ANIMAL SUPPORT DEVICE.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a support device for animals comprising an inflatable mattress (1) provided with holes (3, 5) intended for the passage of the animals' legs, said inflatable mattress (1) comprising a lateral notch (7, 9) on the height of the inflatable mattress (1) at the level of said holes (3, 5).

Description

ANIMAL SUPPORT DEVICE [1] The present invention relates to a support device for animals, in particular animals suffering from trauma or pathologies resulting in a total or partial inability to move and / or get up. [2] In the practice of veterinary medicine, it is common to encounter pathologies causing total or partial inability to move and get up. The larger and heavier the animal, the more susceptible it is to this type of problem. Indeed, the heavier and bulkier an animal is, the more difficult it will be for it to cope with locomotor difficulties. When it is too tired and / or in too much pain to compensate by putting weight on its other limbs, it ends up lying down and remaining lying down. Since it is unable to get up, it can no longer eat or drink. It therefore weakens considerably; bedsores appear as a result of immobility, and the animal deteriorates despite the care provided. It is often necessary to euthanize the animal. [3] There are various rehabilitation techniques for heavy animals. One well-known method is placing the animal in a pool. This technique is relatively costly in terms of time and energy, and complicated to implement. It is difficult to put an animal weighing 800 kg or more in a pool. This technique requires significant external resources such as lifts, hoists, water temperature control, etc. Furthermore, it is not suitable for all conditions. [4] The harness is still familiar. The principle is simple: to lift the animal using a harness equipped with straps in order to make it walk again. This device is It's quite difficult to use, and the results are often disappointing because it's not suitable for all animals. Adjusting the straps is tricky, and the taut straps that restrain the animal tend to lacerate and sever blood vessels. Furthermore, the risk of the animal falling due to a slipping strap cannot be completely eliminated. [5] The hip clamp, commonly used on cattle, is still known. It consists of two metal hoops connected by a rigid linkage that allows the hoops to be tightened. This technique also requires handling equipment and is traumatic for the animal because its entire weight is lifted by the hips, whereas the pelvis is not designed to withstand traction. Falls are frequent, as are pressure sores and other traumas caused by the clamp. [6] Document GB-2106183 describes an animal lifting device comprising an inflatable bag 1, a stabilizing frame 2, and a harness 3 to be passed over and around the animal. The inflatable bag can take various forms to accommodate the general shape of the animal to be supported, such as a depression designed to receive the udder of a cow. The stabilizing frame is cross-shaped, with arms extending well beyond the base of the inflatable bag to provide stability, particularly when inflated. The harness has two arms, one passing over the animal and the other looping around the front or hind legs. The document further specifies that harness arms can also form loops around an individual leg. This known device, however, presents stability and setup problems. By Elsewhere, the animal is connected to the airbag by a harness. However, fitting a harness to the animal is difficult, especially when the animal is lying down, which is generally the case. Furthermore, the harness tends to injure the animal. [7] Recently, document FR-3039968 disclosed a support device comprising an inflatable mattress with holes for the animal's legs, and a harness designed to be fitted to the animal being treated and connected to the inflatable mattress by straps. However, in practice, it has become apparent that placing the harness on the animal is difficult, as the animal is generally lying down during the procedure. Furthermore, the harness is passed through fragile and sensitive areas of the animal, which are highly vascularized and innervated, and the harness risks injuring the animal. [8] In view of the above, there is a great need for animal support devices which allow animals to be kept in an upright position, while relieving weight-bearing limbs. [9] Another object of the invention is to provide an animal support device which improves the welfare of the animal as well as safety conditions, in the event of partial or total inability to move and / or get up of the animal.

[10] Another object of the invention is to provide a support device which limits the risks of complications related to locomotor disabilities while increasing the chances of recovery of the animal.

[11] Another aim is to provide an animal sustenance device, which allows the administration of care, and which facilitates the movement of the animal either by itself or by an operator.

[12] According to the invention, the support device comprises an inflatable mattress with holes for the passage of the animals' paws, said inflatable mattress having a lateral notch on the height of the inflatable mattress at the level of said holes.

[13] The inflatable mattress can be used with or without straps to the animal being treated. In the case of strapping the animal to the support device, attachment points, for example eyelets, should be provided on the upper surface of the inflatable mattress, near a straight line connecting the lateral ends on the same side of the perforations; that is to say, in fact, along the flanks of the animal on which the inflatable mattress is placed.

[14] Alternatively, one can simply provide one or more belts attached to the inflatable mattress, which can then be tightened around the animal to be treated.

[15] The inflatable mattress of the invention advantageously comprises, at the front, a means for attaching a collar passed around the neck of the animal being treated. This means of attaching the inflatable mattress to the animal being treated makes it possible to keep the animal and the mattress aligned, despite the animal's movements.

[16] The device of the invention is distinguished by its ease of use: the uninflated mattress is slipped over the reclining animal and simply inflated to the desired height. The use of side valves or inflation valves allows the mattress to be inflated while maintaining the animal's balance, even without straps, by controlling the inflation via the various valves.

[17] In some cases, the use of straps may be preferable, making it easier to right the animal being treated. The straps connecting the animal to the inflatable mattress allow it to right itself easily. For example, in the case of a 500 kg recumbent animal, two people are sufficient to lift and safely strap it down, without the use of a tractor or lifting equipment. The operation takes approximately 10 minutes, and once upright on the inflatable mattress, the animal is in a comfortable position requiring only regular, but not continuous, monitoring.

[18] Thanks to the presence of lateral slits along the height of the inflatable mattress, it is easy to remove the mattress after use. With prior art inflatable mattresses, it is necessary to deflate them completely to allow the animal to move on the deflated mattress on the ground, with the risk of damaging the inflatable mattress casing. The inflatable mattress of the invention can be removed laterally after partial deflation, with the animal standing. Partial deflation allows the faces or lips of each slit to separate, enabling the animal's legs to pass through while standing. When inflated, the faces or lips of the slits are brought together by the pressure inside the inflatable mattress. If necessary, means for joining the faces of the slits, such as tightening straps, can be provided.

[19] The device of the invention can be used regardless of the location of the pathology, whether in the forelimbs or hindlimbs, but also regardless of the species, bovine or equine, and regardless of the sex.

[20] At a time when increasing importance is being placed on animal welfare, the use of such a device makes perfect sense. It allows the animal to remain in a physiological position with real comfort. Handling is reduced and the resulting risks are limited.

[21] Such a device allows for genuine, long-term rehabilitation, with a succession of daily improvements leading back to a normal state. When one considers that in 99% of cases an animal left lying down for more than three days is euthanized, this device represents real progress.

[22] For the comfort and well-being of the animal, it is advantageous that the perforations through the inflatable mattress have suitable shapes. Advantageously, the perforation for the front legs is essentially rectangular or elliptical. The perforation for the hind legs is advantageously adapted to provide space for the teats of female animals and / or the sexual organs of male animals, while allowing limb movement and simultaneously offering effective support for the belly, hips, and buttocks. Indeed, some limb movement must remain possible to allow the animal to stand up.

[23] According to an advantageous execution form, the piercing intended for the hind limbs has an essentially diamond shape. This piercing form is suitable for both sexes; on the one hand, it helps to prevent lesions in the area of ​​the udders; on the other hand, it also constitutes an advantage for males by allowing them to urinate, without which they can suffer renal blockage, kidney stones or bladder rupture.

[24] According to an advantageous embodiment of the device of the invention, it may include eyelets for straps which allow the inflatable mattress loaded with an animal to be lifted. The straps pass in particular over the sides and under the inflated mattress.

[25] Eyelets can also be provided on the front face, allowing the passage of straps for pulling the device, including the animal. This arrangement allows animals to be moved even when housed in the device of the invention.

[26] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the ground surface area of ​​the hole or holes is greater than the surface area of ​​the hole or holes on the upper surface of the mattress, i.e., the entry point for the animal's legs. This embodiment facilitates the animal's movement under its own power.

[27] Advantageously, the volume of the front part (viewed from the perspective in which the animal is supported) of the device of the invention is at least equal to the rear part of the device, preferably larger than the latter. In fact, 60% of the weight of a bovine or equine animal rests on its front legs and only 40% on its hind legs. In order to guarantee the animal's balance, particularly during standing, the device must be able to support the various loads without endangering the animal, both during the application and during the recovery period, even under the typical living conditions of the animals in question, such as, for example, a sloping pasture.

[28] The invention will be described in more detail below, with reference to the figures in which:

[29] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the inflatable mattress of the inversion device; and

[30] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a device supporting a bovine.

[31] In the figures, identical reference signs refer to identical or similar elements.

[32] Figure 1 shows an inflatable mattress in its inflated state 1, which has two openings 3 and 5 for the passage of the legs of the animals intended to be carried by the device. Opening 3 is for the front legs of an animal to be treated, and opening 5 for the hind legs. Note that the front opening 3 is essentially rectangular, and that the opening 5 is diamond-shaped, which frees the udder or sexual organs and allows some movement of the hind legs during standing. The inflatable mattress also has lateral notches 7 and 9 along its height. The mattress can be inflated using a valve 8, for example, which can be connected to a pressurized air generator.

[33] The volume of the front part 11 is: greater than the volume of the rear part 13 so that the device can support the animal in a balanced way.

[34] The inflatable mattress 1 further advantageously includes a belt 21 attached to the inflatable mattress at the attachment point 22. This belt allows the inflatable mattress to be tied to the animal to be treated.

[35] Furthermore, a means of attaching a collar 23 has also been provided which allows the mattress to be tied to the animal in complete balance.

[36] In the embodiment represented, additional emergency relief valves 17, 18 and 19 are provided, allowing the pressure to be released quickly if needed.

[37] Figure 2 shows how the animal to be treated is supported by the device of the invention. In order to connect the inflatable mattress to the animal, eyelets 31, 33, 35, and 37 are provided, alternatively, on the upper surface of the inflatable mattress 1, on each side of the animal, approximately on a line connecting the lateral ends of the front and rear perforations, along the flanks of the animal to be supported. These eyelets are intended to receive straps 32, 34, 66, and 38 which pass over the animal's back, securing the device of the invention to the animal while reducing the risk of injury.

[38] To allow the entire assembly, animal plus inflated mattress, to be lifted, straps can be passed under the mattress and joined above it at a lifting point. Eyelets 41, 43 and 45, on each side of the mattress, facilitate the passage of straps 42, 44 and 46.

[39] If necessary, the inflatable mattress can also be deflated to facilitate the movement of the animal suspended on it. In this case, it is advantageous for the material forming the vertical walls of the inflatable mattress to be elastic or retractable using springs or similar mechanisms. As a result, the mattress is suspended from the animal by means of straps or one or more belts; the animal gains freedom of movement; the mattress can be reinflated at any time to support and relieve the animal.

[40] To free the animal from its inflatable mattress, simply undo the straps or belts and collars, Partially deflate the mattress and remove it laterally. Partial deflation allows the edges of notches 7 and 9 to spread apart when the animal's paws pass through.

[41] It is understood that the dispcsirif has dimensions such that it can be used on the greatest possible number of animals. Its width can advantageously be 180 cm in order to fit into a standard cattle chute or into barn corridors or stables.

[42] A strap can also be provided at the front of the device of the invention in order to be able to tow the device loaded with an animal.

[43] In order to allow the use of the device of the invention on the greatest number of animals which are distinguished in particular by size, it is advantageous to provide the inflatable mattress in two stages of inflatable chambers.

[44] The inversion will be better understood by reading specific application examples. It is understood that these examples are given by way of illustration and are far from being exhaustive.

[45] Example 1 Milk fever:

[46] The cow suffers from hypocalcemia, particularly following calving. She is unable to stand, staggers, and eventually lies down, unable to get up. Unsuccessful attempts to right her result in fractures, wounds, and nerve and muscle damage. The device of the invention allows the animal to be placed safely while receiving the necessary veterinary care, thus preventing complications and reducing pain.

[47] Example 2: Hypophosphatemia:

[48] ​​Phosphorus deficiency is very similar to the hypocalcemia mentioned above and is one of its common complications. The advantage of the device of the invention is as described in Example 1. Since this type of condition often occurs in the summer, when animals are in pasture, it is important to be able to transfer them to a more suitable location for treatment. The device of the invention allows the animal to be lifted onto the mattress or the mattress to be pulled out when the animal is on it. If it is desired to prevent the animal from touching the ground with its paws, it is sufficient to increase the inflation of the mattress.

[49] Example 3: Hypomagnesia: this is a tetanic syndrome in cows; the device of the invention makes it possible to overcome it in a similar way to what has been described above.

[50] Example 4: Traumatic births: [S1] During birthing, inflammation of the genital tract, pelvis, and nerves is common, resulting in paralysis of the hind limbs that can take weeks to resolve. In such situations, the device of the invention allows the animal to be maintained in a physiological position while motor recovery occurs, preventing complications such as severe numbness of the limbs or the development of pressure sores.

[52] Example 5: Sciatica syndrome:

[53] This is a traumatic pathology found in large animals that tend to slip on slippery surfaces by spreading their limbs wide. hind limbs; resulting in paralysis of one or both hind limbs. The device of the invention allows the animal to recover for the time necessary for its recovery.

[54] Example 6: Septicemic shocks:

[55] These are pathologies commonly encountered in livestock farms in the Northern Hemisphere, following mastitis or metritis (uterine infection), and cause intense stress in the animal. Even if the disease can be stopped, the complications are significant: hypocalcemia, the development of pressure sores and various wounds; and it is often necessary to euthanize the animal. As explained in the preceding examples, the device of the invention makes it possible to shelter the animal and provide the necessary care while avoiding complications.

[56] Example 7: fractures:

[57] Unfortunately, some fractures cannot be healed with a cast or splint. This device would allow the injured animal to remain in a physiological position for the time necessary for bone resorption, whereas euthanasia is often the only solution.

[58] Example 7: Laminitis:

[59] This is an acute inflammation of the foot, extremely painful, which can lead to rapid euthanasia due to the intensity of the pain. The device of the invention makes it possible to maintain the animal in a physiological position without it touching the ground with its aching limbs, while the inflammation is being controlled.

[60] Example 8: Osteoarthritis:

[61] This is a degenerative disease of the joint tissues, exacerbated by attacks of varying length and intensity. Treatment generally involves the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs. In this case as well, the device of the invention allows the animal to be relieved for the time necessary to obtain the effects of the treatment, and to limit complications due to prolonged recumbency.

[62] Example 9: Transport of injured animals:

[63] The transport of injured animals often takes place in difficult and uncomfortable conditions for the animal, frequently causing trauma. The device of the invention makes it possible to reduce the stress experienced by the animal as well as the injuries associated with this type of situation. Example 10: VOST-operatory conditions:

[64] After general anesthesia, the recovery phase is particularly difficult to manage, especially due to the animals' lack of balance. The device of the invention helps to limit complications.

[65] Example 11: Restraint on the ground:

[66] It is common in the life of a field practitioner to be called out for horses with colic. During these interventions, the practitioner is obliged to carry out a specific examination which is extremely dangerous, given the risk of the horse kicking.

[67] Example 12: VOST-operatory conditions:

[68] Particularly in the case of horses, after surgery, whether minor or major, in a clinic or in the field, the getting-up phase is generally critical. The horse is still under the effects of anesthetics and, despite not yet having fully recovered its abilities, will attempt to get up on its own. It risks injuring itself, with complications that could lead to euthanasia. The device of the invention makes it possible to reduce these risks.

Claims

Claims 1. Animal support device comprising an inflatable mattress (1) provided with a hole (3) intended for the passage of the front legs of the animal to be supported and a hole (5) intended for the passage of the hind legs of the animal to be supported, said inflatable mattress (1) comprising a lateral notch (7, 9) on the height of the inflatable mattress (1) at the level of said holes (3, 5).

2. Animal support device according to claim 1 comprising one or more belts (21) fixed to a fixing point (22) on the upper face of said inflatable mattress (1).

3. Animal support device according to claim 1 characterized in that the inflatable mattress (1) has attachment points (31, 33, 35, 37) on the upper face of the inflatable mattress, close to a straight line connecting the lateral ends of the same side of the holes (3, 5).

4. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at the front an attachment means (23) for a collar.

5. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hole (3) intended for the front legs is essentially rectangular or elliptical in shape.

6. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hole (5) intended for the hind legs has a cross-section of essentially diamond shape.

7. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises eyelets (41, 43, 45) for the passage of straps (42, 44, 46) for lifting the inflatable mattress, which pass on the sides and under the inflatable mattress.

8. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises eyelets on the front face, for the passage of traction straps.

9. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the volume of its front part (11) is at least equal to that of the rear part (13), preferably greater than the latter.

10. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises emergency discharge valves (17, 18, 19).

11. Animal support device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable mattress consists of two levels of inflatable chambers.

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