Device for leading an animal with double safety features

Abstract

Device (1) for leading an animal (2), wherein the device (1) comprises a leash element (60) and at least one handle element (40), wherein the leash element (60) has a first end (61) with a first attachment point (60-1) to which a first attachment element (10) is attached, designed for attachment to the animal (2), an opposite second end (62) with a second attachment point (60-2) to which a second attachment element (20) is attached, designed for attachment to a human (3), and a third attachment point (60-3), to which a third fastening element (30) is attached, which is designed for attachment to the animal (2), characterized by the fact that the third attachment point (60-3) is formed between the first and the second attachment point (60-1, 60-2) spaced apart from the first attachment point (60-1), and between the third attachment point (60-3) and the second attachment point (60-2) the at least one handle element (40) is formed spaced apart from the second attachment point (60-2), wherein a distance between the second attachment point (60-2) and the at least one handle element (40) along the rope element (60) is at least 30 cm and at most 150 cm.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for leading an animal.

[0002] An animal, such as a dog, can accompany a person during outdoor activities. To limit the radius of movement between the person and the animal, and to influence the animal's direction of movement, a device for leading the animal, such as a leash, is needed. This device allows the person to transfer control to the animal. Through this control, the person can influence the animal's direction of movement so that the animal remains under the person's guidance and cannot stray beyond a distance determined by the device while being led.

[0003] Typically, the lead is established by the human by manually grasping a loop or end of the lead and transferred to the animal via a collar attached to the lead and the animal. The animal may react to stimuli, such as those triggered by other animals, by making sudden, jerky movements that can contradict the direction of movement being guided by the human. Such a jerk can cause the human to lose their grip on the loop or end. Animals not accustomed to being led with a device are particularly prone to these sudden movements, such as young animals and / or especially frightened animals that want to escape. Such behavior can result in the animal running away, allowing it to move freely, and thus beyond the radius of movement defined by the human and / or the device.

[0004] If an animal runs away, there is a risk that it will be injured, for example by being hit by a vehicle, or that it will no longer be findable by humans.

[0005] An animal can also escape if it breaks free from its tether. For example, the animal might use its freedom of movement to free itself from a leading device, or the connection between human and animal might be broken in another way. For instance, the animal might slip out of its collar by backing up and pulling the collar off over its head. Furthermore, the leash might be detachably connected to the collar, for example, by a snap hook or carabiner. If the snap hook or carabiner is accidentally activated by touching another object, the connection between the leash and collar breaks, allowing the dog to escape. Such accidental activation could occur, for example, if the animal is moving through branches or undergrowth.

[0006] It is also conceivable that a person grasps the device with their hands and then spontaneously needs their hands for another activity, for example, due to a high level of distraction and / or in an emergency, causing them to release the device. Such situations can arise if a person stumbles and / or falls and spontaneously needs their hands to brace themselves and / or grasp another object. Therefore, when leading an animal, an important goal is to prevent the animal from running away or at least to reduce the risk of it escaping.

[0007] For example, EP 0 482 832 discloses a device for leading an animal, wherein a dog leash is proposed which is folded at one end to form a handle and is provided at its other end with a fastening means for attachment to, for example, a collar. A person can grasp the handle to lead the animal using the device.

[0008] Furthermore, a device for leading an animal is known from the prior art in DE 203 16 015 U1, wherein a dog leash with two releasable end closures and several attachment rings located at various points along the leash is proposed. By folding over one end with the releasable closure and attaching it to one of the attachment rings, a loop can be formed into which a person can grasp the dog. By relocating the attachment point of the releasable closure to one of the other attachment rings, the size of the loop, and thus the length of the leash, can be changed according to the position of the selected attachment ring.

[0009] US 2004 / 0194733A1 concerns a leash device for dogs and other domesticated animals.

[0010] US 2021 / 0037790A1 relates to a device and method for leashing an animal, in particular using a leash designed to prevent the animal from pulling.

[0011] The DE 20 2011 108 583 U1 concerns a dog lead that gives a dog handler the possibility of leading the dog by means of a single lead which has an individually adjustable collar at the lower end.

[0012] With devices known from the prior art, the animal can free itself from the device through the movement possibilities described above. Similarly, the device is only designed to be grasped by a person via a loop, meaning that the animal can move beyond a radius predetermined by the person if the person cannot grasp the loop or the leash element, or if the loop is ripped away by a sudden movement of the animal. Therefore, the known devices cannot reliably prevent the animal from escaping, nor can they sufficiently reduce the risk of escape.

[0013] Furthermore, animals, such as dogs, often escape in situations where preparations are underway to take them out for a walk. Typically, the animal is fitted with a leash in an enclosed space, such as a house, apartment, or vehicle. It can happen that the enclosed space is opened, particularly by a third party, before the animal is attached to the leash and / or before a loop or adjustment of the leash has been made by a person.

[0014] The technical problem is to create a device for leading an animal that offers improved protection against the animal escaping and thus fulfills the task of a device for leading an animal more effectively.

[0015] The solution to the technical problem is provided by the object with the features of claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0016] In particular, a device is provided comprising a rope element and at least one handle element, wherein the rope element has a first end with a first attachment point to which a first attachment element is attached, an opposite second end with a second attachment point to which a second attachment element is attached, and a third attachment point to which a third attachment element is attached, wherein the third attachment point is spaced apart from the first attachment point and the second attachment point, and the at least one handle element is spaced apart from the second attachment point between the third attachment point and the second attachment point.

[0017] A fundamental idea of ​​the invention is to produce an escape-proof leash. For this purpose, a third fastening element is provided in a section of the leash to secure it to the animal. The at least one handle is designed for manually grasping the escape-proof leash, allowing the animal to be led by a person in the conventional manner. Additionally, the first fastening element provides a primary securing point for attaching the leash to the animal, and the second fastening element provides a secondary securing point for attaching the leash to the person. This creates a device that, when leading an animal, can prevent it from escaping in the scenarios described above or in other conceivable situations, or at least significantly reduces the risk of escape.

[0018] The device for leading an animal comprises a lead element and at least one handle element. The lead element is elongated, with its longitudinal dimension being a multiple of its cross-sectional dimensions. The lead element can, for example, have a rounded or angular cross-section. However, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible. The lead element is preferably made of a polyester fabric with a coating of thermoplastic polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride. Such a material is marketed, for example, under the name BioThane by BioThane Coated Webbing Corp., located in Northridgeville, Ohio, USA. This choice of material gives the lead element particularly tear-resistant and weather-resistant properties. Production from other synthetic fibers, leather or imitation leather, or a composite material is also conceivable.Furthermore, light-reflecting substances, such as cat's eyes, can be applied to the surface of the linen element. Alternatively or additionally, fibers or films containing luminescent materials or active light sources such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can be incorporated into the material.

[0019] The at least one handle element can be made of the same or a similar material as the lead element and, in particular, be flexible and / or elastic. It is also conceivable that the at least one handle element is made of hard plastic. Furthermore, the at least one handle element has at least one opening for gripping, so that the person can grasp the at least one handle element to lead the animal. A coating or targeted ergonomic design of the at least one handle element to increase slip resistance is also conceivable, for example, by means of a rubber coating or ribbing stamped into the material.

[0020] The leash element is designed to transmit force between a person and an animal, and vice versa, with each force being a tensile force. In particular, a leading force exerted by the person can be transferred to guide the animal. In conventional leading, the force is applied by the person to at least one handle element and transmitted via the leash element to the third attachment point.

[0021] To transfer the guiding force to the animal and, for example, prevent it from escaping, a third fastening element is provided on the leash element. This third fastening element establishes a connection with the animal. To create this connection and thus advantageously hinder or prevent the animal from escaping, the leash element therefore features this third fastening element. This third fastening element, which serves to form a connection with the animal, is attached along the leash element at the third attachment point. Preferably, this third fastening element is permanently attached to the leash element at the third attachment point.

[0022] Preferably, the third fastening element, with which the device is connected to the animal, is designed as a chest and / or belly harness to form a connection with the animal's torso. A chest and / or belly harness, which may include one or more chest and / or belly straps, allows for a particularly healthy distribution of forces for the animal. Because it attaches to the animal's torso, such a harness is also called a torso harness.

[0023] Other embodiments, however, may provide that the third fastening element is also designed, for example, as a collar to create a connection with the animal. Even in such a design, it is advantageous if the third fastening element is permanently connected to the device, i.e., the lead element. Thus, it is only necessary to establish a positive connection directly on the animal to link it to the leading device. With such embodiments, the lead element cannot detach from the collar or even the harness, for example, when moving the animal through thickets or undergrowth.

[0024] However, embodiments are also conceivable, particularly if the animal already wears a harness or collar, especially regularly, in which the third fastening element is designed as a different type of element to form a positive-locking connection between the device and the collar, harness, or similar item already attached to the animal, whereby the connection is detachable. Such elements can, for example, be designed as bolt hooks and / or carabiners.

[0025] To ensure a secure connection between the lead element and the animal, the lead element has its first end with the first attachment point, to which the first fastening element is attached. The device is secured to the animal via this first fastening element, allowing force to be transmitted between the lead element and the animal even if there is no connection to the animal via the third fastening element at the third attachment point, for example, if the third fastening element has come loose. Especially with young animals and those not yet accustomed to wearing a harness, putting on such a harness can be difficult and requires several steps and individual actions. In these cases, a connection between the animal and the leading device can be established via the first fastening element, preferably even during the fitting process, to provide a safety measure.

[0026] The first fastening element is therefore designed, for example, as a band encircling the neck, if the connection to the animal at the third attachment point is made, for example, via a harness. Here, too, it is advantageous if the first fastening element is permanently attached to the leash element.

[0027] In embodiments where the third fastening element is designed as a collar or similar, the first fastening element may preferably be designed as a torso harness.

[0028] For cases in which the animal permanently wears, for example, a collar, embodiments may also be provided in which the first fastening element is a differently designed element for forming a positive locking connection, whereby the connection is detachable, for example in the form of a bolt hook or carabiner.

[0029] In principle, the escape of the animal is made more difficult or prevented in a particularly advantageous way, since even after the animal has been released from the third fastening element, a guiding force can still be transmitted between the human and the animal by means of the first fastening element.

[0030] The third attachment point is positioned between the first and second attachment points, spaced apart from the first. Because the first and third attachment points are spaced apart, it is advantageously possible to attach the device to different points or parts of the animal's body using the first and third attachment elements, particularly to different body parts. For example, the device can be attached to the animal's torso using the third attachment element and to the animal's neck using the first attachment element.

[0031] A reverse attachment is also possible, for example, attaching the first attachment to the animal's body and a third attachment to the animal's neck. This reverse attachment advantageously expands the device's range of uses, as it allows for a different way of leading the animal by attaching the third attachment to the animal's neck, without sacrificing the secure attachment provided by the first attachment, for example, to the animal's body. Even with the reverse attachment, the third attachment is primarily used to lead the animal, while the first attachment only transmits force between the person and the animal once the third attachment is released from the animal.

[0032] To make it more difficult or impossible for the animal to escape when the handle is not gripped by a person, the leash element has a second attachment point at its other end. This second attachment point is designed to secure the device to the person. The device can thus be securely connected to the person by means of this second attachment point. For example, the second attachment point could be designed as a wristband to create a connection with the person's arm, allowing a hand to grasp the at least one handle. Alternatively, a detachable attachment using a positive locking mechanism is also conceivable.The second fastening element advantageously makes it possible to transmit a guiding force between the human and the animal without having to grasp at least one of the stylus elements, since a force can be transmitted from the human to the animal between the second fastening element and the third and / or first fastening element.

[0033] The at least one handle element is formed between the third attachment point and the second attachment point along the leash element and is spaced apart from the second attachment point. As described at the outset as a fundamental idea of ​​the invention, the leash element can thereby be divided into a first securing section between the first and third attachment points, a middle section between the third attachment point and the at least one handle element, and a second securing section between the handle element and the second attachment point. The described positioning of the at least one handle element enables a direct transmission of the guiding force from the person to the animal via the middle section, without the need to transmit the guiding force or any part of the guiding force through another section of the leash element.A further advantage is that if the animal is released from the third attachment point, it cannot escape, as the guiding force can now be transferred to the animal via the first securing section. Furthermore, the animal's escape can be advantageously prevented if, for example, at least one handle is not gripped and the guiding force, or a force initiated by the fleeing animal, is transferred along the second securing section to or from the person.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the second fastening element is preferably designed as a securing element for encircling a person's torso. Designing the second fastening element as a securing element for encircling a person's torso advantageously increases the user-friendliness of the device and thus better prevents the animal from escaping, since encircling the person's torso allows the guiding force to be applied to the leash element close to the person's center of gravity, unless the person applies the guiding force via the at least one handle element. This allows the second fastening element to resist the animal's movements, particularly during sudden movements, and thus makes it easier to guide the animal compared to attaching the second fastening element to body parts that are further from the person's center of gravity than the torso.

[0035] Preferably, a positive-locking connection with the person is formed via the second fastening element, i.e., between the leading device and the person, before the leading device is connected to the animal via the first fastening element and / or the third fastening element. This ensures that as soon as a connection is formed between the leading device and the animal via the first or the third fastening element, protection against the animal's escape is in place, even in situations where, for example, the room in which the animal is being prepared for leading is opened prematurely.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the securing element or second securing element can be designed as a band or strap encircling the torso. Other configurations besides a harness with multiple straps are possible. All embodiments are preferably adjustable to the human torso circumference and / or other dimensions of the limbs.

[0037] It is also preferred that the second fastening element be permanently connected to the rope element, so that a reliable connection between the person and the rope element always exists as soon as a form-fitting connection with the person is detachably formed via the second fastening element.

[0038] The materials suggested for the linen element can be used for the second fastening element, but other material choices and / or combinations are also conceivable. For example, nylon or leather could be used.

[0039] Preferably, the second fastening element, which serves as a safety element, has a resealable locking mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, an emergency release can be provided. A resealable locking mechanism on the safety element advantageously increases user-friendliness, as it facilitates the attachment and / or removal of the second fastening element, which serves as a safety element.

[0040] The relockable locking element can, for example, be implemented as a button connection attached to the second fastening element, wherein at least one button can be attached to one end of the relockable locking element and at least one buttonhole for receiving the at least one button is formed at the opposite end of the locking element. Furthermore, the second fastening element, which serves as a locking element, can have an emergency release, thus advantageously increasing the safety of the device. In an emergency situation in which it becomes necessary to release the locking element manually, the second fastening element can be unlocked by means of the emergency release within a time appropriate to the emergency situation, in particular by means of a hand movement.The emergency release can be integrated into the locking element, for example, by designing the locking element as a click buckle or buckle. In the case of a click buckle, the two locking lugs of the male end of the buckle can be springed back with a single movement, instantly releasing the connection. Alternatively, the emergency release can be designed as a separate locking element, such as another click buckle, which is connected to the locking element at a different position than the primary locking element.

[0041] The emergency release element can, in another embodiment, be designed as a pin or cotter pin which is guided through overlapping eyelets attached to opposite ends of sections of the second fastening element. As long as the pin or cotter pin is in the eyelets, they are positively connected to each other. If the pin or cotter pin is removed, the connection is released.

[0042] The locking element and / or the emergency release can be made of plastic and / or metal, but other materials and composite materials are also conceivable.

[0043] Preferably, the second fastening element comprises at least one joint element, wherein the at least one joint element has at least one degree of rotational freedom between the second fastening element and the second fastening point. The joint element advantageously increases the user-friendliness of the device. By means of the joint element, a nodding and / or rocking motion of the leash element relative to the second fastening element is permitted, thereby expanding the possible directions of movement when leading the animal without compromising the safety against the animal escaping. The joint element can, for example, be designed as a metallic swivel joint or, in particular, as a metallic ball joint.By designing the joint element with an unrestricted axis of rotation, for example by means of a ball joint, twisting between the line element and the second fastening element during use of the device can be advantageously prevented or existing twisting can be reversed, thereby further increasing the user-friendliness of the device.

[0044] In some embodiments, the third fastening element is preferably designed as a harness with a resealable closure for attachment to an animal's body. Designing the third fastening element as a harness for attachment to an animal's body advantageously increases security against the animal escaping, as this makes it more difficult for the animal to detach itself from the third fastening element. The harness can be designed to include a strap, a chest strap, and one or more body straps, with the body straps encircling the body, particularly between the front and hind legs, and / or forming openings for the front legs to pass through. However, other harness designs are also conceivable. The materials proposed for the leash element are suitable, but other material choices and / or combinations are also possible.

[0045] By designing the third fastening element as a harness, a more advantageous transfer of the guiding force from the human to the animal is achieved, as the guiding force is applied closer to the animal's center of gravity compared to collars known from the prior art. This can, in particular, protect the animal's larynx and trachea compared to the strain that would be expected, for example, when using a collar. Furthermore, such a harness significantly reduces the risk of the animal slipping off the third fastening element, as the animal cannot simply slip it off over a single body part, as is the case with a collar, which can be slipped off over the animal's head. With the harness, slipping off is made more difficult by multiple body parts, such as the torso, forelegs, and head.The resealable closure element advantageously increases the user-friendliness of the device, as the attachment and / or removal of the dishes is made easier by the resealable closure element.

[0046] The reusable fastening element could, for example, be a click buckle connecting the torso straps to the bridge; that is, a snap-fit ​​connection with a male end featuring two spring-loaded locking tabs and a female end for receiving the male end via a front opening and two side openings for engaging the two locking tabs. However, other designs for the reusable fastening element are also conceivable, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, straps, and buckles.

[0047] In another embodiment, the harness is designed as a safety harness, which includes a securing element for encircling the animal's waist. To further reduce the risk of the animal escaping by slipping out of the harness, it is advantageous to design the harness as a safety harness, with a securing element encircling the animal's waist. The waist refers to the narrowest point of the torso located between the hips and the ribcage, so that by encircling the waist, for example by means of a resealable waist strap formed by the harness, the risk of the animal unintentionally slipping out of or removing the harness is further minimized. The materials proposed for the leash element are suitable for the safety harness and securing element, but other material choices and / or combinations are also conceivable.

[0048] A one-piece leash element is particularly preferred. The device advantageously increases the security against the animal escaping when the leash element is a single piece. A one-piece leash element has fewer connection points compared to a multi-piece leash element. Connection points can represent weak points and are generally more prone to damage and breakage than the base material. A loosening or unraveling of a connection point can result in the animal escaping. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the one-piece leash element partially or completely incorporates the fastening elements. This allows the leash to be manufactured from fewer components, which can advantageously simplify the production of the device.

[0049] In some embodiments, the at least one handle element is advantageously designed as a non-releasable loop. Designing the at least one handle element as a non-releasable loop advantageously increases the safety of the device, since the loop, by means of circumferentially extending material, has a closed edge with at least one opening into which a hand can be inserted. Furthermore, the non-releasable connection between the rope element and the loop increases the safety of the device compared to a releasable loop. The loop can be made of the same material as the rope element; in particular, the material can be selected such that the loop is flexible with respect to bending. Preferably, the rope element forms the loop, for example, by riveting together two points along the rope element between the third and the second attachment point.Furthermore, this increases the portability of the device when not in use, since the at least one handle element, for example, can be foldable compared to a design made of hard plastic, thus saving space during transport. The advantage of such an embodiment is that even if the non-removable connection forming the loop breaks, the integrity of the rope element itself is not directly compromised. If the loop is formed, for example, by connecting the rope element to itself at two spaced-apart points using a rivet or, preferably, several rivets, a connection between the first and third fastening elements on the one hand and the second fastening element on the other hand is maintained, even if one or more rivets break and the loop forming the handle element comes undone.

[0050] In some embodiments, particularly those where the third fastening element is designed as a harness or similar, the first fastening element is preferably designed as a collar for attaching to an animal's neck. Securing the animal against escape is advantageously increased when the first fastening element is designed as a collar, since this requires the first fastening element to be slipped off at least one part of the animal's body. Thus, removing the device from the animal may be more difficult compared to a design of the first fastening element as a muzzle.

[0051] The collar preferably has a resealable closure, for example, a click buckle or buckle, which facilitates attaching and / or removing the collar from the animal. Preferably, the first fastening element is adjustable to a specific neck circumference of the animal. The collar may also have other fastening means, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener that can form a secure and releasable connection while simultaneously allowing for circumference adjustment. This advantageously increases the user-friendliness of the device. The materials proposed for the leash element are suitable, but other material choices and / or combinations are also conceivable.

[0052] In preferred embodiments, the fastening elements are permanently connected to the leash element at the attachment points. Preferably, all fastening elements—that is, the first, second, and third fastening elements—are permanently connected to the leash element. The safeguard against the animal escaping is advantageously increased if the fastening elements cannot be detached from the leash element at the attachment points.It follows that all fastening elements of the device are permanently connected to the leash element, advantageously preventing one or more of the fastening elements from becoming disconnected when the device is applied to the animal or person, or from becoming lost after the fastening elements are released, thus rendering the device unable to fulfill its purpose according to the invention, or at least not fully. Furthermore, with detachable connections, movements of the animal or person can lead to an unwanted release of a fastening element from its attachment point on the leash element, for example, if a fastening element is attached to the leash element by means of a snap-fit ​​connection and the animal releases this snap-fit ​​connection with a sufficient jerk, or if the snap connection is released by contact with another animal or object.A permanent connection can be achieved, for example, by riveting the linen element to the fastening elements using metal rivets.

[0053] Furthermore, the distance between the second attachment point and the at least one handle along the rope element is at least 30 cm and at most 150 cm, preferably between 40 cm and 120 cm, and even more preferably between 60 cm and 90 cm. By maintaining a distance of 30 cm to 150 cm between the second attachment point and the at least one handle, the user-friendliness and safety of the device can be advantageously increased. This range allows the second attachment point to be attached at various points on the person without hindering their ability to grasp the at least one handle after the second attachment point has been secured. In particular, it is conceivable that this minimum distance allows the at least one handle to be passed to another person if necessary, without the person having to detach the second attachment point.At a distance of 30 cm or more, it can be assumed that grasping and passing the at least one handle element by a person is advantageously facilitated. At a distance of 150 cm or less, the risk of the leash element partially touching the ground and the resulting adverse dragging is advantageously reduced if the at least one handle element is grasped and the second attachment element is attached to the person. Furthermore, by limiting the distance to between 40 cm and 120 cm, the user-friendliness and safety of the device can be increased such that, for example, if the animal jerks its way to the at least one handle element, the jerk that the animal can generate on the attached second attachment element is advantageously limited, and grasping and passing the at least one handle element are advantageously facilitated.In a more preferred embodiment, the distance is limited to a range between 60 cm and 90 cm, which advantageously further limits the jerk that can be generated by the animal and further facilitates grasping and passing the at least one handle element. In particular, the distance between the second attachment point and the at least one handle element, when a second attachment element is attached to the user, allows the user's arm grasping the handle element to pivot preferably 180 degrees about an axis orthogonal to the user's standing surface, without the leash element between the handle element and the second attachment point restricting movement or dragging on the ground.

[0054] In another embodiment, the distance between the first end and the third attachment point is chosen such that the leash element remains tension-free between the first end and the third attachment point when the third attachment point is attached to the animal's body and the first attachment point is attached to the animal's head, even when the animal moves its head. The same applies to embodiments in which the third attachment point is attached to the animal's neck and the first attachment point is attached to the animal's body.

[0055] As described earlier, the arrangement of the attachment points along the lead rope allows the lead rope to be divided into three sections, with the first securing section located between the first and third attachment points. Furthermore, the guiding force for leading the animal is transferred via the middle section between the at least one handle and the third attachment point when the third attachment point is attached to the animal. The distance between the first and third attachment points can be chosen so that the lead rope in the first securing section has a length that allows the animal free movement of its head, in particular turning, raising, and / or lowering its head.The spacing allows head movement without transmitting a tensile force between the first and third attachment points, and / or without transmitting all or part of the leading force to the animal via the first attachment point when the third attachment point is attached to the animal. Consequently, the first attachment point remains tension-free, or in other words, the first securing gap transmits no force when the third attachment point is attached to the animal's body and the animal moves its head. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the spacing could be adjusted via a buckle along the leash, offering various settings to, for example, adapt the spacing to the size of the animal.

[0056] In a further embodiment, fastening means adapted to the first fastening element are provided between the third fastening element and the at least one handle element for securing the first fastening element to the leash element when only the third fastening element is used to attach the device to the animal. The user-friendliness of the device is advantageously increased if the first fastening element can be secured to the leash element when not in use. This prevents the first fastening element from dragging on the ground when it is not used together with the third fastening element to form a connection with the animal.

[0057] In particular, the fastening means can be designed such that both the first fastening element and the unused portion of the leash element can be secured between the third fastening element and the at least one handle element. For example, the first fastening element can be designed as a resealable collar, wherein the parts of the collar and / or the portion of the leash element to be secured can be fastened between the third fastening element and the at least one handle element by means of a hook-and-loop fastener, the length of the closed and / or open collar and the length of the fastening means on the leash element being appropriately matched. Furthermore, an inward-facing and / or an outward-facing side of the collar can have a surface that can be connected with a hook-and-loop fastener.Securing the first fastening element can also be achieved using a button placket with buttonholes integrated into the linen element along the first fastening element, or using other fastening means. If the first fastening element, for example, has a snap closure, the fastening means for securing the first fastening element can be spaced apart and include a male and female locking part of another snap closure, thus forming two snap closure connections when the first fastening element is attached to the linen element.

[0058] For example, the first attachment point can be released after the third attachment point has been securely fastened to the animal and preferably secured to the fasteners between the third attachment point and the handle. This has the advantage that the safety section between the first and third attachment points cannot become caught or snagged on objects. Particularly if the third attachment point is designed as a safety harness from which the animal cannot wriggle free, the first attachment point can be released or remain in place while the animal is being led. If the animal then moves through thickets and undergrowth, potential strangulation caused by the safety section of the leash becoming entangled between the first and third attachment points is prevented.

[0059] The invention is explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments. The figures show: Fig. 1. First concrete embodiment of a device for safely guiding an animal, Fig. 2. Emergency release of the second fastening element, and Fig. 3. Second concrete embodiment of a device for safely guiding an animal with a fixed first fastening element.

[0060] In the following, identical reference symbols denote elements with the same or similar technical characteristics.

[0061] Fig. Figure 1 shows a specific embodiment of a device 1 designed for the safe control of an animal 2 by a person 3. A dog is used as an example of the animal 2. The device 1 is intended to prevent the animal 2 from running away, as it could injure itself while running, for example, if it runs into a road and is hit by a vehicle. In particular, the device 1 is designed to allow the person 3 to control the animal 2 in a healthy and comfortable manner; that is, the device 1 is designed so that the force required to control the animal 2 is transmitted gently and comfortably from the person 3 to the animal 2.

[0062] The device 1 comprises a rope element 60, which has a first end 61 with a first attachment point 60-1 and a second end 62 with a second attachment point 60-2. A third attachment point 60-3 is formed between the first end 61 and the second end 62 of the rope element 60. At least one handle element 40 is formed between the second attachment point 60-2 and the third attachment point 60-3. A hand 3-1 of person 3 can engage in the at least one handle element 40 and thus apply the force to guide the animal 2 into the device 1. A third attachment element 30 is attached to the third attachment point 60-3 to form a connection with the animal 2. When the third attachment element 30 is attached to the animal 2, the force applied by person 3 can be transferred to the animal 2, and the animal 2 can be guided by person 3 in the conventional manner.

[0063] Along the rope element 60, at least one handle element 40 is attached to the rope element 60 at a distance from the third attachment point 60-3. Fig. 1. At least one handle element 40 is formed by means of two rivets 41 through the leash element 60 as a non-releasable loop 40-1 in the one-piece leash element 60. The loop 40-1 has an opening which is intended for grasping by a person 3 with a hand 3-1. From the loop 40-1, a guiding force can be transmitted by the person 3 along the leash element 60 via the third fastening element 30 to the animal 2.

[0064] Fig. Figure 1 shows the third fastening element 30 designed as a safety harness 30-1 with an optional securing element 30-2. The safety harness 30-1 is designed as a torso harness. Not shown is a preferred fastening mechanism for easier attachment and removal of the third fastening element 30 from the animal 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the safety harness 30-1 has a bar 31, a chest strap 32, and a torso strap 33. This ensures that the force for leading is applied to the animal 2 in a particularly gentle manner, since the safety harness 30-1 does not pull on the neck 2-2 or head 2-1, but rather distributes the force over large parts of the torso 2-3 via the chest and torso straps 32, 33. The safety harness 30-1 is additionally connected to a securing element 30-2, which encircles the animal's waist 2-4 with a waist strap 34.This can advantageously reduce the risk of the animal 2 escaping from the safety harness 30-1, for example by slipping off the safety harness 30-1, since the waist 2-4 is the narrowest part of the torso 2-3 of the animal 2 and slipping off the waist belt 34 from the waist 2-4 is particularly difficult.

[0065] The third fastening element 30, preferably designed as a harness, can also be configured differently than described. It can have more or fewer straps and belts, preferably adapted to the physiology of the animal 2 being led. It is also conceivable that the third fastening element 30 could be designed for attachment to a harness and / or belt attached to the animal 2.

[0066] For initial securing, the leash element 60 has its first end 61 with the first attachment point 60-1, spaced apart from the third attachment point 60-3. A first fastening element 10 is attached to the first attachment point 60-1 to form a connection with an animal 2. By means of the first fastening element 10, the device 1 can be connected to the animal 2 in a first step, for example, during the attachment of the device 1. Now, while the third fastening element 30 is being attached, the animal 2 is already secured against escape if the at least one handle element 40 is grasped by the person 3. Furthermore, the animal 2 is advantageously secured against detachment from the device 1 if the first or third fastening element 10, 30 detaches from the animal 2, since the fastening element 10, 30 remaining on the animal 2 continues to connect the animal 2 to the device 1.

[0067] The first fastening element 10 is as in Fig. Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment designed as a collar 11 that encircles the neck 2-2 of the animal 2. The collar 11 may have a fastening element (not shown) to simplify the attachment and / or removal of the collar 11. The distance between the first attachment point 60-1 and the third attachment point 60-3 is shown in Fig. 1 selected such that the animal 2 can move its head 2-1 freely from the device 1 and, in particular, no guiding force is transmitted between the third attachment point 60-3 and the first attachment point 60-1 when the third attachment element 30 is applied to the animal 2.

[0068] For a second safety measure, the leash element 60 has a second end 62 with a second attachment point 60-2, spaced apart from at least one handle element 40. A second attachment element 20 is attached to the second attachment point 60-2 to form a connection with a person 3. The second attachment element 20 secures the animal 2 against escape if the person 3 does not grasp the device 1 with, for example, one hand 3-1. This can be particularly advantageous when putting on the device 1, as the person 3 can use both hands 3-1 to do so. The second securing attachment element 20 also prevents the animal 2 from snatching the device 1 away, since a force continues to be transmitted between the person 3 and the animal 2 even when the at least one handle element 40 is released.The at least one handle element 40 can also be passed on to another person (not shown), so that even when animal 2 is handed over, a connection with animal 2 via the device 1 can always be ensured.

[0069] After Fig. The second fastening element 20 is designed as a securing element 21 for enclosing the torso 3-3 of the person 3. Additionally, the securing element 21 has a relockable locking element 20-1, which here is designed as a click buckle 22. The click buckle 22 can also serve as an emergency release 25, which can unlock the locking element 20-1 with a single movement, thus enabling the person 3 to detach from the device 1, thereby advantageously increasing the safety of the device 1.

[0070] Alternatively, for example, in the case of a second fastening element 20 designed as a waist belt 24, the waist belt 24 can comprise several segments. Two of these segments 26, 27 abut after Fig. 2 with their ends 24-1, 24-2 abut each other, each end of which is formed with eyelets 24-3, 24-4. The eyelets 24-3, 24-4 are arranged offset at the two ends 24-1, 24-2 of the segments 26, 27 such that the eyelets 24-3, 24-4 together form a channel 24-5 for receiving a leg 51 of a spring pin 50 when the ends 24-1, 24-2 of the segments 26, 27 abut each other. When one leg 51 of the spring pin 50 is inserted into the channel 24-5 formed by the eyelets 24-3, 24-4, the other leg 52 clamps the eyelets 24-3, 24-4, so that the spring pin 50 is firmly seated in the eyelets 24-3, 24-4. At the point where the two legs 53 of the spring pin 50 meet, a gripping element 54, for example in the form of a thread 54-1, can be formed, on which force can be applied in an emergency, so that the legs 51, 52 are spread apart and one leg 51 is pulled out of the channel 24-5 formed by the eyelets 24-3, 24-4.This opens the positive locking connection between the two segments 26, 27 of the abdominal belt 24, so that in an emergency the emergency release of the second fastening element 20 can be easily opened.

[0071] Furthermore, the second fastening element comprises 20 in Fig. 1 an optional joint element 20-2, which is designed as a ball joint 23 and thus has at least one degree of rotational freedom between the second fastening element 20 and the second fastening point 60-2. This advantageously prevents twisting of the line element 60.

[0072] The rope element 60 has a length between the second attachment point 60-2 and the at least one handle element 40 that allows freedom of movement for the arm 3-2 and hand 3-1 of the person 3 after the second attachment element 20 is fastened and the at least one handle element 40 is grasped. The freedom of movement of the arm 3-2 can, in particular, mean that when the rope element 60 is taut, i.e., when the rope element 60 transmits a force between the animal 2 and the person 3, the at least one handle element 40 remains within the grasp of the person 3 without loss of balance, or in other words, that the at least one handle element 40 is within the grasp of the person 3 without the person 3 having to move their center of gravity from their base of support.Furthermore, the freedom of movement of the arm 3-2 and the hand 3-1 of the person 3 can mean that the leash element 60 between the second attachment point 60-2 and the at least one handle element 40 remains free of tension, i.e., no force is transmitted between the second attachment point 60-2 and the at least one handle element 40 when the person 3 moves the arm 3-2 and / or the hand 3-1 engaging in the at least one handle element 40 to lead the animal 2.

[0073] The three fastening elements 10, 20, 30 can be used similarly to those in Fig. The advantageous connection of the loop 40-1 to the leash element 60 shown in Figure 1 is achieved by means of two rivets 41 each at the corresponding attachment points 60-1, 60-2, 60-3. A connection using multiple rivets 41 has the advantage that even if one rivet fails, the function of the device 1 is maintained, meaning the animal 2 cannot escape. Furthermore, a design of the loop 40-1 with the leash element 60 has the advantage that even if all rivets or other means used to establish a connection between the leash element 60 and the loop 40-1 are loosened, the securing effect of the device 1 is retained, since a force to guide the animal 2 can also be transmitted from the second attachment element 20 to the animal 2. It is also conceivable to attach the attachment elements 10, 20, 30 to the corresponding attachment points 60-1, 60-2, 60-3 with a single rivet.It is also conceivable to fasten the fastening elements 10, 20, 30 to the associated fastening points 60-1, 60-2, 60-3 by means of one or more seams, which can achieve an equivalent effect, i.e. the formation of a non-removable connection.

[0074] One advantage of forming the handle element 40 as a loop 40-1 in the preferably one-piece leash element 60 by means of, for example, one or more rivets 41, is that even if the rivets 41 should break and the loop 40-1 should come undone, the secure connection between human 3 and animal 2 is not destroyed, as long as the animal 2 is connected to the leash element 60 at the first end of the leash element 61 via the first fastening element 10 or via the third fastening element 30 spaced apart from it and attached to the third fastening point 60-3, and at the other end 62 the human 3 is connected to the leash element 60 via a second fastening element 20.

[0075] Fig. Figure 3 shows a second specific embodiment of a device 1, which is intended for the safe leading of an animal 2 by a person 3. The in Fig. The embodiment of device 1 shown in section 3 exhibits all the advantages and functions described in the Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 1 is further detailed. Additionally, the line element 60 has fastening means 80 between the third attachment point 60-3 and the at least one handle element 40 for attaching the first fastening element 10. If the first fastening element 10 is not attached to the Tier 2, the fastening means 80 can serve to attach the first fastening element 10 to the line element 60 in a manner adapted to the first fastening element 10. Fig.3 The first fastening element 10 is designed as a resealable flexible collar 11 with a closure element (not shown) and a surface 11-1 that can be connected to a hook and loop fastener 80-1. In the illustrated embodiment, the collar 11 cannot be closed by means of the closure element, and therefore can be open and have a collar length. When the collar 11 is not in use, it is attached to the leash element 60 by means of the hook and loop fastener 80-1, which has a length adapted to the collar length.This advantageously provides a use for the device 1, which can be used, for example, if the animal 2 is not to be secured against escape by the first fastening element 10, for example because the animal 2 is accustomed to being led by the human 3 by means of the third fastening element 30 and securing it by the human 3 via the second fastening element 20 by means of the securing element 21 is deemed sufficient.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiments, the fastening elements 10, 20, and 30 are all preferably permanently connected to the leash element 60. This ensures that as soon as the first fastening element 10 and / or the third fastening element 30 are connected to the animal 2 and the second fastening element 20 is connected to the human 3, a reliable connection is established between the human 3 and the animal 2. Neither an unintentional release of the first fastening element 10, designed as a collar 11, nor of the third fastening element 30, designed as a torso harness, nor an unintentional release of the second fastening element 20, designed as a belly strap 24, can occur without destroying the respective permanent fastening. Reference symbol list 1 Device 2 Tier 2-1 Head of the animal 2-2 Neck of the animal 2-3 Body of the animal 2-4 Waist of the animal 3 people 3-1 Human Hand 3-2 Human arm 3-3 Human trunk 10 first fastening element 11 Collar 11-1 Surface of the collar 20 second fastening element 20-1 Locking element 20-2 Joint element 21 Safety element 22 click buckles 23 Ball joint 24 abdominal belt 24-1 first end of the first segment of the abdominal belt 24-2 second end of the second segment of the abdominal belt 24-1 first eyelet 24-2 second eyelet 24-5 channel 25 Emergency release 26 first segment of the abdominal belt 27 second segment of the abdominal belt 30 third fastening element 30-1 Safety Harness 30-2 Safety element 31 Bridge 32 Chest strap 33 Trunk strap 34 Waist belt 40 at least one handle element 40-1 non-releasable loop 41 rivets 50 spring pins 51 first leg of the spring pin 52 second leg of the spring pin 53 Connection point of the legs of the spring pin 54 Gripping element 54-1 thread 60 linen elements 60-1 first attachment point 60-2 second attachment point 60-3 third attachment point 61 first end of the linen element 62 second end of the linen element 80 Fasteners 80-1 Velcro strap

Claims

Device (1) for leading an animal (2), wherein the device (1) comprises a lead element (60) and at least one handle element (40), wherein the lead element (60) has a first end (61) with a first attachment point (60-1) to which a first attachment element (10) is attached, which is designed for attachment to the animal (2), an opposite second end (62) with a second attachment point (60-2) to which a second attachment element (20) is attached, which is designed for attachment to a person (3), and a third attachment point (60-3) to which a third attachment element (30) is attached, which is designed for attachment to the animal (2), characterized in that the third attachment point (60-3) is formed between the first and the second attachment points (60-1, 60-2) spaced apart from the first attachment point (60-1).and between the third attachment point (60-3) and the second attachment point (60-2) the at least one handle element (40) is formed spaced apart from the second attachment point (60-2), wherein a distance between the second attachment point (60-2) and the at least one handle element (40) along the rope element (60) is at least 30 cm and at most 150 cm. Device (1) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the fastening elements (10, 20, 30) are permanently connected to the linen element (60) at the fastening points (60-1, 60-2, 60-3). Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the third fastening element (30) is designed as a harness with a resealable closure element for attachment to the torso of an animal (2-3). Device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the harness is designed as a safety harness (30-1) which has a securing element (30-2) for enclosing the waist of an animal (2-4). Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second fastening element (20) is designed as a securing element (21) for enclosing a torso of a person (3-3). Device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the locking element (21) has a re-closable locking element (20-1) and / or the locking element (21) has an emergency release (25). Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second fastening element (20) comprises at least one joint element (20-2), wherein the at least one joint element (20-2) has at least one degree of rotational freedom between the second fastening element (20) and the second fastening point (60-2). Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first fastening element (10) is designed as a collar (11) for attachment to the neck of an animal (2-2). Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the linen element (60) is one piece. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one handle element (40) is designed as a non-releasable loop (40-1). Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a distance between the first end (61) and the third attachment point (60-3) is selected such that the line element (60) between the first end (61) and the third attachment point (60-3) remains free of tension when the third attachment element (30) is attached to the body of an animal (2-3) and the animal moves its head (2-1). Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that fastening means (80) adapted to the first fastening element (10) are formed between the third fastening element (30) and the at least one handle element (40) for fixing the first fastening element (10) to the leash element (60) when only the third fastening element (30) is used to attach the device (1) to the animal (2).

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