Dental station and system for dental care of livestock animals

Abstract

A dental station for improving dental care and oral hygiene in livestock, the dental station having a body including a support structure including a plurality of receiving and holding formations for receiving and supporting one or more of a plurality of chewable food elements of preselected sizes and shapes in a protruding manner.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for improving dental care and oral hygiene in domestic animals. Dental Related to dental stations.

[0002] In particular, the present invention provides a method for assisting in maintaining oral hygiene in household pets such as dogs or cats. Dental With regard to the stations and systems, the development of certain periodontal diseases that can otherwise lead to bad breath and soreness is reduced.

[0003] The present invention is primarily directed to improving the oral hygiene of domestic animals such as dogs or cats. Dental It has been developed for use in a radio communication station and will be described below with reference to this application, although it will be understood that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use. [Background technology]

[0004] Veterinary statistics show that by the age of three, most dogs and cats have some evidence of periodontal disease. Canine periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the mouth that typically progresses from plaque and mildly inflamed gums to established gingivitis, which may eventually be accompanied by bone and / or tooth loss.

[0005] Periodontal disease (gum disease) is caused by bacterial infection that builds up in plaque, a substance made from food particles and saliva. Plaque easily adheres to tooth surfaces above and below the gum line. If the plaque is not removed, minerals in the saliva mineralize the plaque into dental calculus (tartar), which firmly adheres to the teeth. Over time, the bacterial infection in the tartar can spread below the gum line.

[0006] Bacteria in sub-gingival plaque can cause irreversible changes to the dentition, including destruction of supporting tissue and bone, resulting in red, swollen, receding, or bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, and loss of appetite and reluctance to eat. If allowed to progress, bacteria below the gum line can enter the bloodstream and begin to travel around the body, causing inflammation in the blood vessels, kidneys, heart, and brain.

[0007] In recent years, veterinarians have become increasingly aware of the need for improved dog and cat dental care, and regular brushing of pets' teeth is recommended to prevent cavities and gum disease. Many dental toothbrush types and dental pastes are available on the market, with various designs and formulations.

[0008] Many pet dental kits come with toothpaste and a dual-headed toothbrush, along with a microfiber finger cloth specifically designed for pets' mouths to get you started. Finger brushes can also be used.

[0009] However, pet owners and pets often find the practice of brushing their pets' teeth unpleasant, and veterinary recommendations for frequent brushing are generally ignored until damage to the animal's teeth and gums occurs.

[0010] Recognizing the need for improved canine dental care and the reluctance of pet owners to brush their animals' teeth, the pet industry has developed a wide variety of chew toys that provide teeth cleaning and gum massage for dogs. A popular chew toy for such purposes comprises a short length of cotton rope with a large knot formed near its end to resemble the configuration of a traditional dog bone. As the dog chews the toy, the soft cotton rope provides cleaning and flossing for the dog's teeth, but the cotton is not inherently attractive to dogs due to its lack of texture.

[0011] To make them more appealing to dogs, various rawhide chew toys have been developed, some of which have become very popular. Rawhide is the hide of animals that have not been subjected to the tanning process, such as cow, pig, buffalo, deer, or elk. Rawhide offers an inherent advantage over cotton dog chew toys due to its chewy appeal to dogs. Rawhide is also more abrasive than the cotton or rubber materials from which chew toys are made, and when chewed, it undoubtedly provides improved plaque removal and superior cleaning of the animal's teeth. However, previous rawhide chew toys do not offer the beneficial flossing effect of cotton chew toys. Additionally, domestic animals such as dogs and cats are known to have dominant molars and premolars that they prefer to chew on. Thus, the side that is particularly preferred for chewing benefits from the scrubbing effect of chewing and less plaque and tartar buildup, while the less preferred side does not. This is a clear disadvantage of conventional chew toys. Regardless of which side the animal prefers to chew, one side remains subject to plaque and tartar buildup. This is usually the case equally, with one side being up to 40% cleaner than the least preferred side. It would be beneficial to provide a system or device that can facilitate more even and consistent cleaning of both sides of the jaw.

[0012] Products such as Greenies™ and Dentabones™ encourage pets to chew, helping to scrub away plaque and spreading protective saliva around the teeth. However, such products only provide targeted benefits to the back molars and premolars, leaving front teeth such as canines and incisors vulnerable to plaque and tartar buildup and periodontal disease.

[0013] Providing fresh, raw bones and other animal foods greatly aids oral hygiene. Not all dogs or cats have access to bones, and some animals have medical conditions or intestinal sensitivities that prohibit the use of bones in their diet.

[0014] In recent years, pet chew toys have seen the addition of effective therapeutic agents, such as tooth cleaners or breath fresheners, as well as attractants such as flavorings or scents. While scents or flavorings have been added to rawhide chew toys, they have generally been carried solely on the surface of the rawhide. Once an animal licks the flavoring off the toy, the subsequent chewing enticement provided by the scent or flavoring is lost, and the chew toy may be ignored. The same is true for therapeutic agents carried on the surface of the chew toy. The chew toy of the present invention not only takes advantage of the natural attractiveness of rawhide, while providing the beneficial flossing found in many cotton toys, but can also effectively carry and deliver one or more therapeutic agents and / or carry added animal attractants.

[0015] In view of the above, it would be desirable to have a dental device that addresses one or more of the deficiencies of the prior art.

[0016] It should be understood that where reference is made to prior art information, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or anywhere else. Summary of the Invention

[0017] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for improving dental care and oral hygiene in domestic animals. Dental Stations are provided, Dental The station includes a supporting structure including a plurality of receiving holding formations that receive and support one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements in a projecting manner.

[0018] DentalThe present invention is an advancement over conventional dental systems because the station provides a practical means of attracting and enabling the dog to chew food items on both sides of the jaw, allowing for effective cleaning of the teeth.

[0019] The support structure may include structure that assists the livestock in using one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements held in a protruding position to promote use of at least one set of specific teeth of the livestock.

[0020] Preferably, the set of particular teeth of the livestock includes at least one of canines, incisors, premolars, and molars. The ability to provide a system that encourages and facilitates cleaning of front teeth such as canines and incisors would be particularly advantageous and represent an advancement over prior art chew toys and the like.

[0021] Dental The station consists of one or more molded Storage department One or more shaped depots for directing livestock to at least a portion of one of the shaped depots Storage department The plurality of receiving and holding structures may include one or more molded support structures configured to define a plurality of receiving and holding structures. Storage department and the retaining structure is adapted to receive and support one or more of a plurality of preselected sizes and shapes of chewable food elements in a protruding manner, wherein the chewable food elements are accessible to particular teeth of the livestock in use. (approach) Can I'll At least one molded Storage department It extends inward.

[0022] Preferably, the support structure comprises one or more livestock support structures. Storage departmentThe food storage device includes shaped walls configured to define a plurality of receiving and retaining structures on the shaped walls, the retaining structures adapted to receive and support one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements in a protruding manner. The chewable food elements are adapted to encourage both livestock approach and the use of teeth on both sides of the animal's mouth. Storage department one or more Storage department Extends inward.

[0023] According to the present invention Dental The station does not give the dog or cat the choice of chewing on a preferred side. This is achieved by positioning the chewable food elements so that there is only one choice of teeth to use to access the chew. Storage department The position of the chewable food element relative to the teeth encourages the dog or cat to orient and align the chew from the preselected side so that the chewing action on both sides of the molars and premolars is equal in amount on both sides, resulting in equal cleaning on both sides.

[0024] Preferably, the support structure including at least one of the plurality of receiving and holding structures is capable of receiving and supporting one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements in a protruding manner to promote use of specific teeth of the livestock.

[0025] The support structure may include a shaped wall that includes or is adjacent to at least one of the plurality of receiving and holding structures, where the shaped wall assists the livestock in accessing one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements that are held in a protruding position in a particular direction to promote use of specific teeth of the livestock, including front teeth such as canines and incisors.

[0026] The support structure may include shaped floors that include or are adjacent to at least one of a plurality of receiving and holding structures, where the shaped floors facilitate access by livestock to one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements that are held protruding in specific directions to encourage use of specific teeth by the livestock.

[0027] Preferably, the plurality of receiving and holding structures are configured to receive and support a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food items in a projecting manner.

[0028] Dental The plurality of receiving and holding structures of the station are preferably supported by the support structure at specific, predetermined heights, where the height positions aid the livestock in accessing one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements held to promote specific tooth use by the livestock, which is an advantageous advancement over the prior art for cleaning and maintaining clean front teeth, such as canines and incisors.

[0029] A plurality of chewable food elements of preselected size and shape are preferably retained projecting from the support structure wall.

[0030] A plurality of chewable food elements of preselected sizes and shapes are preferably held projecting from the support bed.

[0031] Preferably, the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements are held protruding from the adjacent support structure wall by at least one protruding teeth engaging formation that engages the teeth of the livestock in a cleaning manner when the livestock bites one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements.

[0032] At least one protruding tooth-engaging formation is resiliently flexible.

[0033] Preferably, at least one of the protruding tooth-engaging formations is a tentacle formation.

[0034] In one aspect of the invention, the support structure comprises a plurality of support members each having a different one of a plurality of receiving and holding structures for receiving and supporting one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements in a projecting manner. Storage department , where the livestock can proceed from station to station to clean specific teeth on different sets of livestock.

[0035] Multiple Storage department can be formed by support structures arranged radially from a central location.

[0036] Preferably, the central point forms a fastening point by fastening means received through the support and extending through and connecting to the support.

[0037] In a related aspect of the invention, a method for improving dental care and oral hygiene in livestock is provided. Dental The station is revealed, DentalThe station has at least one shaped wall and shaped floor, and a support structure including a plurality of receiving and holding structures supported in contact with or adjacent to the shaped wall and / or shaped floor by the support structure for receiving and supporting one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements in a protruding state, wherein the support structure allows one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements to be positioned in a protruding state by defining at least one of a position and a height from a base. In this case, the shape of the dental structure assists the livestock in using one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements held in a protruding state to promote use of at least one set of specific teeth of the livestock, including at least one of canines, incisors, premolars, and molars. It would be particularly advantageous and represent an advance over prior art chew toys and the like to be able to provide a system that encourages and facilitates cleaning of front teeth, particularly canines and incisors.

[0038] The support structure preferably includes a shaped wall that includes or is adjacent to at least one of the plurality of receiving and holding structures, where the shaped wall facilitates access by the livestock to one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements that are held in a protruding position in a particular direction to encourage use of specific teeth of the livestock.

[0039] The support structure may include a shaped bed including or adjacent to at least one of a plurality of receiving and holding structures, where the shaped walls facilitate access by the livestock to one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements held in a protruding position in a particular direction to encourage use of specific teeth of the livestock.

[0040] Preferably, the plurality of receiving and holding structures are configured to receive and support a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food items in a projecting manner.

[0041] The plurality of receiving and holding structures are preferably supported by the support structure at specific, predetermined heights, where the height positions assist livestock in accessing one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements held to encourage the use of specific teeth of the livestock.

[0042] A plurality of chewable food elements of preselected size and shape are preferably retained projecting from the support structure wall.

[0043] A plurality of chewable food elements of preselected sizes and shapes are preferably held projecting from the support bed.

[0044] The plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements are preferably held protruding from the support structure wall adjacent at least one protruding teeth-engaging formation that cleanly engages the teeth of the livestock when the livestock bites one or more of the plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements.

[0045] Preferably, at least one of the protruding tooth-engaging formations is resiliently flexible.

[0046] At least one of the protruding tooth-engaging structures may be a tentacle structure.

[0047] Preferably, the support structure comprises a plurality of support members each having a different one of a plurality of receiving and holding formations for receiving and supporting in a projecting manner one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements. Storage department , and the animals can go from station to station to perform specific tooth cleanings on different sets of animals.

[0048] Multiple Storage department can be formed by support structures arranged radially from a central location.

[0049] Preferably, the central point forms a fastening point by fastening means received through the support and extending through and connecting to the support.

[0050] In a further related aspect of the present invention, a method for preparing a food product includes the steps of: a. providing a plurality of chewable food elements of preselected sizes and shapes; and b. providing a support structure for supporting the plurality of chewable food elements of preselected sizes and shapes; the support structure being capable of positioning one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements in a projecting state at at least one of: i. a position; ii. a height from the base; and iii. an angle; A system for caring for the teeth of livestock is disclosed, wherein the shape of the support structure assists the livestock in using one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements held in an elongated position to promote the use of at least one set of specific teeth of the livestock, including at least one of: i. canines, ii. incisors, iii. premolars, and iv. molars.

[0051] In a further related aspect of the present invention, there is provided a support structure having a floor section, a perimeter wall portion, and a front recessed or shallow wall relative to the perimeter wall portion for providing access to the floor section for livestock located in front or in front thereof, wherein the perimeter wall further includes opposing receiving and holding formations arranged to receive and hold chewable food elements of a preselected shape and size extending obliquely relative to the perimeter wall portion for being chewed to the left and right of the rear of the animal's teeth; a frame plate sized and shaped to fit into the floor of the support structure, the frame plate having a frame part surrounding a window opening, the window opening adapted to receive a chewable food block of a shape and size therethrough, the lower part of the frame part including a recessed perimeter around the window opening, the frame plate having a locking opening in the frame part that receives a locking knob to releasably hold the frame plate to the floor; a shaped chewable food block including a base having a shape substantially corresponding to the window opening, a protruding food element extending from the base through the window when assembled, and a series of flange elements extending from the edge of the base and fitting within and around the recessed periphery; A support structure and frame plate are provided, and a molded chewable food block is sandwiched between the frame plate and the floor for consumption by the animal. Storage department complementary releasable locking means for substantially holding the locking member in position within the locking member; Including, The relative orientation of the front recessed shallow wall and the moulded chewable food block allows livestock to Storage department encouraging livestock to face forward towards a shaped chewable food block when in the cage, thereby encouraging them to chew the protruding food element using their front teeth; directing livestock in a specific direction for cleaning the animals' teeth Storage department is explained.

[0052] The complementary releasable locking means may include a longitudinal opening in the floor adjacent the recessed or shallow wall, and a locking knob having a molded locking tab that releasably engages the longitudinal opening.

[0053] Preferably, the complementary releasable locking means further includes a tab extending from the frame portion of the frame plate away from the longitudinal opening, and a recess opening between the floor of the support structure and the peripheral wall at the end of the shallow wall, such that in the assembled condition the tab is received in a releasable locking position in the recess opening.

[0054] Preferably, in the assembled state, the frame plate is placed over the shaped chewable food block with the flange elements received by the recessed periphery of the frame plate and the tab members slidably received in the recessed openings.

[0055] Storage department The may further include a substantially non-slip rubber mat underneath the floor to increase friction with the supporting surface, and a plugged access port at the rear of the floor for injecting a fluid material such as sand or water to add stability.

[0056] In a further related aspect, a support structure having a floor portion, a peripheral wall portion, and a recessed or shallow wall forward relative to the peripheral wall portion for allowing livestock located in front or in front of the floor portion to access the floor portion, the peripheral wall further including opposing receiving and retaining formations arranged to receive and retain chewable food elements of preselected shapes and sizes extending obliquely relative to the peripheral wall portion for being chewed on the left and right of the rear of the animal's teeth; a brush plate having a plurality of substantially upright brush members sized and shaped to fit within the floor portion of the support structure and defining a brush field for removing plaque and tartar, and a series of spaced insertion ports for receiving chewable food elements of shapes and sizes interspersed within the brush field; a retaining means below the brush plate for securing the shaped and sized chewable food element in an inserted position; releasable locking means for securing the brush plate to the floor of the support structure; for improving dental care and oral hygiene in livestock, including Storage department is explained.

[0057] The retaining means may be located in a portion of the floor of the support structure. Storage department The food feeder further includes a support plate intermediate the floor portion of the support structure and the brush plate, the support plate having a series of openings corresponding to the insertion openings of the brush plate that form a retaining means for receiving and retaining chewable food items scattered about the brush area. The support plate positions the brush plate, minimizes movement of the brush plate as chewable food items are sought and chewed by the animal, and provides an anchor for the support structure, thereby Storage department Additionally, the support plate protects the support structure from damage by animals and can be reused multiple times.

[0058] Preferably, the support plate includes a molded rubber central portion and a plastic frame border, the rubber central portion having a plurality of malleable / flexible openings that form a retention means for receiving and positioning chewable food items of a preselected size and shape. The molded rubber central portion expands to receive the chewable item as the insertion end of the food item is inserted, allowing it to subsequently resiliently close around the insertion end. The plastic frame border is relatively more rigid than the rubber central portion and, in one embodiment, can slidably engage recessed openings in the peripheral wall portion to secure the support plate to a support structure.

[0059] The support plate may further include a locking opening in the forward portion of the plastic rim that mates with the locking opening in the brush plate to receive the locking tab of the locking knob.

[0060] Storage department The may further include complementary engagement means on the support plate and part of the peripheral wall to hold the support plate in a stable position during use.

[0061] The complementary engagement means may include a flange extending from a portion of the plastic edge of the support plate and a recessed opening in the peripheral wall, the flange being in releasable and slidable engagement with the recessed opening.

[0062] The support plate may further include a series of spaced apart rib members that add structural strength to the central portion.

[0063] The benefits of the system include one or more of the following: a. Encourage domestic animals such as dogs to eat shaped chewable food elements with both sides of the mouth. b. Different chewing objects and locations help to clean all teeth, front and back teeth and all surfaces. c. Dental The physical obstruction caused by the station configuration orients the animal to bite side to side to clean the inner and outer surfaces of the teeth. d. The ability to provide a system that encourages and facilitates cleaning of front teeth, such as canines and incisors, would be particularly advantageous and an advancement over prior art chew toys and the like. e. Dental A station can serve multiple animals simultaneously.

[0064] Other aspects of the present invention are also disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples.

[0065] Notwithstanding other aspects which may fall within the scope of the invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0066] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic enlarged view of a dental station and system for domestic animal dental care according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic enlarged view of an insert structure used in the dental station shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 3] 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the insertion structure taken along line XX' shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 3 is a schematic diagram showing a dental station and system for caring for the teeth of livestock in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention in a partial side and partial end view, showing the insert structure of FIG. 2 in an assembled state. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an angled side view of a dental station and system for livestock dental care according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 6] 6 is a schematic diagram showing the dental station of FIG. 5 in partial side and partial end view. FIG. [Figure 7] 6 is a schematic diagram showing the dental station of FIG. 5 in a top plan view. FIG. [Figure 8] 6 is a schematic diagram of the dental station of FIG. 5 showing the opposite end of FIG. 4. [Figure 9] 2 is a schematic diagram of the dental station of FIG. 1 in partial side view showing the internal system for receiving and holding dog chews. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a plan view of the dental station of FIG. 7 illustrating the insertion of the dog chew in the inserted state. [Figure 11] 2 is a schematic diagram of a domestic dog's teeth being treated in the dental station of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating, in partial side view, a dental station and system for livestock dental care in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 13] 13 is a schematic diagram showing another side view of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIG. 12. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a schematic exploded view of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIGS. 11 and 12. [Figure 15] 15 is a schematic exploded bottom view of the dental station and system for domestic animal teeth care of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] 1 is a schematic diagram showing, in partial side view, a dental station and system for domestic animal dental care according to a further embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 17] 17 is a schematic exploded view of a portion of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIG. 16. FIG. [Figure 18] 17 is a schematic exploded view of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIG. 16. FIG. [Figure 19] 17 is a schematic enlarged front view of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIG. 16. [Figure 20] 17 is a schematic enlarged exploded view of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIG. 16. FIG. [Figure 21] 17 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIG. 16. [Figure 22] 22 is a schematic exploded view of the dental station and system for domestic animal dental care of FIG. 21. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0067] In the following description, it should be noted that similar or identical reference numerals in different embodiments indicate the same or similar features.

[0068] Referring to the drawings, a method for improving dental care and oral hygiene in livestock is provided. Dental Station 11 is shown. As shown schematically in connection with FIG. DentalStation 11 includes a support structure 13 including a plurality of receiving and holding structures 42 that receive and support one or more of a plurality of preselected sizes and shapes of chewable food elements 22 a, 22 b in a protruding manner. The position and shape of the chewable food elements on the holding structures provides effective cleaning of the animal's teeth (see FIG. 13) on both the upper and lower teeth, front and interior sides.

[0069] As shown, the support structure 13 may be one or more molded Storage department one or more shaped markers for directing livestock in a particular direction relative to at least a portion of one of the markers. Storage department 200, 201. Storage department In one or more molded Storage department 1. A plurality of receiving and holding structures are shown positioned on at least one support structure 13 of the food product container 10. The holding structures hold one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements 21, 22a, 22b. Storage department In use, the chewable food element is attached to at least one shaped, pre-defined tooth-accessible portion of the food item at a predetermined orientation and height to allow access by specific teeth of the livestock. Storage department Extends inward.

[0070] As shown, the support structure 13 may be configured to support one or more livestock. Storage department The support structure includes a shaped wall configured to define a plurality of receiving and holding structures 42, 43 located on the shaped wall of the support structure, the holding structures adapted to receive and support one or more of a plurality of preselected sizes and shapes of chewable food elements in a projecting manner. The chewable food elements are adapted to encourage both livestock access and the use of teeth on both sides of the animal's mouth. Storage department and extending into one or more storage sections in a direction and at a height required within the storage section.

[0071] 1 and 7, the support structure 13 includes opposed molded outer walls 13a and an inner molded wall 13e extending therebetween, with wall 13a adjacent to receiving and retaining structure 42. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the combined molded walls and adjacent receiving and retaining structure 42 are adapted to receive and retain chewable food elements 22a, 22b of a preselected shape and size with projection in a direction required to encourage both livestock access and use of the teeth on both sides of the animal's mouth.

[0072] The retaining structure 42 includes a releasable engagement structure for holding the chewable food element in a protruding position, with a mounting portion 33 of the wall 13a having an internal thread, and a mating holding pin 34 releasably engageable with the mounting portion 33. As shown, the pin includes a head with a recess for receiving a screwdriver or the like for tightening or loosening, and for disengaging the holding pin from the mounting portion, thereby allowing the chewable food element to be received and replaced when worn.

[0073] In FIG. 1, the support structure 13 shows that the formed wall 13a is arcuate and the formed inner wall 13e is concave, and the formed wall 13a and the formed inner wall 13e are Storage department Form A. Storage department A may further include a shaped floor portion 13c that is substantially circular and bounded by a peripheral wall 14 at least a portion of which is received within or integral with the concave wall 13e and on which a portion of the shaped wall 13a of the support structure rests.

[0074] The combination of the various retention structures and shaped walls of the support structure provides sufficient animal obstruction so that, for example, a first shaped chew 22a is accessible only on the right side of the animal's oral cavity to allow cleaning of the teeth on the right side (see FIG. 2). Similarly, a second shaped chew 22b protruding from a second receiving and retaining structure 42 of shaped wall 13a provides sufficient obstruction to animal access so that the protruding chewable food product is accessible only on the left side of the animal's oral cavity to allow cleaning of the upper and lower teeth on the left side (the canine teeth are best seen in FIG. 14).

[0075] In Figures 2 and 3, Dental The station is Storage department A. The chewable food and cleaning insert structure 230 includes a bottom platform 233 and a top portion 234 separated by a chamfered edge 235, and the insert Storage department A and has a complementary shape to match the area therein. Storage department The shaped floor section of A and the insert 230 are arranged such that the insert structure remains stable while the animal is eating. Storage department A includes mating engagement means for releasably locating the insert structure on floor 13c within A.

[0076] With particular reference to FIGS. 1-3, the mating engagement means includes a plurality of flange elements 232 located below a bottom platform 233 of the insert 230; Storage department A portion 13c of the floor of the insert 230 has a series of spaced arcuate recesses 231. A flange 232 secures the insert 230 to the insert 230. Storage departmentA floor portion 13c has an inverted T-configuration configured to slidably engage spaced arcuate recesses 231 for releasably securing to the floor portion 13c of the A floor.

[0077] Insert 230 further includes a series of longitudinally spaced, alternating teeth brushing holding formations 236 and chewable food element holding formations 237 extending across top surface 234. Alternating holding formations 236, 237 are configured to receive complementary, alternating teeth brushing structures 238 and chewable food elements 239, respectively.

[0078] 2 and 3, toothbrush holding structure 236 includes a shallow inverted-T shaped recess in top surface 234 for laterally receiving and slidably engaging elongated toothbrushing structure 238 from its periphery. Toothbrushing structure 238 includes an inverted-T shaped base insert 240, a shaped head portion 241, and brush elements 242 attached or affixed to the shaped head portion such that the brush elements are positioned to extend diagonally from head portion 241 and are positioned adjacent to and between chewable food elements 239.

[0079] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the shaped head portion 241 of the toothbrushing structure is substantially triangular with beveled sides that form a main arrow head structure with contrasting beveled sides to which the brush elements 242 are attached, and the brush elements 242 extend substantially perpendicular to each of the beveled sides of the arrow head between the rows of chewable food elements 239.

[0080] The insert 230 further includes a chewable food element retention structure 237 for laterally receiving and slidably engaging a chewable food element 239 from its periphery. The chewable food element retention structure 237 includes a relatively deep, frustoconical base recess extending from the upper surface 234 within the insert structure and a series of narrow slotted openings in the upper surface 234, the retention structure extending across the insert 230 and interleaved with the toothpaste retention structures. The chewable food element 239 includes a shaped base 243 having a shape complementary to the frustoconical base recess and a neck portion extending upward from the shaped base that extends through the slotted opening and terminates in a spherical head 245. The location of the chewable food elements 22a, 22b at a height H1 above the level of the insert 230 provides an arrangement that aids in cleaning all dental surfaces of an animal, such as a dog. The placement of the insert structure 230 also represents a significant advantage over the chewable food elements 22a, 22b, as the head of the chewable food element combined with the tooth-cleaning structure 238 encourages the animal to continue chewing, thereby promoting cleaning of different teeth and tooth surfaces and gums.

[0081] Now, referring to Figures 5 to 8, Dental A further embodiment is shown in which station 11 includes a support structure 13 and a plurality of receiving and holding structures 42, 43 that receive and support one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements 22a, 22b, 21 in a protruding state.

[0082] In Figures 5 to 8, Dental The support structure 13 of station 11 includes a pair of opposing forming walls 13a connected to one another by a body portion 13b, the body portion having opposite concave walls 13e, 13f extending across and connecting the opposing walls 13a. Storage department At a distance from A Storage department Placed opposite A Storage department Form B.

[0083] Storage department B further includes a molded floor portion 13g which is substantially circular and bounded by a peripheral wall 44, at least a portion of which is received within or integral with the concave wall 13f and provided on a portion of the molded wall 13a of the support structure.

[0084] Storage department B further includes a shaped floor portion 13g that is substantially circular and at least partially received within the concave wall 13f and bounded by a peripheral wall 44 provided on a portion of the shaped wall 13a of the support structure.

[0085] In this embodiment, the molding wall 13a and the body 13b are Storage department As shown, in this embodiment Storage department A and Storage department B are disposed on opposite sides with a gap therebetween and are attached to the concave wall surfaces 13e and 13f on opposite sides of the main body 13b, respectively. Storage department allows for use by multiple animals simultaneously.

[0086] In this embodiment, Dental The station 11 is attached to a portion of the body 13b of the support structure 13, Storage department B. Receiving and holding structure 43 includes a torso 45 formed to be located within the area of ​​concave wall 13 f, a nose 48, and a holding sub-assembly 43 a intermediate body 45 and nose 48 and including a holding receptacle 49 for holding the chewable food item and a closure 50.

[0087] The receiving and retaining structure 43 and the main body 13b include mating engagement means including a threaded pin 47 on a portion of the barrel 45 and a mating nut 46 that extends through an opening in the main body 13b. When the barrel is attached to the main body, the receiving and retaining structure 43 is slidably inserted across the portion 13g of the floor 13 and lies beneath the main body 13b within the concave wall 13f.

[0088] As shown in Figures 9 and 10 with the lid 50 removed, the chewable food element retaining socket 49 of the retaining subassembly 43a includes two chewable food element mounts 60, 61 for receiving at least a portion of the shaped chewable food elements 20, 21, respectively.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 10, the attachment portions 60, 61 of the chewable food elements are disposed diagonally on opposite sides and symmetrically with respect to a centerline A-A' extending through the receiving and holding arrangement 43. As shown in FIG.

[0090] The shaped chewable food elements 20, 21 each include a base portion 71 shaped to be positioned within each of the attachment portions 60, 61; Storage department At height H1 above the floor of B, diagonally to the center line A-A' Storage department It can be seen that part B has a bullet-shaped head protruding from the floor.

[0091] The retention subassembly 43a includes releasable engagement means on the chewable food element retention socket 49 and the lid 50. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the releasable engagement means comprises a slot 73 in the chewable food element retention socket 49 and a mating pin 74 that passes through an opening in the lid that is aligned with the slot 73. The slot 73 may include internal threads and a mating threaded portion for releasably engaging the pin 74 therein. As shown, the pin 74 includes a recess for receiving a screwdriver or the like for tightening or loosening and disengaging the retention pin from its mounting portion, thereby allowing the lid to be opened and a chewable food element to be replaced once the bullet-shaped head is worn.

[0092] In Figures 5 through 8, the lid 50 of the retention subassembly 43a is shown positioned over the chewable food element retention socket 49. The lid 50 includes internal structure (not shown) that cooperates with the mounting portions 60, 61 to surround the base portion 71 of the chewable food element 21 when in the closed position (shown in Figures 5 through 8) and provide a stable support for the animal to eat the bullet-shaped head.

[0093] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the receiving and holding structure 43 provides a structure with an angle A1 between the body and nose which is designed to separate the storage section B and in combination with the chewable food elements 20, 21 and the opposing wall 13a provides an effective impediment to the eating animal so that the chewable food elements 20, 21 are only eaten on one side of the animal's mouth.

[0094] Referring to Figures 12 to 15, an alternative Dental A further embodiment of the present invention is shown providing station 130 . Dental Station 130 comprises a floor section 132 (see FIG. 14), a perimeter wall 133, and a Storage department a molded in shape having a recessed or shallow wall 134 at the front allowing access to the Storage department21 and 22, the storage station walls are hollow and adapted to receive a fluid material such as sand or water that will compress under pressure and thereby add stability to the station when accessed by an animal for teeth cleaning.

[0095] Dental Station 130 is Storage department 13. The food block 141 further includes a frame plate 139 sized and shaped to fit into the floor of the food processor 100. The frame plate has a frame portion 140 surrounding a window opening for receiving a food block 141 therethrough, and a frame locking opening 142 for receiving a locking tab 146 of a locking knob 143. The food block 141 of a preselected shape and size has a plurality of rows and columns of shaped chew pieces thereon having a configuration of a substantially square truncated pyramid with trapezoidal faces, as shown in FIG.

[0096] As shown in Figure 15, the lower portion of the frame plate 139 includes a recessed perimeter 144 around the window opening adapted to receive a flange element 145 of a food block 141 therein for securely holding a food block sandwiched between the floor and the frame plate against access. In this embodiment, the food block 141 has a generally square or rectangular base corresponding to the shape of the recessed perimeter 144, although it will be appreciated that the shapes of the recessed perimeter, window opening, and food block can vary.

[0097] The relative orientation of the front recessed wall 134 and the shaped and sized food block 141 allows the livestock to Storage department The frame plate 139 is intended to force the food block 141 to face forward, thus encouraging the animal to use its front teeth to chew the food element. Storage departmentThe combination of food elements 141, 136 actually allows for and facilitates chewing, scraping, and scraping of the animal's front, back, right, and left teeth.

[0098] The frame plate further includes a tab member 147 extending rearwardly from a portion of the frame portion adapted to be received in the recessed opening 137 in a releasably locked position.

[0099] In the assembled condition shown in Figure 15, the frame plate 139 is positioned over the food block 141 such that the flange elements 145 are received by the recessed periphery 145 of the frame plate and the tab members 147 are slidably received in the recessed openings 137. As further shown in Figure 15, Storage department Floor 131 includes a substantially non-skid equipped rubber mat 149 for increased friction with the support surface, and an access port 148 with a plug 168 at the rear of the floor for injecting a fluid material, such as sand or water, for added stability. When the frame plate and food block are in place, locking knob 143 is inserted into opening 142 so that the locking tab is received through locking opening 142. The locking knob is then rotated to change the orientation of the locking tab relative to locking opening 142 to hold the frame plate to the floor over the food block, such that a portion of the food block protrudes from the frame plate. Storage department This configuration, together with the preselected shape and size of the food blocks, helps to orient the animals so that their front teeth are preferentially cleaned.

[0100] Figures 16 to 22 show alternative Dental 1 shows a station 150 according to the present invention. Dental 1 shows a further embodiment of a station. Dental Station 150 includes a floor section 132 (see FIG. 17), a perimeter wall 133, and a staircase for placing livestock in a specific orientation. Storage departmentThe chewable food element includes a shaped storage section 131 having a front recessed or shallow wall 134 that allows access to the chewable food element. The peripheral wall further includes a receiving and holding structure 135 adapted to receive and hold a chewable food element 136 of a preselected shape and size. As shown in FIG. 18 , the chewable food element can be of any shape, but it includes an externally threaded hollow insert stem 180 that is adapted to be received by engaging with complementary threads on the receiving and holding structure 135. In this manner, the chew is substantially secured in the holding structure, thereby facilitating easy insertion and replacement, but reducing the risk of the animal easily dislodging the chew. The hollow insert stem can also be removed from the holding structure with an insertion tool for replacement.

[0101] Storage department The sides of the floor and walls (see FIG. 22) include recessed openings 151, and the front of the floor near the front recessed wall includes an opening 138 along the length of the floor. As best shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, Storage department The walls of the station are hollow and are adapted to be weighed down and thereby receive a fluid material such as sand or water which adds stability to the station when an animal accesses it for teeth cleaning.

[0102] Dental Station 150 further comprises a brush plate 153 and an intermediate support plate 152 that, in an assembled state, is positioned between the floor of the support structure and the brush plate. Support plate 152 includes a molded rubber central portion 154 and a plastic framed rim 155. Rubber central portion 154 includes a plurality of conformable, flexible openings 156 that form a retention means adapted to receive and position chewable food items 157 of a preselected size and shape. The support plate further includes locking openings 158 in a forward portion of the plastic rim that mate with locking openings 163 in brush plate 153 to receive locking tabs 146 of locking knob 143.

[0103] 22, the support plate also includes a flange 159 extending from a portion of the plastic edge 155 that is adapted to releasably and slidably engage the recessed opening 151. The support plate further includes a series of spaced rib members 160 that add structural strength to the central portion 154.

[0104] The brush plate 153 comprises a molded plastic plate having an array of upstanding brushing members 161 forming a brushing area 170 interspersed with a plurality of inserts 162 for receiving food items 157 therethrough. The inserts 162 are aligned with each of the flexible openings 156 in the support plate. Chewable food items are shown including barbed insertion heads and axially spaced, molded, spherical chewable heads. The insertion heads extend through the brush plate inserts 162 and penetrate correspondingly aligned flexible openings 156 in the support plate. Once received by the flexible openings 162, the barbed heads substantially prevent removal of the heads exposed within the brushing area, helping to connect and retain the brush plate 153 to the support plate 152.

[0105] The brush plate further includes a forward opening 163 aligned with the openings 158, 138 for receiving the locking knob 143 and locking tab 142. In the assembled state shown in Figures 20 to 22, the support plate 153 Storage department and flange 159 is received by mating recess 151. In this position, opening 158 Storage departmentThe brush plate 153 is then placed on the support plate with the openings 163 and inserts 162 aligned with the corresponding openings 158, 156, respectively. A preselected chewable food item 157 is inserted into the inserts 162 and received by the corresponding aligned openings 156 in the support plate, with the barbed heads of the chewable food item acting as anchors to help hold the brush plate to the support plate.

[0106] When the brush plate and support plate are in place and the food item is inserted and received by the opening 156, the locking knob 143 is inserted into the openings 163, 142 and the locking tab Storage department The locking knob is then rotated to change the orientation of the locking tab relative to the locking opening 138 to hold the frame plate on the food block on the floor. As further shown in FIG. 22, Storage department may include a substantially non-slip rubber mat 149 mounted beneath the floor to increase friction with the supporting surface. Storage department The bed also has an access port 148 with a plug 168 at the rear of the bed for injecting fluid materials such as sand or water to add stability.

[0107] In this embodiment, the multiple chewable foods scattered across the brush area encourage the livestock to explore and search for treats, while also orienting the animals, i.e. Storage department The brush area and food elements effectively clean the animal's rows of teeth.

[0108] The present invention Dental The benefits of the station include: a. The support structure may include structure that assists the livestock in using one or more of a plurality of preselected sized and shaped chewable food elements held in a protruding position to facilitate use with at least one particular set of teeth of the livestock. b. Encourage domestic animals such as dogs to eat shaped chewable food elements with both sides of the mouth. c. Different chewing objects and positions help to clean all teeth, front and back teeth and all surfaces. d. Dental The physical obstruction caused by the station configuration orients the animal to bite side to side to clean the inner and outer surfaces of the teeth. e. Dental A station can serve multiple animals simultaneously.

[0109] interpretation

[0110] Embodiment

[0111] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, although they may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure.

[0112] Similarly, in the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, it should be understood that various features of the invention may be grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and facilitating an understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. However, this manner of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive step less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment described above. Thus, any claim following a detailed description of a particular embodiment is expressly intended to be implicit in that detailed description of the particular embodiment, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0113] Furthermore, although some embodiments described herein may include some features that are not included in other embodiments, combinations of features from different embodiments are within the scope of the present invention and are meant to form different embodiments as would be understood by one skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments may be used in any combination.

[0114] Different Instances of Objects

[0115] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives such as "first," "second," "third," etc. to describe common things is intended only to indicate that different instances of the same thing are being referred to, and does not imply that the things so described need be in any particular order, whether temporally, spatially, ranked, or otherwise.

[0116] Specific Details

[0117] In the description provided herein, many specific details are set forth. However, it will be understood that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0118] Terminology

[0119] In describing the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in the drawings, specific terminology will be relied upon for clarity. However, it is understood that the present invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected, and that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward," "rearward," "radial," "peripheral," "upper," and "lower" are used as convenient words to indicate points of reference and should not be construed as limiting terms.

[0120] Comprising and Including

[0121] In the following claims and the preceding description of the invention, unless the context requires otherwise due to the express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in the inclusive sense, i.e., to specify the presence of stated features but do not exclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0122] Any one of the terms "including" or "which includes" or "that includes" as used herein is also an open term meaning to include at least the elements / features that follow that term, but not to exclude others. Thus, "including" is synonymous with "comprising" and means "comprising."

[0123] Scope of Invention

[0124] Thus, while what are believed to be preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and that the intention is to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, the above formulas are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functions may be added or deleted from the block diagrams, and operations may be interchanged between functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to the methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0125] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be embodied in many other forms. [Industrial Applicability]

[0126] As is apparent from the above, the arrangements described are applicable to dental devices for assisting the dental hygiene of livestock animals.

Claims

1. a body having a support structure including a shaped wall and a shaped floor configured to define a plurality of storage compartments for access by livestock for chewing; each storage section including a plurality of holding structures for receiving and supporting at least one chewable food element for access by the livestock for chewing; a plurality of retaining structures are located on the formed wall or floor of each storage section, and at least one chewable food element extends from the formed wall or floor into the plurality of storage sections at a predetermined direction and height; each storage section holds at least one chewable food element protruding in a particular orientation and height to encourage livestock to use a predetermined set of teeth to access the chewable food element, such that the livestock must use a different set of teeth to chew the chewable food element in one of the plurality of storage sections than the set of teeth required to chew at least one chewable food element provided in at least one of the other storage sections; and A dental station for providing dental care to livestock, wherein a set of teeth used by the livestock to chew chewable food elements is cleaned during chewing.

2. 10. The dental station of claim 1, wherein the holding structure provides at least one chewable food element in an extended configuration to encourage use of a predetermined set of teeth in the livestock.

3. 3. The dental station of claim 2, wherein the predetermined set of teeth of the livestock includes at least one of canines, incisors, premolars, and molars.

4. 10. The dental station of claim 1, wherein the chewable food item is retained protruding from the molded wall by a retaining structure.

5. 5. The dental station of claim 4, wherein the chewable food items are held protruding from the molded wall adjacent to at least one toothpaste holding structure located on the molded floor of each storage section, such that when the livestock bites the chewable food item, the toothpaste holding structure engages the livestock's teeth in a cleaning manner.

6. 6. The dental station of claim 5, wherein at least one toothpaste holding structure is resiliently flexible.

7. 6. The dental station of claim 5, wherein at least one toothpaste-holding structure is a tentacle structure.

8. 10. The dental station of claim 1, wherein the support structure includes a forming bed configured to define a plurality of storage areas for livestock, and the plurality of holding structures are located on the forming bed.

9. 9. The dental station of claim 8, wherein the chewable food elements extend from the forming bed into the plurality of storage compartments from predetermined directions and heights within the storage compartments to encourage livestock to access the chewable food elements using a predetermined set of teeth.

Images