Pet harness and corresponding dog carrying backpack that can be held and carried by a dog

Abstract

To provide a pet harness which enables a pet owner to take a pet with him / her and at the same time participate in activities which the pet cannot take part in, and a corresponding dog carrying backpack which can be held and carried by the dog.SOLUTION: A system for walking and carrying a pet includes a harness configured to be worn by the pet, a clip-on bag carried by the pet that is selectively attachable to and detachable from the harness, and a pet carrying backpack 100 configured to be stored within the clip-on bag carried by the pet. The pet carrying backpack includes a pet compartment configured to carry a pet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Many people enjoy keeping pets for the companionship, assistance, and / or friendship they provide. Pets, naturally, require a significant amount of time and care from their owners to ensure they are well cared for. Sometimes, pet owners want to travel, hike, or participate in other activities that their pets cannot due to their size, age, or various health issues. Also, many pet owners prefer not to leave their pets in the care of a friend or at a commercial pet care facility while participating in such activities. Therefore, such pet owners need a solution that allows them to take their pet friends with them and simultaneously participate in fun activities that their pets would not otherwise be able to participate in. Summary of the Invention

[0002]

[0002] According to one example, a pet carrying backpack includes a bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel, and a left side panel joined together to form a bag with an open top. The open top includes a collar forming an opening configured to allow the head of an animal disposed within the bag to protrude through the open top. The collar may be adjustable to support animals of different sizes and to allow easy loading and unloading of the animal.

[0003]

[0003] The pet carrying backpack may further include shoulder straps disposed on and extending from the front panel, and leg holes disposed on the front of the backpack body above the shoulder straps and below the collar. The leg holes can accommodate the animal's feet or legs. A pet carrying platform may be disposed within the bag above the bottom panel and below the open top. The pet carrying platform may thus form within the bag a storage compartment below the pet carrying platform and a pet compartment above the pet carrying platform.

[0004] In another example, a pet carrier backpack can include at least one contouring strap configured to shape the bag. A vertical zipper can be disposed within the rear panel. The zipper facilitates access to the pet compartment. The contouring strap can include at least one lumbar support strap disposed on the backpack across the vertical zipper. The lumbar support strap can extend across the back panel and attach to the backpack at a seam between the back panel and the side panel.

[0005] In one example, the at least one contouring strap includes at least one adjustment strap disposed on at least one of the right side panel and the left side panel. The at least one adjustment strap may be oriented diagonally relative to a seam between the front panel and the right side panel and / or the left side panel. The angle of the diagonal orientation of the at least one adjustment strap may be between 25 degrees and 65 degrees.

[0006] In some examples, the pet carry platform may be inclined upward from the front panel to the rear panel, and the angle of the pet carry platform relative to a direction perpendicular to the front panel may be between 10 degrees and 30 degrees.

[0007] In some examples, the pet carrier backpack includes a waist strap that can be connected to the bag adjacent to the storage compartment.

[0008]

[0008] In some examples, there may be a set consisting of a plurality of pet carry backpacks, wherein a first pet carry platform of a first pet carry backpack in the set is disposed a first distance from a first bottom panel of the first pet carry backpack, and a second pet carry platform of a second pet carry backpack in the set is disposed a second distance from a second bottom panel of the second pet carry backpack, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

[0009] In another example, a pet carrier backpack includes a bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel, and a left side panel joined together to form a bag having an open top. The open top includes a collar forming an opening configured to allow the head of an animal disposed within the bag to protrude through the open top. The collar may be adjustable.

[0010] The backpack further includes shoulder straps disposed on the face panel and extending from the front panel, and leg holes disposed on the front of the backpack body above the shoulder straps and below the collar. The leg holes accommodate the animal's feet or legs. A harness may also be included, the harness configured to be worn by the animal and removably connectable to the bag.

[0011] The harness can include a chest portion having an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism can be configured to attach to a front panel of the bag and separate from the front panel of the pack. In some cases, the attachment mechanism attaches to the front panel of the bag between the leg holes. The harness can also include a storage bag clip configured to receive a storage bag worn by the animal.

[0012] In some examples, an L-shaped access zipper may be disposed on the rear panel, which allows access to the bag.

[0013]

[0013] In another example, a pet carrier backpack includes a bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel, and a left side panel joined together to form a bag with an open top. The open top includes a collar forming an opening configured to allow an animal's head disposed within the bag to protrude through the open top. The collar may be adjustable. Shoulder straps may be disposed on the face panels and extend from the front panel, and leg holes may be disposed on the front of the backpack body above the shoulder straps and below the collar. The leg holes accommodate the animal's feet or legs.

[0014] The backpack may further include at least one pet pen portion disposed on one of the front panel and the back panel, the pet pen portion being deployable to extend from a stowed position to a deployed position to form at least a portion of the pet pen.

[0015]

[0015] The at least one pet pen portion may include a front pen portion disposed on the front panel and a rear pen portion disposed on the rear panel. The front pen portion may have a front pen release zipper that allows the front pen portion to be deployed from a stored position to a deployed position when the zipper is opened, and the rear pen portion includes a rear pen release zipper that allows the rear pen portion to be deployed from the stored position to the deployed position when the zipper is opened.

[0016] The rear panel can include at least one access zipper, which can be disposed between the rear pen release zipper and a seam between the rear panel and at least one of the right side panel and the left side panel.

[0017]

[0017] The at least one pet pen portion may include a mesh material that allows ventilation and visibility of the pet pen. The backpack may further include a base pad having a bottom portion disposed within or adjacent to the bottom panel and at least one side portion disposed within the at least one pet pen portion. The at least one side portion provides shock cushioning adjacent to the bottom portion when the at least one pet pen portion is in the deployed position.

[0018] According to another example of the present disclosure, there is provided a system for walking and carrying a pet. The system may include a harness configured to be worn by the pet, a clip-on bag carried by the pet that is selectively attachable to and detachable from the harness, and a pet carrying backpack configured to be stored within the clip-on bag carried by the pet. The pet carrying backpack may include a pet compartment configured to carry the pet.

[0019] In some examples, the harness can include an attachment mechanism configured to attach to and separate from the front panel of the pet carry backpack. The attachment mechanism can be disposed on a chest portion of the harness.

[0020] In some examples, the system can include a pad disposed within the clip-on bag and configured to cushion the pet from the pet carrier backpack stored within the clip-on bag. The pad can also be disposed within the pet compartment and configured to support the pet seated within the pet compartment.

[0021]

[0021] In some examples, the pet carry backpack can include shoulder straps, an open top, and leg holes disposed on the backpack between the shoulder straps and the open top. The harness can be a chest portion. The chest portion can include an attachment mechanism, which can be configured to be attached to and separate from the front panel of the pet carry backpack. The attachment mechanism can be attached to the front panel between the leg holes.

[0022]

[0022] In one example, the pet carry backpack may include a bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel, and a left side panel connected together to form a bag with an open top. The open top may include a collar forming an opening configured to allow a pet's head disposed within the bag to protrude through the open top. The collar may be adjustable. The backpack may further include shoulder straps disposed on and extending from the front panel, and foot holes disposed on the front of the backpack body above the shoulder straps and below the collar. The foot holes may be configured to accommodate the pet's feet or legs. The clip-on bag may be selectively attachable to and detachable from the pet carry backpack.

[0023] In one example of the present disclosure, a method for walking and carrying a pet is provided, the method can include fitting a harness to a pet, attaching a clip-on bag to the harness such that the pet carries the clip-on bag supported by the harness while walking, detaching the pet carrier backpack from the clip-on bag, and inserting the pet into the pet carrier backpack such that the pet is carried in the pet carrier backpack.

[0024] In some examples, inserting the pet into the pet carry backpack can further include attaching a harness to the pet carry backpack via an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism can be disposed on a chest portion of the harness. A pad can be disposed within the clip-on bag so as to be adjacent to the pet when the clip-on bag is supported by the harness while the pet is walking. Inserting the pet into the pet carry backpack can also include removing a pad from the clip-on bag and placing the pad within the pet carry backpack so that the pet sits on the pad while being carried in the pet carry backpack.

[0025]

[0025] In some examples, the pet carry backpack may include shoulder straps, an open top, and leg holes disposed on the backpack between the shoulder straps and the open top. Inserting the pet into the pet carry backpack may further include guiding the pet's feet or legs through the leg holes. The harness may include a chest portion, and the chest portion may include an attachment mechanism. Inserting the pet into the pet carry backpack may further include attaching the attachment mechanism to a front panel of the pet carry backpack. The attachment mechanism may attach to the front panel between the leg holes.

[0026]

[0026] In some examples, the method may further include removing the clip-on bag from the harness and attaching the clip-on bag to a pet carrier backpack.

[0027] In another example of the present disclosure, a system for walking and carrying a pet includes a pet carrying compartment, a pet carrying backpack for carrying the pet within the pet carrying compartment, and a harness configured to be worn by the pet, wherein the harness can include an attachment mechanism operable to be attached to and detached from the pet carrying compartment.

[0028] In some examples, the pet carrier backpack includes shoulder straps, an open top, and leg holes disposed on the backpack between the shoulder straps and the open top, and the harness includes a chest portion. The chest portion can include an attachment mechanism. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 shows a rear perspective view of the pet carrier backpack of FIG. 1. [Figure 3A] An example of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack for a certain size pet is shown, with a matching waist strap. [Figure 3B] Shown are examples of forward-facing pet carrier backpacks for different sized pets that fit the waist straps. [Figure 3C] 3C shows a side cutaway view of the backpack of FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIG. [Figure 4A] 10 illustrates a rear view of another example forward-facing pet carrier backpack. [Figure 4B] 4B shows a side view of the backpack of FIG. 4A. [Figure 5] FIG. 4C shows an enlarged view of the top of the front panel of the pet carrier backpack shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates a forward-facing pet carrier backpack with a hood and food storage compartment, according to one example. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates a forward-facing pet carrier backpack with a hood and food storage compartment, according to one example. [Figure 6C] 1 illustrates a forward-facing pet carrier backpack with a hood and food storage compartment, according to one example. [Figure 6D] 1 illustrates a forward-facing pet carrier backpack with a hood and food storage compartment, according to one example. [Figure 7A] 1 illustrates the interior of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack with a harness, according to one example. [Figure 7B] Another example of a harness that fits onto a pet carrier backpack is shown. [Figure 7C] Another example of a harness that fits onto a pet carrier backpack is shown. [Figure 7D] Another example of a harness that fits onto a pet carrier backpack is shown. [Figure 8A] 1 illustrates an example of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack that can be converted into a travel pet pen, according to one example. [Figure 8B] 1 illustrates an example of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack that can be converted into a travel pet pen, according to one example. [Figure 8C] 1 illustrates an example of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack that can be converted into a travel pet pen, according to one example. [Figure 8D] 1 illustrates an example of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack that can be converted into a travel pet pen, according to one example. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a base pad for a convertible pet backpack and pen, according to an example. [Figure 10]1 shows another example of a pet harness that can be used with a pet carrier backpack. [Figure 11A] 1 shows a pet wearing a pet harness and carrying a clip-on bag. [Figure 11B] Shows a pet being carried in a pet carrier backpack. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.In the drawings, like reference numbers designate corresponding parts throughout the various views.

[0031]

[0041] Forward-facing pet carrier backpack

[0042] Figure 1 shows a front perspective view of a forward-facing pet carrying backpack according to one example of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 shows a rear perspective view of the pet carrying backpack of Figure 1. Pet carrying backpack 100 is formed from a front panel 104, a back panel 102, two side panels 103, and a bottom panel 105. Panels 102, 103, 104, and 105 can define the backpack body and a pet carrying compartment within the backpack body.

[0032]

[0043] The front panel 104 includes shoulder straps 106 attached thereto to help support the backpack 100 on a user's shoulders. In some examples, a chest strap 122 can be provided on the shoulder straps 106. An upper portion of the front panel 104 above the shoulder straps 106 includes foot holes 124. The foot holes 124 allow a pet riding on the backpack 100 to face forward, i.e., in the same direction as the user wearing the backpack 100. In some examples, the foot holes 124 can be lined with a padded elastic liner 126 to increase the comfort of the pet while its feet extend through the foot holes 124.

[0033]

[0044] The side panels 103 may be at least partially formed from a mesh material 114. The mesh material 114 allows air to ventilate the interior of the backpack 100 to regulate the body temperature of a pet riding inside the backpack 100. The side panels 103 may further include one or more pockets 116, where the pockets 116 are also at least partially formed from a mesh material so as not to obstruct airflow through the mesh 114 of the side panels 103. The side panels 103 may further include adjustment straps 118 that can be tightened or loosened to adjust the size of the interior of the backpack 100 to fit a pet riding (housed) inside the backpack 100. In one example, the adjustment straps 118 may be oriented at an angle relative to the side panels 103. For example, the adjustment straps 118 may be oriented at an angle between 25 degrees and 65 degrees relative to the vertical edge 103a of the side panels 103. More preferably, the angle of the adjustment straps 118 relative to the vertical edge 103a of the side panels 103 is between 35 degrees and 55 degrees.

[0034]

[0045] The back panel 102 includes an access zipper 108 that extends to the top of the backpack 100. When the access zipper 108 is open, it allows wide, unobstructed access to the interior of the backpack 100, allowing for easy loading and unloading of a pet housed within the backpack 100. Pet lumbar support straps 109 are provided and attached to the back panel 102 on either side of the zipper 108. These provide additional security by reducing the weight of the pet against the zipper 108. The pet lumbar support straps 109 provide additional lumbar support for a pet riding within the backpack 100. The interior contour of the backpack 100 can also be adjusted via the pet lumbar support straps 109.

[0035]

[0046] In some examples, the lumbar support straps 109 are sewn to the back panel 102. In other examples, the lumbar support straps 109 can stretch and be attached at the seam 102a between the back panel 102 and the side panel 103. This increases the surface coverage and stability provided by the lumbar support straps 109.

[0036]

[0047] A collar 110 is provided on the top of the backpack 100 above each of the front, back, and side panels 102, 103, 104. The collar 110 is adjustable by means of a collar adjustment strap 112, which allows the backpack 100 to fit around the pet's neck and prevents the pet from jumping out of the backpack 100 during use.

[0037]

[0048] When a pet is placed in the backpack 100, the pet sits on the bag's bottom panel 105. The bottom panel 105 can be made from a thick, padded material that provides a sturdy and comfortable seat for the pet.

[0038]

[0049] Other features of the forward-facing pet carrier backpack may also be provided, such features being discussed in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Nos. 15 / 821,539 and 16 / 547,372, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0039]

[0050] Backpack for different sized pets with torso straps

[0051] Forward-facing pet carrier backpacks preferably come in different sizes to accommodate pets of different sizes. For larger pets, the length, width, and height of the backpack are larger than backpack designs for larger pets. This, of course, is to ensure that the pet fits comfortably within the backpack. For example, if the height of backpack 100 is too long for a given pet, the pet will not be able to sit on bottom panel 105 of backpack 100 with its legs through leg holes 134 and its head above collar 112. Therefore, the pet backpack must be small enough so that the pet can be comfortably accommodated in the backpack.

[0040]

[0052] Many backpack users prefer backpack designs with waist straps. Particularly in applications where the user will be carrying the backpack for extended periods of time, waist straps allow the user to transfer most of the backpack's weight from the user's shoulders to the user's hips. This makes the backpack much easier to carry, especially when carrying heavier loads or wearing the backpack for extended periods of time.

[0041]

[0053] However, if a user of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack has a smaller pet, the backpack is typically sized so that a bottom panel, such as bottom panel 105 of backpack 100, sits too far up the user's torso. In this case, the torso straps may not fit with backpack 100.

[0042]

[0054] 3A and 3B show examples of forward-facing pet carrier backpacks for different sized pets that fit waist straps. FIG. 3C is a side cutaway view of the backpack of FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown in FIG. 3A, forward-facing pet carrier backpack 300a includes several features similar to backpack 100. For example, backpack 300a includes a front panel 302 with an access zipper 308a and pet waist support straps 309. The top of the backpack has a collar 310 with a collar adjustment strap 312. Backpack 300a can optionally have a side pocket 316.

[0043]

[0055] The backpack 300a is fitted with a torso strap 324. The torso strap 324 may be similar to other bags with torso straps. For example, the torso strap 324 may include a pocket 326 configured to hold small items for easy access by the user. The torso strap 324 is configured to be strapped around the torso of a user to transfer the weight of the backpack 300a to the user's hips.

[0044]

[0056] Backpack 300a includes waist straps 324 and is also precisely sized for a particular size pet. To accomplish this, backpack 300a includes a lower storage compartment 329a that is separated from the rest of the interior of backpack 300a. The separation is created by placing a thick, padded pet sheet 331a inside the backpack (see FIG. 3C). Thick, padded sheet 331a is not located at the bottom of the bag to define bottom panel 105 as in backpack 100 (FIGS. 1 and 2). Thick, padded sheet 331a is disposed above lower storage compartment 329a and separates it from the rest of the interior of backpack 300a, which holds the carried pet. A lower zipper 330a allows access to lower storage compartment 330a.

[0045]

[0057] By providing thick padded sheet 331a, backpack 300a can be sized for a particular size pet while still allowing waist straps 324 to be long enough to extend comfortably around the user's torso. This configuration can be used to provide a backpack that accommodates several different sized pets while simultaneously maintaining compatibility with waist straps 324.

[0046]

[0058] FIG. 3B shows backpack 300b. Backpack 300b is similar to backpack 300a, except that backpack 300b fits smaller pets than backpack 300a. Backpack 300b also includes a lower storage compartment 329b. However, lower storage compartment 329b is larger than lower storage compartment 329a. Lower zipper 330b, which provides access to lower storage compartment 329b, is positioned higher on backpack 300b, and access zipper 308b is shorter. This is because thickly padded sheet 331b (see FIG. 3) is positioned higher within backpack 300b to accommodate smaller pets than backpack 300a.

[0047]

[0059] 3C, thick padded sheets 331a, 331b, 331c can be positioned in any desired location within backpack 300. This changes the relative size of the pet interior and lower storage compartment 329a, allowing backpack 300 to be sized to carry different sized pets while still fitting torso strap 324. Thus, multiple backpacks can be provided to accommodate different sized pets. Backpacks for each size pet can have padded sheets 331a, 331b, 331c positioned at different distances from the bottom of the bag.

[0048]

[0060] The backpack 300 can be modified in various ways. For example, the backpack 300 can include an internal frame. The internal frame can also extend through the thickly padded sheets 331a, 331b, 331c to provide additional rigidity and comfort for the pet and the user. In some examples, the lower storage compartments 329a, 329b can be subdivided to include multiple separate storage areas or pockets. In other examples, the placement of the lower zippers 330a, 330b on the bags 300a, 300b can be in the same location across different size bags for design consistency.

[0049]

[0061] Inclined Pet Support Surface

[0062] It has been found that many backpack users prefer to wear backpacks that are too loose, as they prefer straps that are loose enough that they can be quickly fastened and unfastened with little effort. Nevertheless, wearing a backpack that is too loose can cause problems when wearing a pet carrier backpack.

[0050]

[0063] When a pet carrier backpack is worn too loosely, the pet's weight causes the backpack to sag. This causes the back of the backpack to be lower than the front. When the back of the backpack is lower than the front, the bottom of the backpack is not flat. Instead, the bottom of the backpack slopes downward, causing a pet sitting on the bottom of the backpack to be biased away from the user. This shifts the pet's weight toward the back panel of the backpack, reducing the pet's comfort and sense of security.

[0051]

[0064] Figure 4A shows a rear view of a forward-facing pet carrying backpack according to another example of the present disclosure, and Figure 4B shows a side view of the backpack of Figure 4A. Forward-facing pet carrying backpack 400 is formed from a front panel 404, a back panel 402, two side panels 403, and a bottom panel 440. In this example, the backpack is configured such that bottom panel 440 slopes upward from front panel 404 to back panel 402, as indicated by angle α.

[0052]

[0065] The sloped bottom panel 400 ensures a comfortable and safe ride for pets carried within the backpack 400. Even if a user wears the backpack's 400 shoulder straps 406 too loosely, the pet's weight allows it to sit comfortably against the backpack's 400 front panel 404. The optimal angle α of the bottom panel 440 may be approximately 20 degrees. Preferably, the angle is between 5 and 45 degrees, more preferably between 10 and 30 degrees. While FIGS. 4A and 4B show a sloped support surface incorporated into the bottom panel 400, it should also be noted that a sloped support surface can be applied to an internal pet support surface, such as the padded seats 331a, 331b, and 331c shown above in FIG. 3C.

[0053]

[0066] L-shaped zipper

[0067] Backpack 400 includes an access zipper 408. As shown in FIG. 4A , access zipper 408 differs from access zipper 108 in that access zipper 408 extends along the sides and bottom of back panel 402 of backpack 400. Access zipper 408 allows substantially the entire front panel 402 to fold up and away from backpack 400, thereby allowing unobstructed access to the interior of backpack 400. This “L-shaped” access zipper 408 facilitates easy ingress and egress of a pet carried within backpack 400.

[0054]

[0068] For example, a pet may be more comfortably accommodated within backpack 400 without the user having to hold the pet and lift it into the backpack. This can be done by placing backpack 400 on a flat surface with front panel 404 facing downwards. Access zipper 408 can be fully opened, allowing front panel 402 to fold down and away from backpack 400. With front panel 402 folded down, the pet can be guided to sit or lie down inside the backpack. With the pet in place, the front panel can be returned to its original position by closing access zipper 408 around the pet.

[0055]

[0069] The backpack 400 further includes pet lumbar support straps 409. Similar to the support straps 109, these straps are connected on either side of the access zipper 408 to reduce stress on the access zipper 408 and to accurately size the backpack 400 around the pet.

[0056]

[0070] The "L-shaped" access zipper 408 provides other benefits. For example, because the vertical portion of the access zipper 408 is adjacent to one of the side panels 403, the zipper does not rest against the pet's spine during use. This makes the backpack 400 more comfortable for the pet, allowing the pet to spend more time comfortably inside the backpack 400.

[0057]

[0071] Adjustable oval foot holes

[0072] FIG. 5 shows a close-up view of the top of the front panel of the pet carrier backpack shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. As shown in FIG. 5, the front panel 404 of the backpack 400 includes paw holes 424. Unlike the paw holes 124, the paw holes 424 are formed in or cut out of the front panel 404 so that they are open and rounded, forming an oval or pointed oval shape. This shape prevents the paw holes 424 from irritating the pet's front legs. To provide additional comfort, the paw holes are surrounded by a padded, elastic liner 426.

[0058]

[0073] Paw holes 424 may be adjustable so that backpack 400 can accommodate pets with different sized front legs. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, buttons 450 and corresponding button holes 525 may be added to front panel 404 of backpack 400 to surround each paw hole 424. If a user wants to make a paw hole 424 smaller, they simply close the top of paw hole 424 by fastening button 450 within paw hole 452.

[0059]

[0074] Of course, other fasteners besides buttons can be used, such as snap fasteners, magnetic fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc. Additionally, more than one set of fasteners can be placed next to each leg hole 424. The fasteners can be placed adjacent to the top of the leg hole 424 or the bottom of the leg hole 424 to adjust the size of the leg hole 424.

[0060]

[0075] Hood and storage compartment

[0076] 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D show views of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack with a hood and food storage compartment, according to an example. FIG. 6A shows a rear view of backpack 400, with a hood attached. The hood is stored in a hood storage compartment 454 on the upper portion of back panel 402. An L-shaped zipper 408 provides sufficient space on back panel 402 to position food storage compartment 454. A zipper 456 is provided to control access to food storage compartment 454.

[0061]

[0077] As shown in Figure 6B, the top portion of the front panel 404 has two snap fasteners 458. As will be described below, the snap fasteners 458 facilitate placement of the hood over the pet during use.

[0062]

[0078] 6C shows a rear view of backpack 400 with hood 460 deployed. Hood 460 can be deployed out of hood storage compartment 454 by opening zipper 456. Hood 460 can be permanently attached to backpack 400 inside hood storage compartment 454, such as by stitching.

[0063]

[0079] 6D shows a front view of backpack 400, with hood 460 shown in an unfolded position. Hood 460 includes a front opening 462 through which a pet can see out while hood 460 is in use. The bottom of opening 462 is provided with two tabs 464 that extend around the top of front panel 404. Tabs 464 include snap fasteners 466 that correspond to snap fasteners 458 for attaching tabs 464 to front panel 404, holding hood 460 in place. In this manner, shade or rain / snow protection can be provided for a pet riding in backpack 400.

[0064]

[0080] Although snap fasteners 458 and 456 are described and illustrated here, other fasteners such as buttons, magnetic fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc. may also be used. Additionally, in some examples, hood 460 may not be permanently attached to backpack 400. Instead, hood 460 may fasten to backpack 400 via a fastener or zipper.

[0065]

[0081] Harness

[0082] 7A shows the interior of a forward-facing pet carrier backpack according to one example of the present disclosure. Here, backpack 400 is shown with zipper 408 open and back panel 402 folded away from backpack 400, exposing the interior of backpack 400. A harness 470 is attached to backpack 400 between leg holes 424. More specifically, harness 470 is attached such that chest portion 471 of harness 470 is positioned between arm holes 424.

[0066]

[0083] The harness 470 can be permanently attached, such as by being sewn into the design of the backpack 400, via seams 476. In other examples, the harness 470 can be removable to be worn by the pet outside and inside the backpack 400. When the harness 470 is removed, it can be placed on the pet before placing the pet inside the backpack 400. In one example of a removable harness 470, the harness 470 can have a plastic swivel fastener that extends through a hole in the front panel 404 of the backpack that twists to lock the harness in place. However, this is just one example of a connection mechanism, and other connection mechanisms can be used.

[0067]

[0084] The harness 470 can be configured with two upper attachment straps 472 and two lower attachment straps 474. The upper attachment straps 472 extend across the pet's neck / shoulder area and are fastened together, such as using a buckle-type fastener, snaps, pinch clips, hook-and-loop fasteners, or any other desired fastener. The lower attachment straps 474 extend under the pet's front legs and around the torso area of ​​the bed and are fastened together.

[0068]

[0085] 7B, 7C, and 7D show another example of a harness that fits over a pet carrier backpack. Here, harness 770 is shown having a chest portion 771. Harness 770 is removable and includes a swivel fastener 775 that extends through a corresponding aperture in the pet carrier backpack. Harness 770 has an upper attachment loop 772 that extends over the pet's neck / shoulder region. Loop 772 can be configured to be worn over the pet's head, or loop 772 can include a fastener such as a hook-and-loop fastener, a buckle, a clip, or the like for releasably attaching around the pet's neck / shoulder region.

[0069]

[0086] The harness 770 further has lower attachment portions 774. A lower strap 777 is attached to one of the lower attachment portions 774 and is configured to extend around the pet's back and attach to the other lower attachment portion 774 via a clip fastener 778 or the like. A stabilizing strap 780 can extend from the lower strap 777 to the upper attachment loop 772.

[0070]

[0087] In this example, harness 770 is configured to accommodate a storage bag (not shown). In some cases, it may be desirable for larger dogs to carry or carry a storage bag when the dog is not in the backpack. Harness 770 includes bag attachment clips 779 attached to both upper attachment loops 772 and lower attachment portion 772. Loops 781 are provided on stabilization straps 780 to provide additional stability. Clips 779 and loops 781 attach to the storage bag and securely hold the storage bag to harness 770.

[0071]

[0088] The removable or permanently attached harness 470, 770 offers several advantages. When a pet is wearing the harness 470, 770 inside the backpack 400, if the pet becomes startled, the pet cannot escape from the backpack 400, increasing the safety of the pet and the user. Additionally, the harness 470, 770 helps support the pet's weight, reducing the weight placed on the pet's hind legs. This increases the pet's comfort and also increases the amount of time the pet can spend inside the backpack 400. The harness 470, 770 also keeps the pet facing the front of the backpack 400 while the user is wearing it. This provides better balance and makes the backpack 400 easier to wear while carrying a pet.

[0072]

[0089] FIG. 10 shows another example of a pet harness that can be used with a pet carry backpack. The pet harness 1070 is similar in many respects to harnesses 470, 770 and can be used by a pet alone or in conjunction with a pet carry backpack such as these examples described herein. The pet harness 1070 can include a chest portion 1017 configured to extend along the pet's chest between the pet's front legs when the pet harness 1070 is worn by the pet. At the front of the harness 1070, the harness 1070 can include an attachment mechanism in the form of an attachment ring 1075. The attachment ring 1075 can serve as an attachment point by which the harness can be attached to the interior of a pet carry backpack (such as those described herein). For example, a clip, such as a carabiner clip, disposed on the interior of the pet carry backpack (e.g., on the inside of the front panel 104 of the pet carry backpack 100) can be attached to the attachment ring 1075. Such clips can be disposed near the collar portion of the backpack between the leg holes (e.g., near the collar 110 of the backpack 100 between the leg holes 124) to precisely position the pet within the backpack, e.g., to align the pet's front legs with the leg holes of the pet carrier backpack.

[0073]

[0090] The harness 1070 can have an upper attachment loop 1072. The upper attachment loop 1072 can extend over and around the pet's neck / shoulder region. The loop 1072 can be configured to be worn over the pet's head, or the loop 1072 can include a fastener for releasably attaching around the pet's neck / shoulder region using hook-and-loop fasteners, buckles, clips, etc.

[0074]

[0091] The harness 1070 may further include a lower attachment portion 1074 and a lower strap 1077. The lower strap 1077 may be attached to the lower attachment portion 1074 and may extend around the pet's back. The lower strap 1077 may attach to the lower attachment portion 1074 via a clip fastener 1078. A stabilizing strap 1080 may extend from the lower strap 1077 to the upper attachment loop 1072 and may extend along the pet's back when the harness 1070 is worn by the pet.

[0075]

[0092] The harness 1070 can include various other features. For example, the harness 1070 can be configured to carry one or more accessories. In this example, the harness 1070 can include accessory attachment clips 1079. The accessory attachment clips 1079 can allow accessories, such as clip-on bags, to be clipped to the harness, as described in more detail below. The harness 1070 can also include attachment rings 1082. In this example, the attachment rings 1082 are disposed on either side of the stabilizing strap 1080. The attachment rings 1082 can allow a user to attach a diaper or other item to the harness 1070. Loops 1084 can also be provided along the check portion 1071 of the harness 1084 to support other attachments or to secure a pet within the pet carrier backpack.

[0076]

[0093] FIG. 11A shows a pet wearing a pet harness and carrying a clip-on bag, and FIG. 11B shows a pet being carried in a pet carrier backpack. In some cases, a pet owner may want to take their pet on a walk, hike, or other similar outing. However, the distance of the outing may be beyond the pet's physical capabilities, such as due to age or other physical condition. In this case, the pet owner may utilize one or more of the pet carrier backpack examples described herein. However, both the pet and the owner may still want the pet to walk or run during at least part of the outing. In this case, the pet owner may want to be able to carry the pet for part or more of the outing.

[0077]

[0094] The harness 1070 can facilitate allowing a pet to be walked and carried by an owner during periods of absence. As described above, the harness 1070 can be configured to carry one or more accessories. In this example, an accessory attachment clip 1079 is used to selectively and releasably attach a clip-on bag 1150 to the harness 1070. The clip-on bag 1150 can include an opening 1152 for accessing an interior compartment of the clip-on bag 1150. The clip-on bag 1150 can include a strap 1154 and a clip 1156 that selectively and releasably attach to the accessory attachment clip 1079 of the harness 1070.

[0078]

[0095] The clip-on bag 1150 can be sized to pack the pet carry backpack 1110 within the clip-on bag 1150. In this manner, a pet, such as dog D shown in FIG. 11A , can carry the pet carry backpack 1100 during periods of outings where the pet is walking. When the pet becomes tired, or any other condition dictates that the pet should be carried, the pet carry backpack 1100 can be detached from the clip-on bag 1150, and the pet, such as dog D, can be placed within the pet carry backpack 1100 and carried by the user, as shown in FIG. 11B. The combination of the harness 1070 and the pet carry backpack 1100 can be considered a system for walking and carrying a pet.

[0079]

[0096] The pet carrying backpack 1100 may be similar to other backpacks described herein. The pet carrying backpack 1100 is constructed of a thin, lightweight, and strong material that can be easily compressed into the clip-on bag 1150 while also being strong enough to safely carry a pet within a pet carrying compartment formed within the pet carrying backpack 1100. When a pet is placed within the pet carrying backpack 1100, the clip-on bag 1150 is configured to be selectively and releasably attached adjacent to the rear panel 1102 of the backpack 1100.

[0080]

[0097] The pet carrying backpack 1100 and the clip-on bag 1150 are each sized to accommodate a pad 1142 (see FIGS. 11A and 11B ). When a pet is placed within the pet carrying backpack 1100, the pad is disposed on the interior of the pet carrying backpack 1100 adjacent to the bottom panel 1140 of the pet carrying backpack 1100. In other backpacks that have a storage compartment below the pet carrying compartment, such as backpack 300 described above, the pad is disposed at the bottom of the pet carrying compartment. The pad 1140 is sized to fit securely within the backpack 1100, such as extending to both ventilation ports 1114 on both sides of the backpack 1100. In this manner, the pad can provide structure to the pet carrying backpack while also being able to fold down to fit within the clip-on bag. This allows the pet to be securely and comfortably supported within the pet carrying backpack 1100.

[0081]

[0098] When a pet is carrying the pet carrier backpack 1100 within the clip-on bag 1150, the pad 1142 is sized to fit securely within the clip-on bag adjacent the front panel 1160 of the clip-on bag. Thus, the pad 1142 can protect the pet from being punctured by the pads, straps, and / or zippers on the backpack 1100 while the pad 1142 is stored within the clip-on bag 1150 and carried by the pet.

[0082]

[0099] Convertible pen

[0102] When a pet owner transports a pet by carrying the pet, such as by using the pet carrier backpack 100, 300, 400 described herein, the pet owner may find it necessary to confine the pet at the destination. For example, after transporting the pet to a restaurant, airport, or other public place, it may be best for the pet to remain confined to a certain area to avoid upsetting the pet or to prevent the pet from coming into contact with people in the area who may have pet allergies from the pet. Meanwhile, portable pet pens (pet enclosures) are used by pet owners to confine pets in public places, but such pens can be difficult to contain and transport the pet within.

[0083]

[0101] 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D show an example of a forward-facing pet carrying backpack that can be converted into a travel pet pen, according to one example. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, forward-facing pet carrying backpack 800 includes a front panel 804, a back panel 802, and side panels 803. Shoulder straps 806 are attached to front panel 804 to allow a user to wear backpack 800 on the user's back (not shown in FIG. 8A so that other features can be more easily seen; see FIG. 8C). Paw holes 824 are disposed on front panel 804 above shoulder straps 806. When a pet is seated within backpack 800, the pet's paws can extend through paw holes 824.

[0084]

[0102] The backpack 800 includes a collar 810 on top of the backpack 800. The collar 810 extends around the pet's neck during use and is adjusted by a collar strap 812. In this example, two access zippers 808 are disposed on the back panel 802. When the access zippers 808 are opened, the back panel 802 can be folded downward and away from the backpack 800, allowing the pet to walk to the interior of the backpack 800 as well as lie inside the backpack 800, for example, by lying on the interior of the front panel 804 for riding and leaning against the interior of the front panel 804.

[0085]

[0103] The backpack 800 may include other accessories, such as pockets. For example, several back pockets may be disposed on the back panel 802 of the backpack 800 to provide flexible storage options for the user. The pockets may be sewn to the back panel 802 or attached in any suitable manner. The pockets may include zippers for closing the pockets or other fastening mechanisms.

[0086]

[0104] As shown in FIG. 8C , the side panels 803 can include side storage pockets 817 for additional storage. The side panels 803 can be formed from a mesh material that allows airflow into the interior of the bag to help regulate a pet's body temperature. In some examples, the side panels can also include a fabric cover over the mesh with a vent access zipper to selectively open and close the side panels 803 to expose the mesh lining. When the zipper is open, air can flow through the lining to cool a pet riding inside the backpack 800. Adjustment straps 818 are provided along the side panels 803 as shown to adjust the interior space of the backpack 800 to accommodate pets of different sizes.

[0087]

[0105] 8A and 8B , the backpack 800 further includes a front pen release zipper 881 disposed on the front panel 804 of the backpack 800 and a back pen release zipper 880 disposed on the back panel of the backpack 800. The front pen release zipper 881 extends from the bottom of the backpack 800 near one of the side panels 803, to the top of the backpack 800 below the shoulder straps 806, and down the other side. The front pen release zipper 881 can extend to any desired height above the front panel 804 based on the size of the desired convertible pet pen. Similarly, the back pen release zipper 880 extends from the bottom of the backpack 800 near one of the side panels 803, to the top of the backpack 800 below the collar 810, and down the other side. The back pen release zipper 881 can extend to any desired height above the back panel 802 based on the size of the desired convertible pet pen. A rear pen release zipper 880 is disposed on the rear panel 802 just inside the two access zippers 808, as shown in Figure 8B.

[0088]

[0106] Front and rear pen release zippers 880, 881 are configured to release the pet pen. As shown in FIG. 8D , when the front pen release zipper 881 is opened, at least a portion of the front panel 804 folds away from the side panels 803, unfolding the front pen portion 882 of the pet pen. The front pen portion 882 can be formed from a mesh material that is strong enough to keep the pet within the front pen portion 882 of the pet pen, while allowing the pet to see outside and providing breathability to the front pen portion 882. The structure of the front pen portion 882 can be formed by flexible poles 884, such as those used in lightweight tents. The flexible poles 884 are spaced at intervals within the front pen portion 882 and form a support structure for the front pen portion 882. For example, a sleeve can be formed from the material of the front pen portion 882 of the pet pen with the poles 884 inserted therein.

[0089]

[0107] The front panel 804 can be formed to include or house a thick padded material so that when the front pen portion 882 is unfolded and the front panel 804 is placed on a flat surface, the front panel 804 provides a comfortable surface for a pet to rest on. The inside of the front panel 804 can be provided with a coating, such as a polyurethane coating, to provide a waterproof barrier.

[0090]

[0108] When the rear pen release zipper 880 is opened, at least a portion of the rear panel 802 folds away from the side panels 803, deploying the rear pen portion 883 of the pet pen. The rear pen portion 883 can be formed from a mesh material that is strong enough to keep the pet within the front portion 882 of the pet pen, while allowing the pet to see outside and providing breathability to the rear pen portion 883. The structure of the rear pen portion 883 can be formed by flexible poles 885, such as those used in lightweight tents. The flexible poles 885 are spaced at intervals within the rear pen portion 883 and form a support structure for the rear pen portion 883 of the pet pen. For example, a sleeve can be formed from the material of the rear pen portion 883 of the pet pen with the poles 885 inserted therein.

[0091]

[0109] The back panel 802 can be formed to include or house a thick padded material so that when the back pen portion 883 is unfolded and the back panel 802 is placed on a flat surface, the back panel 802 provides a comfortable surface for a pet to rest on. The inside of the back panel 802 can be provided with a coating, such as a polyurethane coating, to provide a waterproof barrier.

[0092]

[0110] FIG. 9 illustrates a base pad for a convertible pet backpack and pen according to one example of the present disclosure. The base pad 990 can include a bottom portion 992, a first side portion 994, and a second side portion 996. The base pad 990 can be formed from any suitable material to provide support and cushioning for a pet. The base pad 990 is configured to be disposed within the bottom panel 805, front panel 802, and back panel 804 of the backpack 800 (see FIGS. 8A-8D). When the front and back pen portions 882, 883 of the pet pen are unfolded, the side panels 994, 996 fold flat downward adjacent the bottom panel 992 to form a comfortable pad on which a pet can rest. The size and shape of the panels 992, 994, 996 can vary based on the size and shape of the bottom panel 805 of the backpack 800 and the portions of the front and back panels 802, 804 that will be unfolded as a pet pen.

[0093]

[0111] Backpack 800 offers several benefits to the user. The user can transport the pet similar to backpacks 100, 300, and 400 while also providing a safe and comfortable enclosure for the pet upon arrival at the destination. The pet pen keeps the pet safe and secure while allowing the user to remove backpack 800, thereby eliminating the need for the user to wear the carrier at all times. Additionally, the pet can remain securely within the pet carrier at the destination while having the freedom to rest comfortably in a sitting or lying position within the deployed pet pen.

[0094]

[0112] The foregoing description describes several examples illustrating various features incorporated into a pet carrier backpack. However, it should be noted that these features may be combined in any suitable combination and are not limited to the specific examples described herein and illustrated in the figures.

[0095]

[0113] While the foregoing examples illustrate the principles of the present invention in one or more particular applications, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications in form, use and details of implementation can be made without the exercise of the inventive faculty and without departing from the principles and concepts of the present invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the present invention be limited except as by the claims set forth below.

Claims

1. 1. A system for walking and carrying pets, comprising: a harness configured to be worn by the pet; a clip-on bag carried by the pet, the clip-on bag being selectively attachable to and detachable from the harness; a pet carry backpack including a pet compartment configured to carry the pet, the pet carry backpack configured to be stored within the clip-on bag carried by the pet; A system comprising:

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the harness comprises an attachment mechanism configured to attach to and separate from a front panel of the pet carrier backpack.

3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the attachment mechanism is disposed on a chest portion of the harness.

4. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pad disposed within the clip-on bag and configured to cushion the pet from the pet carry backpack stored within the clip-on bag, and a pad disposed within the pet compartment and configured to support the pet seated within the pet compartment.

5. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the pet carrier backpack comprises shoulder straps, an open top, and leg holes disposed on the backpack between the shoulder straps and the open top.

6. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the harness comprises a chest portion, the chest portion comprises an attachment mechanism, and the attachment mechanism is configured to be attached to and separate from a front panel of the pet carry backpack.

7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the attachment mechanism is attached to the front panel between the foot holes.

8. The pet carrier backpack, a bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel, and a left side panel connected together to form a bag having an open top, the open top including a collar that forms an opening configured to allow the head of the pet disposed within the bag to protrude through the open top, the collar being adjustable; shoulder straps disposed on and extending from the front panel; paw holes disposed on the front panel above the shoulder straps and below the collar, the paw holes configured to accommodate the pet's paws or legs; The system of claim 1 , comprising:

9. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the clip-on bag is selectively attachable to and detachable from the pet carry backpack.

10. 1. A system for walking and carrying pets, comprising: a pet carry backpack having a pet carry compartment for carrying the pet within the pet carry compartment; a harness configured to be worn by the pet, the harness including an attachment mechanism operable to be attached to and detached from the pet carry compartment; A system comprising:

11. the pet carrier backpack comprises shoulder straps, an open top, and leg holes disposed on the backpack between the shoulder straps and the open top; The system of claim 10 , wherein the harness comprises a chest portion, the chest portion comprising the attachment mechanism.

12. a bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, a right side panel, and a left side panel connected together to form a bag having an open top, the open top including a collar that forms an opening configured to allow the head of an animal disposed within the bag to protrude through the open top, the collar being adjustable; shoulder straps disposed on and extending from the front panel; leg holes disposed on a front surface of the backpack body above the shoulder straps and below the collar, the leg holes configured to accommodate the animal's feet or legs; a pet carry platform disposed within the bag above the bottom panel and below the open top, the pet carry platform forming a storage compartment below the pet carry platform and a pet compartment above the pet carry platform; A pet carrier backpack equipped with:

13. The pet carry backpack of claim 12, further comprising at least one contouring strap configured to shape the bag.

14. further comprising a vertical zipper disposed within the rear panel; 14. The pet carry backpack of claim 13, wherein the zipper facilitates access to the pet compartment, and the at least one contoured strap comprises at least one lumbar support strap disposed on the backpack across the vertical zipper.

15. 14. The pet carry backpack of claim 13, wherein the at least one contoured strap comprises at least one adjustment strap disposed on at least one of the right side panel and the left side panel, the at least one adjustment strap being oriented diagonally relative to a seam between the front panel and the at least one of the right side panel and the left side panel.

16. 16. The pet carrier backpack of claim 15, wherein the angle of the diagonal orientation of the at least one adjustment strap is between 25 degrees and 65 degrees.

17. 13. The pet carry backpack of claim 12, wherein the pet carry platform slopes upward from the front panel to the back panel.

18. 18. The pet carry backpack of claim 17, wherein the angle of the pet carry platform relative to a direction perpendicular to the front panel is between 10 degrees and 30 degrees.

19. 13. The pet carrier backpack of claim 12, further comprising a waist strap, said waist strap connected to said bag adjacent said storage compartment.

20. A set of multiple pet carrier backpacks, 13. The set of multiple pet carry backpacks, wherein each of the multiple pet carry backpacks is the pet carry backpack described in claim 12, wherein a first pet carry platform of a first pet carry backpack in the set of multiple pet carry backpacks is disposed a first distance from a first bottom panel of the first pet carry backpack, and a second pet carry platform of a second pet carry backpack in the set of multiple pet carry backpacks is disposed a second distance from a second bottom panel of the second pet carry backpack, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

Images