portion  10   a  in top and bottom views; while  FIG. 1B  shows only the right half portion  10   a  in rostral (front) and caudal (rear) views. Each of the half portions  10   a  and  10   b  define a periphery  11   a , 11   b  that is complementary to periphery of the other side, and are cup-like or arcuate defining a cavity  13  for enclosing a spherical-like head. At a caudal area  19  of the periphery  11  (near the hinge area  12  in this embodiment), each of the half portions  10   a  and  10   b  also define semicircular recesses  14   a  and  14   b  that together form a generally circular opening to accommodate the neck of the animal. At the apex of a rostral end  21 , there may be one or more openings  17  to admit air and or light to the interior cavity  13 . The embodiment of the headgear  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 1A to 1C  may be solid, but preferably transparent. 
         [0047]    Near the rostral end  21  of the clamshell headgear  10  is a fastening mechanism such as latch  16 , which typically comprises a first portion  16   a  on half  10   a , and a complementary portion  16   b  located on half  10   b . The fastening mechanism may comprise one or more latches that hold the headgear closed securely about the head. Generally at least one latch is in a rostral area opposing the hinge area. As shown in  FIGS. 1E to 1G  in particular, the latch  16  is generally opposite from the hinge  12 . Alternative locations for fastening mechanisms that may still oppose the hinge area include the ventral neck area below the jaw and/or forehead area near the eyes. Other fastening mechanisms are described below. A pleasant sensory zone (PSZ)  40  may optionally be incorporated at or near the rostral end  21  of the headgear  10 . These also are described below. Also shown in this embodiment in  FIG. 4  is a ring  18  or other attachment point for a leash. The ring  18  may appear on one or both halves  10   a ,  10   b  of the clamshell headgear  10 . 
         [0048]    Referring now to  FIGS. 1D to 1G , an embodiment is illustrated wherein the device may be solid and not transparent, but includes orifices  20   a , 20   b  for ears, orifices  22   a , 22   b  for eyes, and orifice  17  or slots  24   a , 24   b  for mouth/nose or other ventilation. In this way the pet can see externally. In other variations, the slots may also be replaced with a single extended opening (as shown in  FIG. 5A ) so that the handler can better see into the pet&#39;s mouth. The ear orifices  20  also permit the headgear  10  to be smaller and lighter and fit closely to the head of the animal for a more secure, tighter fit. Especially in closely-fitted headgear, it may be desirable to provide cushioning or padding  26   a ,  26   b  in areas of the device that might rub on parts of the animal&#39;s head, causing irritation. Headgear that closely fits the head will have skull-following contours either molded into the device or as a result of selective padding in the interior of the headgear. 
         [0049]    A second embodiment is illustrated in  FIGS. 2A to 2C . In this embodiment, the headgear  30  is composed of two halves  30   a ,  30   b  fabricated as a loose mesh material of criss-crossing bands that also allow for visibility and breathing. Higher strength, thicker sagittal bands  52   a  and  52   b  form the periphery of each clamshell half along a mid-sagittal plane. Similar wider or reinforced coronal bands  52   a , and  54   b  may be used in a coronal plane to provide a more rigid clamshell shape. The remainder of the headgear  30  is formed of either solid material like front wall  60 , or the intermediate bands  56  that form a loose mesh or a combination of these. The headgear  30  includes a hinge area  32 , typically at a caudal end  39  opposing the rostral end  41 , and semicircular recesses  34   a ,  34   b  that form the neck opening. In some embodiments, headgear  30  may include fenestrations, openings, or orifices  41   a ,  41   b  for ears, orifices  42   a ,  42   b  for eyes, and orifices for mouth as well (not shown in  FIGS. 2A-2C ). However, unless otherwise indicated, both the solid headgear  10  and the mesh or open headgear  30  may have similar features and advantages and will be described together. 
         [0050]    The clamshell half portions may be sized in various dimensions to define a cavity  13  and orifices that accommodate the varied nose size and head shapes of pets of different genus, species, or breeds. For example a large size cup is required to encase breeds such as Great Danes, Newfoundlands or St. Bernards; while much smaller cup portions are required for smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas, Shih-Tzus, and many ‘miniature’ breeds. A special version may be devised for Pugs, as they have almost no rostral protrusion. Similarly, cats and pets of other species will require headgear halves proportioned for their respective noses.  FIGS. 5-6  further illustrate embodiments for different species. 
         [0051]    Referring to  FIGS. 1, 2 and 4 , the clamshell headgear comprises two half-shell portions that are hinged or fastened together. The hinge area  32  may be reinforced with thicker or wider sections as best shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . The hinge may comprise a “living” hinge as is well known in the injection molding arts, and the halves can easily be molded as one unit. Alternatively the hinge may be fabric, as shown in  FIG. 1G , or other material. 
         [0052]    In some embodiments, the hinge may be located rostrally. These embodiments are generally positioned on the pet&#39;s head from and anterior perspective. Embodiments that have a hinge along a top or superior aspect of the head gear are generally put on from a superior approach; embodiments that have a hinge along a lower or inferior aspect of the head gear are generally put on from below, using an inferior approach; and embodiments that have a hinge along a lateral aspect of the head gear would be put on using a right or left lateral approach. In a more preferred variation, the hinge is located at a caudal part of the headgear, allowing an approach posteriorly. As noted, this is advantageous in that the pet will not see the device approaching and will not enter the anxiety and resistance modes so quickly. 
         [0053]    At the aspect of the clamshell headgear opposing the hinge is a fastener or latch mechanism. The fastener or latch may comprise any type of device suited for securing the two clamshell halves together about the pet&#39;s head. Illustrative types of fasteners include buckles (e.g. quick release, side release, and conventional), snaps, hook-and-loop fasteners (such as Velcro™ brand), resilient clips or tabs with detents that may insert under opposing clips, tabs or slots, or other securing mechanism may be used to secure the two halves together. As best shown in  FIG. 2C  near the rostral end  41 , the sagittal band area may be reinforced with thicker or wider band sections or a solid portion to accommodate a fastening mechanism. Alternatively, the latch may be located at a rostral end or simply at the ventral side of the neck, relying on the size of the neck relative to the base of the skull to secure the device. 
         [0054]    While right and left halves that part along a sagittal plane are depicted in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , it will be understood that the halves may also part along a transverse plane, producing top and bottom halves instead of right and left halves. In the case of transverse plane top and bottom halves, the hinge and fastener are located on opposite lateral sides of the headgear, and the headgear is brought near to the animal&#39;s head from the side containing the hinge. 
         [0055]      FIGS. 5A and 5B  show an alternative embodiments of the headgear  110 ,  210  in a closed position about the head H of an animal such as a cat. The hinge area  112  lies at a caudal position. In the embodiment of  FIG. 5A , and there are openings  120 ,  122  and  124  to allow access to the animal&#39;s ears, eyes and nose/mouth, respectively. These openings allow a handler access for examining, treating, feeding, dosing medication or other necessary activity associated with the ears, eyes and nose/mouth of the animal. Recess  14   a  is shown for the animal&#39;s neck. In phantom, a variation is shown having an elongated neck or collar portion  128  if there is a need or desire to restrict flexion of the neck. Latch  116  is shown along the ventral side of the neck, although it could alternatively be anywhere under the chin area up to the rostral tip. A PSZ  40  for taste or smell sensations may be located between the eye opening  120  and the nose/mouth opening  124  at the rostral end. 
         [0056]    The openings  122 ,  124  over the eyes and nose/mouth may be completely open, or they may have solid inserts (not shown) with air perforations for breathing and/or made of transparent material for sight, or opaque material if the animal tends to be calmed by less visual stimulation. 
         [0057]    In the embodiment of  FIG. 5B , the headgear  210  is of a mesh construction similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 2A-2C , and having recesses  234  to define a neck opening, a fastening latch mechanism  216 , and web or band members such as  256 . A PSZ may or may not be present. Although the animal shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B  is a cat, this same type of headgear could also be used on a dog or other animal, with only minimal modifications to size the headgear to closely fit the animals head; for example elongating the headgear in a caudal-rostral dimension for a dog having a longer jaw and nose area, or adjusting the locations of ear and/or eye openings to be suitable for the dog or other animal. 
         [0058]      FIG. 6  illustrates another embodiment of the headgear  310  in a closed position about the head H of a dog. The halves of the clamshell are again hinged at a caudal location  312 . The neck or collar portion  328  is shown in a moderately extended position, but may extend even further if desired to minimize or prevent neck flexion as shown in phantom. There is little coronal aspect to this embodiment. The head and eyes are relatively free. However, there is a rostral portion  330  that is fairly lengthened in order to prevent bites. Latch  316  and leash attachment  318  are also shown in this embodiment. 
         [0059]    In some embodiments, the headgear device can act as a base for attachment of novelty headgear such as reindeer ears, bunny ears, baseball caps, sun shades, rain gear, etc. It can also act as an attachment point for Halloween type masks and costumes. In some cases, the headgear, with or without other attachments can help promote wound healing by restricting the animal&#39;s ability to lick or bite at the wounded area. In this sense, it can act like the well-known “Elizabethan collar” restraints but is infinitely more comfortable and tolerable than the traditional cone of shame collars in present use. 
         [0060]    In use, the headgear is easily placed about the pet&#39;s head and secured. In PSZ embodiments, the PSZ may be preloaded with an appropriate stimulus for the particular pet as discussed above. Alternatively, the headgear may be fitted first, and the stimulus is loaded into the headgear in situ. 
         [0061]    The location of the hinge generally dictates the direction of approach to the pet. Since the fastener is on an opposite side as the hinge, the clamshell opening is with the latch and that side must be brought towards the pet first. This is why the caudal hinge location is a preferred embodiment—it allows the handler to fit the headgear posteriorly, from behind the pet. The handler then biases or presses the clamshell halves closed about the head. For sagittal plane (right and left halves) the bias is towards a medial direction to the mid-sagittal plane; while for coronal plane embodiments, the bias is from a ventral and dorsal extreme toward the midline. The biasing force is easily delivered by the handler&#39;s hands. Another advantage of the caudal hinge embodiment is that the hands and arms of the handler doing the biasing remain behind the animal, relatively safe from bites or scratches. 
         [0062]    Once closed, the fastener of the headgear is secured, clamping the two halves together. The device allows restraint for such procedures as examination, venipuncture, pedicures, bathing, and grooming. 
         [0063]    In other uses, the device is useful for socializing and training an animal. In some situations, and aggressor animal may need to be restrained to prevent it from harming another anima. Thus the invention includes a method to mitigate injury from interspecific and intraspecific interactions such as aggression between two dogs or two cats, or a cat and a dog. This can allow training and socialization in situations in which the aggressor could not be trusted with the non aggressor, or to prevent escalation of aggression between animals. A leading cause of death for dogs under the age of 3 is due to poor socialization which results in fear and associated aggression. A critical socialization period for dogs is between 3 weeks and 3 months of age. Animals not well socialized during this time can become more fearful and aggressive when they encounter new dogs, new people, unfamiliar situations that interfere with appropriate socialization later. The headgear can protect people and other animals during these interactions so that the animal can learn appropriate behavior. It can also mitigate dangerous behavior and allow the animal to coexist. 
       Other Features and Advantages 
       [0064]    Construction: 
         [0065]    The clamshell headgear material will be lightweight, durable, and somewhat flexible. It will also need to be fairly strong and tactile so that the handler has no issues manipulating or maneuvering the animal. A couple of potential materials are mesh wire coated in plastic, or a synthetic plastic that would be injection molded. An animal will react negatively towards the headgear if it is any way uncomfortable for them, so, along with custom sizing, this design is made from a lightweight material so it is almost weightless for the animal wearing it. Color: The color of this product can vary greatly. There will be different options for purchase such as a deluxe model and a standard model. In the deluxe model there could be any color produced and for the standard they may only be a few colors offered. 
         [0066]    Custom Sizing and Fit: 
         [0067]    Not every animal will have the same size or shape of the head. The “clamshell” headgear will come in a variety of sizes and offer a superior fit than any other product on the market. This custom sizing ensures that the headgear will not be removed during use and will be comfortable for the animal. In some embodiments, inside of the headgear there is optionally another layer of security and comfort added. A soft wrap or padding may be employed in animals needing only limited restriction. By utilizing technology similar to that of an air cast one can reproduce a “hug” effect on the animal. This serves to reduce stress and calms the animal, making the restraint more acceptable, which is important for fractious animals and reduces the need for repeated sedations. 
         [0068]    Enhancements Useful for Medical or Veterinary Uses: 
         [0069]    Ear, Mouth, and Eye Access: 
         [0070]    The headgear preferably has openings for access to the ears, eyes, and the mouth. This is extremely important in veterinary and veterinary dental settings where the animal may need to have routine examinations and/or medicine applied to these areas. Use of the device facilitates and aids in administration of oral treatments and medications; dental treatment and medications; ophthalmic treatments and medications; and ear treatments and medications. Grips: Properly positioned grips are preferably built-in to the headgear to allow for safe manipulation of the animal&#39;s head without risk of injury. This is especially important for medical treatment caregivers, when blood needs to be drawn from the animal. Ear clamp: The implementation of an ear clamp will serve two main purposes. The first is to secure the ear during procedures and examinations, and the second is to get a pulse rate from the animal to know when dangerous levels are being approached. This is added security for the handler and the patient. Plastic Cover: A plastic cover or “overshell” that goes around the “clamshell” headgear will be developed as well so once the headgear is applied, the animal can be isolated within it. This case can serve as an oxygen mask and also a way of anesthetizing the patient. Oral speculum: An oral speculum is another feature that could be added to the headgear. This speculum would hold the mouth open during examinations and procedures reducing the risk of a bite. Fixation and venipuncture: A feature of the headgear is that it allows the head and neck area to be immobilized, particularly if the neck collar extension  128  is employed. This may be useful in treating neck injuries. In addition, with or without the collar extension, a jugular venipuncture is more easily accomplished to draw blood samples if the head and neck are immobilized through use of the headgear device. Sensors &amp; Indicators: The headgear may be fitted with sensors and indicators that provide useful information about the animal&#39;s biological or physiologic status. It may include lights that vary in color or number (e.g. red, yellow, green) to indicate dangerous or safe conditions. Such sensors may also be useful in a positive reinforcement feedback loop that operates to release the pleasant stimulus in response to sensors that detect a calm and relaxed physiologic state, so as to reinforce this desired behavior. This feature is particularly useful for training purposes. 
       Pleasant Sensory Zone 
       [0071]    As noted above, a key aspect of the invention is the pleasant sensory zone (PSZ) or module that is designed specially to appease the pet and reduce the anxiety and stress caused by strange handlers, strange environments, and foreign smells sounds and sights, and strange, unusual and sometimes uncomfortable manipulations or procedures. The PSZ is designed to pleasurably stimulate any of the pet&#39;s senses, specifically one or more of the senses of: vision/sight, olfactory/smell, auditory/sound, taste, and tactile/touch. The PSZ may be incorporated as a module or portion of the headgear that facilitates the delivery of a pleasant sensory stimulus to the proper area of the pet receptors for receiving that stimulus. For example, as discussed below, pheromones or flavors might be includes in a PSZ near the pet&#39;s nostrils at a rostral end of the headgear. Similarly, a tactile PSZ might be included along a portion of the headgear adjacent a ventral neck or chin area or a dorsal nape of the neck area; while an auditory stimulus would be included near the ear(s). 
         [0072]    Flavor Port: 
         [0073]    A flavor port located at a rostral portion near the mouth would provide a host of benefits for the handler. This allows for easy distraction of the animal during procedures, helps habituate them to the headgear through positive reinforcement, and reduces stress. For dogs, this might include peanut butter, bacon or other treat. For cats, tuna, catnip or chicken might be preferred. This port may stimulate gustatory receptors, olfactory receptors, or both. A specific embodiment of a flavor port type of PSZ  40  is illustrated in cross-section in  FIG. 2D . In the clamshell portion near the rostral aspect, the wall  60  forms an opening  62  through which a wafer or disk  64  of candy or other treat may be exposed and smelled or licked by the animal. Extension wall  66  extends outwardly and around the disk or wafer  64  to form a pocket between the wall  60  and extension wall  66 . At one end or top of the pocket an extension wall may be eliminated to allow the handler to slide the wafer or disk  66  into the pocket from outside the headgear to provide the stimulus for the animal. Flanges  68  of wall  60  extend beyond the limit of extension walls  66  to hold the wafer or disk  64  in the pocket so it cannot immediately be eaten by the animal. 
         [0074]    An alternative flavor port takes the form of a treat dispenser that, upon activation, dispenses a candy or other treat though an opening into the cavity  13  for the animal to eat. The PEZ candy dispenser loaded with animal treats is a suitable mechanism that could be used in for this type of flavor port. 
         [0075]    Pheromone Infused: 
         [0076]    To help make the headgear more attractive for the animal the use of pheromones could be applied as an olfactory stimulus. By infusing the headgear with specific pheromones in a PSZ area near the nostrils, it will reduce the stress levels for the animal, and have a calming effect. The pet may actually learn to enjoy wearing the device, and it may in turn be used more frequently and with ease. Olfactory stimuli such as pheromones could be delivered using a pocket-like structure described above having a scent infused wafer, but having a perforated barrier in wall  60  rather than a complete opening. This would allow the scent to permeate the perforated barrier while preventing the animal from eating the wafer. 
         [0077]    Auditory Stimuli: 
         [0078]    Pleasing sounds, such as “white noise” generators may have a calming effect. Obviously, these PSZs would be located near an ear area of the headgear. Miniature speakers driven by onboard integrated chips and battery power could provide this stimulus. Music might be stored in the chip or preferably communicated to the chip wirelessly from a phone or tablet or computer by using, for example, Bluetooth technology and paring the devices. 
         [0079]    Tactile Stimuli: 
         [0080]    A tactile sensation may be provided by means of finger-like protrusions that “scratch” the pet in key places like under the chin or the neck. Another tactile stimuli might be bumps or ridges that apply pressure to key points on the animal. Such pressure points may include the carotid body to perform a vagal maneuver to slow the heart rate and calm the animal. Other useful pressure points are known to those versed in acupressure techniques. 
         [0081]    Visual Stimuli: 
         [0082]    In some animals, it is calming to “blind” them visual stimuli. In such cases, an opaque cover over an eye opening may have a pleasant and calming effect as a PSZ. 
         [0083]    The foregoing description of the various aspects and embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive of all embodiments or to limit the invention to the specific aspects disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings and such modifications and variations may well fall within the scope of the invention as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.

Technology Category: 1