Animal containment device for an airplane

Abstract

An animal containment system for use in a vehicle as well as an airplane is disclosed. The animal containment device includes an animal containment device having a base, a wall panel, and a removable accessory panel ("airline panel") that attaches to the wall panel in an overlapping arrangement. The removable accessory panel includes at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the wall panel, and a movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the wall panel. In some aspects, the movable latch mechanism includes a single actuator and a single engaging member. In some aspects, the movable latch mechanism includes a cam assembly that causes, the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the wall panel when the movable latch mechanism is actuated.

Description

Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOANIMAL CONTAINMENT DEVICE FOR AN AIRPLANE CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63 / 743,905, filed on January 10, 2025, 63 / 771,312, filed on March 13, 2025, 63 / 796,834, filed on April 29, 2025, 63 / 810,472, filed on May 22, 2025, 63 / 864,046, filed on August 14, 2025 and 63 / 955,542, filed January 7, 2026, which are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to animal containment devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates animal containment devices for securing a pet or an animal in an airplane.BACKGROUND

[0003] Many pet owners utilize a crate, cage, or other type of traveling carrier to transport animals in a vehicle, such as an automobile. Yet instances may arise where transporting the animal in an airplane is required, such as when a pet is being adopted or rescued, when the pet owner is moving, or when a family w ants their pet to j oin them on vacation. While small dogs can be brought as carry-ons and simply placed beneath the seat in front of the ow ner, large dogs must travel in the cargo space of the airplane and thus must meet more rigid compliance guidelines since the animal will be within the care of the airline from check-in until the plane lands at its destination. However, many conventional pet carriers do not comply with these guidelines or, if they do, are not properly suited for pedestrian or vehicular transportation. For example, in order to comply with airline requirements for smaller ventilation holes for animal transport, typical airline crates provide less ventilation than desired in other settings. In another example, typical airline crates are cumbersome, heavy, and difficult to transport (e.g., from the parking lot to check-in).SUMMARY

[0004] Aspects of this disclosure relate to airline-compatible animal containment systems, kits, devices (e.g., crates for large dogs), and methods for use in an airplane. In some aspects, as disclosed herein, the disclosed airline-compatible animal containment systems, kits, devices, and methods may include any suitable combination of one or more locks (e.g., barrel locks, channels for cable ties) for securing the animal containment device door, attachable exterior accessory panels (e.g., removable “airline panels” having smaller ventilation openings to further restrict the ventilation space per airline requirements), lockable wheels (e.g., to prevent the animal containment device- 1 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOfrom moving in the cargo space of the airplane per airline requirements), attachable dollies with wheels for rollably transporting the animal containment device (e.g., for rolling the animal containment device to and from the airline drop-off and pick-up locations), attachable accessory’ bags for carrying pet accessories (e.g., accessory’ backpacks that are removably attachable to the roof of the animal containment device), and attachable food and water bowls. As such, the disclosed airline-compatible animal containment systems, kits, devices, and methods disclosed herein are usable both for travel within a vehicle and within an airplane.

[0005] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment device is disclosed. The animal containment device may include a base, a wall panel, and a removable accessory’ panel (e.g., airline panel) comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the wall panel.

[0006] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment device is disclosed. The animal containment device may include a base, a wall panel, and a removable accessory panel (e.g., airline panel) configured to attach to the wall panel in an overlapping arrangement. The removable accessory’ panel may include at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the wall panel. The removable accessory’ panel may further include a movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the wall panel.

[0007] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment system is disclosed. The animal containment system may include an animal containment device comprising a base and at least one panel having a bowl alignment structure. The animal containment system may further include a bowl device mountable to the at least one panel. The bowl device may include a mounting structure configured to engage the bowd alignment structure of the at least one panel. The bow l device may further include a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the at least one panel. The bowl device may further include a lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion the at least one panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the at least one panel.

[0008] In accordance w ith another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment device is disclosed. The animal containment device may include a base having a first portion and a second portion, a first sidewall extending from the first portion of the base, and a second sidewall extending from the second portion of the base. The animal containment device may further include a pair of wheels positioned proximate the first sidewall. The animal containment device may further include a wheel lock mechanism including a w’heel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.

[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment system is disclosed. The animal containment system may include an animal containment device comprising- 2 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa panel and a door. The animal containment system may further include a tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the panel and the door. The contiguous tunnel may have a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door. The contiguous tunnel may further have a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the panel.

[0010] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment system is disclosed. The animal containment system may include an animal containment device and a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, where the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The following description of the example aspects and / or embodiments may be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. It is understood that potential examples, aspects, and embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to those depicted. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example animal containment system including an example animal containment device installed in a cargo area of a vehicle according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0013] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E are perspective, side, rear, front, and bottom views, respectively, of another example animal containment system according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0014] FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are perspective views of another example animal containment system including an example first animal containment device attached to an example second animal containment device by an example locking bar assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0015] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D are rear and top views of another example animal containment system including an example first animal containment device attached to an example second animal containment device by an example locking bar assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0016] FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are perspective and side views of the example locking bar assembly shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D are perspective and bottom views of a portion of the example animal containment system shown in FIGS. 4 A, 4B, 4C, and 4D that illustrates the example locking bar assembly shown in FIGS. 4C, 4D. 5A, 5B, and 5C being attached to the locking bar attachment structures of the first and second animal containment devices shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0018] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, and 7G are perspective, bottom, and side view s of another- 3 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOexample locking bar assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 8A and 8B are side views of an example animal containment system including an example telescopically-deployable load leg according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 9A and 9B are side views of an example animal containment system including an example rotationally-deployable load leg according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0021] FIGS. 10A and 10B are side views of an example animal containment system including another example rotationally-deployable load leg having a center linkage assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0022] FIGS. 11 A and 11B are perspective views of an example animal containment system including another example telescopically-and-telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0023] FIGS. 12A, 12B. 12C, 12D, 12E, 12F. and 12G are front and cross-sectional side views of another example animal containment system including another example telescopically-deployable load leg having an example pivotable toggle assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0024] FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D. 13E, 13F, and 13G are perspective and bottom views of another example animal containment system including an example pair of wheels and example wheel lock mechanisms according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0025] FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C are side and bottom views of another example animal containment system including another example pair of wheels and example wheel lock mechanisms according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0026] FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C, 15D, and 15E are bottom views of another example animal containment system including another example pair of wheels and example wheel lock mechanisms according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0027] FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C are side and perspective views of another example animal containment system including an example wheel kit according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0028] FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, and 17D are perspective and side views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as atop multi-purpose accessory that is removably attachable to the example animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an example animal containment system including an example first collapsible animal containment device and an example second collapsible animal containment device installed in the rear cargo area of a vehicle according to aspects of the disclosure.- 4 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WO

[0030] FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C, and 19D are perspective, front, and side views of another example animal containment system including another example collapsible animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0031] FIGS. 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, and 20F are side and perspective views of the example collapsible animal containment device shown in FIGS. 19 A, 19B, 19C, and 19D transitioning from a collapsed storage configuration to an extended use configuration according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0032] FIGS. 21A, 21B, and 21C are perspective and side views of another example animal containment system including another example collapsible animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0033] FIGS. 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D, 22E, 22F, 22G, 22H, 221, and 22J are perspective, side, rear, front, and bottom views of another example animal containment system for airline travel including another example animal containment device and example removable accessory panels according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0034] FIGS. 23A, 23B, 23C, and 23D are perspective views of another example animal containment system for airline travel including another example animal containment device and example removable accessory panels according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of another example animal containment system for airline travel including another example animal containment device and example removable accessory' panels according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0036] FIGS. 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25E are perspective and side views of an example removable accessory panel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0037] FIGS. 26A and 26B are perspective views of another example removable accessory' panel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0038] FIGS. 27 A, 27B, 27C. and 27D are side and cross-sectional views of another example removable accessory panel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 28 is a bottom cross-sectional view of an example movable latch mechanism of an example removable accessory' panel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0040] FIGS. 29 A, 29B, and 29C are perspective and side views of another example removable accessory panel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0041] FIGS. 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E, 30F, and 30G are side, exploded, and bottom cross-sectional view's of an example removable accessory panel having example movable latch mechanisms with example secondary lock mechanisms according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0042] FIGS. 31A, 31B. and 31C are top, perspective, and rear cross sectional views of another- 5 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOexample animal containment system for airline travel including another example animal containment device and example removable accessory panels according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0043] FIGS. 32A and 32B are perspective and front views of an example door for an example animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0044] FIGS. 33A and 33B are perspective and side views of an example bowl device for an example animal containment system for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0045] FIGS. 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D are rear, side, and perspective views of another example bowl device for an example animal containment system for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0046] FIGS. 35A and 35B are perspective and close-up views of another example animal containment system for airline travel that includes the example bowl device of FIGS. 34A, 34B, 34C. and 34D mounted to an example animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0047] FIGS. 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, and 36E are perspective, rear, and side views of another example bowl device for an example animal containment system for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0048] FIGS. 37A and 37B are perspective and side views of another example animal containment system for airline travel that includes the example bowl device of FIGS. 36A, 36B, 36C, and 36D mounted to an example animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0049] FIGS. 38A, 38B. 38C. and 38D are rear and close-up views of another example animal containment system for airline travel including another example animal containment device having example tunnel structures defined through the door and rear panel thereof according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0050] FIGS. 39A and 39B are rear and close-up views of another example animal containment system for airline travel including another example animal containment device having example tunnel structures defined through the door and rear panel thereof according to aspects of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The present disclosure sets forth various aspects of animal containment systems, kits, and devices for securing a pet in a vehicle as well as in an airplane in accordance with airline compliance requirements for checked pets. In one example, the following list of requirements may be required for transporting an animal within the cargo space of an airplane: the animal containment- 6 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOdevice must have (i) a door that can be secured via cable ties (e.g., zip ties) if the door is comprised of plastic; (ii) food and water bowls within the containment space which may be replenished from outside the animal containment device; (iii) ventilation openings no larger than one inch by one inch (1” x 1”) if transporting a dog; and (iv) wheels that are removable, lockable, or otherwise “rendered inoperable” when in the airplane cargo space (if the animal containment device has wheels). In some aspects, for compliance with airline transportation requirements, the animal containment systems and devices described herein include: (i) a cable tie path defined through the rear panel and door that directs a cable tie through the panel and the door to prevent the door opening even if the door actuator is released; (ii) an airline panel that is attachable on the long ends of the containment device and restricts the ventilation openings on the animal containment device such that there are no ventilation opening larger than one square inch; (iii) a wheel lock to prevent the wheels from rotating; (iv) a food and water bowl that is securable to the side panel of the animal containment device; and (v) various accessories attachable to the exterior of the animal containment device, including a multi-purpose accessory bag and a wheeled dolly used to aide in transporting the animal containment device (e.g., between the parking lot and the check-in counter or baggage claim area). As such, the animal containment systems and devices described herein comply with airline guidelines and are also properly suited for pedestrian or vehicular transportation, providing, among other advantages, smaller ventilation holes for airline use and larger ventilation holes for non-airline use, as well as improved immobility for airline use and improved transportability for non-airline use.

[0052] It should be noted that the illustrations and descriptions of the examples, aspects, and embodiments shown in the figures are for example purposes only, and should not be construed limiting the disclosure. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure contemplates various examples, aspects, and embodiments. Additionally, it should be understood that the concepts described above with the above-described examples, aspects, and embodiments may be employed alone or in combination with any of the other examples, aspects, and embodiments described above. It should further be appreciated that the various alternative examples, aspects, and embodiments described above with respect to one illustrated example, aspect, or embodiment can apply to all examples, aspects, and embodiments as described herein, unless otherwise indicated.

[0053] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples, aspects, and embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could.” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or- 7 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOotherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain examples, aspects, and / or embodiments include, while other examples, aspects, and / or embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more examples, aspects, and / or embodiments or that one or more examples, aspects, and / or embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, w ith or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular example, aspect, and / or embodiment. The terms ‘"comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. For example, it will be understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” etc., when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and / or groups thereof. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, each numerical value and range should be interpreted as being approximate, as if the word “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” preceded the value or range, and is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.

[0054] In the following description, the terms “front” and “rear” are generally used with respect to a front and rear of a vehicle in which aspects of the present disclosure are used or intended to be used, unless otherwise stated. Thus, for example, a rear of an animal containment device is oriented toward a rear of vehicle or refers to a portion of the animal containment device intended to be orientated towards a rear of a vehicle. It should be further understood that reference to a "side" of the animal containment device is provided for ease of explanation, and that multiple different components of the animal containment device can define the exterior of the animal containment device and these exterior components are not necessarily orthogonal to the other "sides." Additionally, the terms "inside" and / or "interior" and / or "internal" may refer to features in a direction toward the center of the animal containment device, relative to a certain component of the animal containment device, and the terms "outside" and / or "exterior" and / or "external" may refer to features in a direction away from the center of the animal containment device, relative to a certain component of the animal containment device. The words “inward,” “outward,” “upper,” and “lower” refer to directions toward or away from, respectively, the geometric center of the- 8 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOcomponent. It will be understood that reference herein to “a” or “one” to describe a feature such as a component or step does not foreclose additional features or multiples of the feature. For instance, reference to a device having, comprising, including, or defining “one” of a feature does not preclude the device from having, comprising, including, or defining more than one of the feature, as long as the device has, comprises, includes, or defines at least one of the feature. Similarly, reference herein to “one of’ a plurality' of features does not foreclose the example, aspect, or embodiment from including two or more of the features. For instance, reference to a device having, comprising, including, or defining “one of a protrusion and a recess” does not foreclose the device from having both the protrusion and the recess.

[0055] The examples, aspects, and embodiments disclosed herein may be further understood with reference to the following description and the related appended drawings, wherein like elements are provided with the same reference numerals. The example aspects and embodiments describe an animal containment system and / or associated apparatuses for safely transporting animals (e.g., dogs) in a vehicle cargo area as well as in an airplane cargo area. In some example aspects and / or embodiments, the animal containment system features an animal containment device (e.g.. crate) for holding the animal that can be secured in a cargo area of either a vehicle or an airplane to securely transport the animal in the vehicle or the airplane.

[0056] In some aspects, the animal containment devices disclosed herein may include, or be referred to alternatively as, a pet carrier, a crate, a dog crate, a storage device, or another suitable device. Those skilled in the art will understand that the animal containment devices disclosed herein are configured to safely hold an animal during, for example, transportation of the animal in a moving vehicle and / or for transportation of the animal outside the vehicle. The animal containment devices disclosed herein can include or can be configured to cooperate with one or more load legs, wheels, locking bar assemblies, top multi-purpose accessories, and / or collapsible structures to position and secure the animal containment device within the vehicle. In some examples, aspects, and / or embodiments, the disclosure provides for alternative arrangements and geometries of the load legs, wheels, locking bar assemblies, top multi-purpose accessories, and / or collapsible structures to provide for improved safety7, energy7absorption, and / or ease of transformability' and use.

[0057] In some example aspects and / or embodiments, the disclosure provides for various animal containment systems, kits, and devices which can be secured in an airplane as well as in the cargo space of a vehicle. Although the disclosure may illustrate different examples, aspects, and embodiments, it is contemplated that features of individual examples, aspects, and / or embodiments may be combined or omitted. Therefore, the disclosure and claims are not intended to be limited to- 9 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe illustrated examples, aspects, and / or embodiments.

[0058] FIG. 1 is a side view of an example animal containment system 100 installed in a cargo area of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown, the cargo area of the vehicle includes a rear seat surface 2 of a rear vehicle seat 4 (e.g., the '‘vehicle seatback”), a floor 6, a ceiling 8, and at least one vehicle-mounted anchor, such as one or more load-bearing cargo area floor-mounted tie-down anchor points, cargo area sidewall-mounted tie-down anchor points, cargo area ceiling-mounted tie-down anchor points, rear door hinges, and / or exterior surfaces of the vehicle (e.g., vehicle frame, cargo rack, tailgate assembly).

[0059] The animal containment device 110 may be a portable, enclosed containment assembly or crate that includes a body 112 defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable, the body 112 including a cavity 120. The animal containment device 110 may include a base and at least one wall extending from the base upwardly and partially defining the cavity 120. For example, the animal containment device 110 may have a bottom panel 113, top panel 114, front panel 117, rear panel 119, first side panel 116, and second side panel 118 (not shown).

[0060] As shown, the animal containment system 100 may comprise an animal containment device 110 having a body 112 defining a cavi ty 120 within which an animal is receivable. As shown, the body 112 has a top panel 114 oriented facing a ceiling portion of the cargo area of the vehicle, a first side panel 116 oriented facing a first side wall of the cargo area of the vehicle, a second side panel 118 (not shown) oriented facing a second side w all of the cargo area of the vehicle opposite the first side wall of the cargo area of the vehicle, a front panel 117 oriented facing a rear seat surface of a vehicle seat (e.g.. a “front side’7of the cargo area of the vehicle), and a rear panel 119 (e g., an openable and closable panel having a pivoting bottom portion and a lockable top portion, as shown) oriented facing a rear wall or door of the cargo area of the vehicle (e.g., a “rear side” of the cargo area of the vehicle opposite the “front side” of the cargo area of the vehicle). In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment system 100 further includes a pair of wheels 141 (e.g., one or more wheel assemblies having lockable wheels) positioned proximate the front panel 117 (e.g., with a first wheel disposed toward the first side panel 116, and a second wheel disposed toward the second side panel 118). In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment system device 110 further includes one or more feet (e.g.. mounted to or formed integrally with the bottom panel 113), such as foot structures 143, to support the animal containment device 210 on a surface such as the floor 6.

[0061] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 110 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having first locking bar mounting portions 126A,- 10 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WO126B mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 116, and a second locking bar attachment structure having second locking bar mounting portions (not shown) mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel (not shown). In some aspects, the animal containment system 100 may further include a locking bar assembly (not shown) configured to attach (e.g., positively engage) to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 110 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the two animal containment devices in proximity to each other.

[0062] The animal containment system 100 further includes at least one tie-down strap assembly coupled to the animal containment device 110 and a load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle, such as a rear door hinge (e.g., a hinge of the cargo hatch), cargo area side- wall-mo unted anchor, cargo area floor-mounted anchor, or exterior surface of the vehicle (e.g., vehicle frame, cargo rack, tailgate assembly). Each tie-down strap assembly includes a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to a respective tie-down anchor assembly and a second end attachable to the load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle. Each tie-down strap assembly further includes a first fastening mechanism (e.g., a carabiner assembly) fixedly attached to the first end of the tiedown strap and removably attachable to the tie-down anchor, and a second fastening mechanism (e.g., another carabiner assembly) fixedly attached to the second end of the tie-down strap and removably attachable to the load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle. For example, the animal containment system 100 may include one, two, three, four, five, six, or any other suitable number of tie-down strap assemblies coupled to the animal containment device 110 and one or more loadbearing mounting structures of the vehicle, such as: two top tie-down strap assemblies removably attached to two portions of the top panel 114, respectively, and two top tie-down anchor assemblies (e.g., cargo area ceiling-mounted anchor points and / or rear door hinges), respectively ; two left-side tie-down strap assemblies removably attached to two portions of the first side panel 116, respectively, and two first side tie-down anchor assemblies (e.g., left-side cargo area side-mounted anchor points and / or floor-mounted anchor points), respectively; and two right-side tie-down strap assemblies removably attached to tw o portions of the second side panel 118, respectively, and two second side tie-down anchor assemblies (e.g., right-side cargo area side-mounted anchor points and / or floor-mounted anchor points), respectively.

[0063] In some aspects, the animal containment system 100 further includes at least one load leg. For example, as shown, the animal containment system 100 includes a deploy able load leg 140 coupled to the animal containment device 110 and extendable from the body 112 of the animal containment device to a rear seat surface 2 of the rear vehicle seat 4 of the vehicle. The deploy able- 11 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOload leg 140 may be may be installed or otherwise provide support against the rear seat surface 2 of the rear vehicle seat 4, which may also be referred to as the “vehicle seatback,” and configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the rear seat surface 2 to the animal containment device 110 during an impact event.

[0064] In some aspects, the deployable load leg 140 may be extendable away from the base of the animal containment device 110 toward a first portion or surface of the vehicle, such as the rear seat surface 2. As shown, the deployable load leg 140 may have a proximal portion 142 mounted to the body of the animal containment device 110 and a distal portion 144 configured to be in contact with the rear surface 4 of the vehicle seat 2. The deployable load leg 140 may be configured for movement between a retracted position (e.g., a “stored” position) with the distal portion 144 located proximate to or within the animal containment device 110 and an extended position (e.g.. a “deployed” or “use” position) with the distal portion spaced away from the animal containment device. For example, the deployable load leg 140 may be mounted on the front side of the animal containment device 110 toward the bottom side of the animal containment device 110, and this may reduce the amount of force transferred from the vehicle (e.g., through the rear surface 4 of the vehicle seat 2. or through the floor 6) to the animal containment device 110 during a crash. For example, the deployable load leg 140 may be utilized to provide support against the rear surface 4 of the vehicle seat 2 near a bottom area of the vehicle seat 2 and relatively close to where the vehicle seat mounts to the vehicle body.

[0065] In some aspects, the animal containment system 100 further includes at least one top energy-absorption assembly, such as atop brace, top rack, top panel, and / or other structure coupled to or formed (e.g., integrally as a single piece) with the top panel 114. For example, as shown, the animal containment system 100 includes atop energy-absorption assembly 150 that is coupled (e.g., removably attached, fixedly attached) to the animal containment device 110. As shown, the top energy-absorption assembly 150 extends at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device 110 toward a second portion or surface of the vehicle, such as the ceiling 8 of the rear cargo area of the vehicle, as shown. The top energy-absorption assembly 150 is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device 110 during an impact event. In some aspects, the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may be formed as one or more top multi-purpose accessories (e.g., backpacks, bags, pouches, or the like), top braces, top racks, top panels, and / or other suitable structures, as described in greater detail below7with reference to FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, and 17D.

[0066] In some aspects, the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may extend or be extendable away from the animal containment device 110 toward a portion of the vehicle. As shown, the top- 12 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOenergy-absorption assembly 150 may have a proximal portion 152 mounted to the body of the animal containment device 110 and a distal portion 154 configured to extend toward, and in some aspects to be in contact with, the ceiling 8. In some aspects, the hatch opening of the rear cargo area can be lower than the ceiling 8 in the rear cargo area of the vehicle, and the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may be retractable for insertion into and removal from the rear cargo area of the vehicle and extendable for installation and use in the rear cargo area of the vehicle. Additionally, or alternatively, in some aspects, and the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may be substantially flexible to compress to fit through the hatch opening and decompress once in the rear cargo area. Additionally, or alternatively, in some aspects, and the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may be configured to attach to the animal containment device 110 after the animal containment device 110 has been installed in the rear cargo area of the vehicle.

[0067] In some aspects, a user may place the animal containment system 100 on the floor 6 of the cargo area of the vehicle, behind the rear seat surface 2 and under the ceiling 8 of the vehicle. The position of the deployable load leg 140 of the animal containment system 100 may be extended away from the front panel 117 at a distance so when the deployable load leg 140 contacts the rear seat surface 2 of the vehicle seat 4, substantially no other part of the animal containment device 110 is able to contact the vehicle seat 2. The top energy-absorption assembly 150 of the animal containment system 100 may extend from the top panel 114 at a distance so when the top energy -absorption assembly 150 contacts the ceiling 8 of the vehicle, substantially no other part of the animal containment device 110 is able to contact the ceiling 8. The deployable load leg 140 and top energy-absorption assembly 150 may work in conjunction with the tie-down strap assemblies to ensure that the animal containment device 110 does not substantially contact the rear seat surface 2 and the ceiling 8, respectively. By adding energy-absorption structures as disclosed herein, the deployable load leg 140, the top energy-absorption assembly 150, and / or the tie-down strap assemblies are configured to absorb at least a portion of the impact forces during a crash and thereby reduce the forces exerted upon the animal contained within the animal containment device 110, further reducing injury.

[0068] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E are perspective, side, rear, front, and bottom views, respectively, of an example animal containment system 200 including an example animal containment device 210 according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 210 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 210 includes a bottom panel 213, top panel 214, front panel 217, rear panel 219. first side panel 216. and second side panel 218. As shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E, the- 13 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOanimal containment device 210 further includes a deployable load leg 240 and a pair of wheels 241 A, 24 IB positioned proximate the front panel 217. As shown, the pair of wheels 241 A, 24 IB includes a first wheel 241 A disposed toward the first side panel 216 and a second wheel 24 IB disposed toward the second side panel 218. In some aspects, the pair of wheels 241A, 241B may be included in one or more wheel assemblies having locking mechanisms configured to lock or unlock the pair of wheels 241A, 241B.

[0069] In some aspects, the animal containment device 210 may include one or more feet (e.g., each having a smooth bottom surface, a substantially slip-resistant bottom surface such as a rubbertype surface or coating, or any other suitable bottom surface) to support the animal containment device 210 on a surface such as the ground. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E, the animal containment device 210 may include a first foot structure 243 A mounted to or formed integrally with a first portion of the bottom panel 213, a second foot structure 243B mounted to or formed integrally with a second portion of the bottom panel 213, a third foot structure 243C mounted to or formed integrally with a third portion of the bottom panel 213, and a fourth foot structure 243D mounted to or formed integrally with a fourth portion of the bottom panel 213, where each of the foot structures 243A, 243B, 243C, and 243D is configured (e.g., arranged, dimensioned) to support the animal containment device 210 on a respective portion of a surface such as the ground. In some embodiments, the rear panel 219 may include additional crash protection features to protect an animal occupant when the rear panel 219 is oriented forward in a vehicle. For example, the rear panel 219 may be relatively thicker than other panels and / or may include resilient or crushable features.

[0070] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 210 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having first locking bar mounting portions 226A, 226B mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 216, and a second locking bar attachment structure having second locking bar mounting portions 228A, 228B mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 218. In some aspects, the animal containment system 200 may further include a locking bar assembly (not show n) configured to attach to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 210 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the two animal containment devices in proximity to each other.

[0071] FIGS. 3A, 3B, are 3C are perspective views of an example animal containment system 300 including an example first animal containment device 310 attached to an example second- 14 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOanimal containment device 320 by an example locking bar assembly 330 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the first animal containment device 310 includes a first base 313, at least one first wall 318 extending from the first base 313. and a first locking bar attachment structure (e.g., having one or more first locking bar mounting portions; not shown due to perspective view) coupled to (e.g., mounted to, fixedly attached to, formed integrally with, etc.) the at least one first wall 318. As show n, the second animal containment device 320 includes a second base 323, at least one second wall 326 extending from the second base 323, and a second locking bar attachment structure (e.g., having one or more second locking bar mounting portions; not shown due to perspective view) coupled to (e g., mounted to, fixedly attached to, formed integrally with, etc.) the at least one second wall 326. As shown, the locking bar assembly 330 is configured to attach to the second locking bar attachment structure and the first locking bar attachment structure to hold the second animal containment device 320 in proximity to the first animal containment device 310. In some aspects, as shown, when the locking bar assembly 330 is attached to the first animal containment device 310 and the second animal containment device 320, the second animal containment device 320 is rigidly connected to the first animal containment device 310. As used herein, the term “rigidly connected” means that the first animal containment device 310 and the second animal containment device 320 substantially do not move relative to each other (e.g., a user pulling on one of the devices 310, 320 will move both devices 310, 320).

[0072] FIGS. 4A and 4C are rear views and FIGS. 4B and 4D are top views of an example animal containment system 400 including an example first animal containment device 410 attached to an example second animal containment device 510 by an example locking bar assembly 630 according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0073] As shown, the first animal containment device 410 includes a first base and at least one first wall extending from the first base and at least partially defining a first enclosure having a first interior within which a first animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the first animal containment device 410 includes a first bottom panel 413, first top panel 414, first front panel 417, first rear panel 419, first side panel 416, and second side panel 418. As shown, the first animal containment device 410 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having first locking bar mounting portions 426A, 426B coupled to the first side panel 416. and a second locking bar attachment structure having second locking bar mounting portions 428 A, 428B coupled to the second side panel 418. As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4D, the first animal containment device 410 further includes a first deployable load leg 440 and a first pair of lockable wheels (not shown) positioned proximate the first front panel 417.- 15 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO

[0074] As shown, the second animal containment device 510 includes a second base and at least one second wall extending from the second base and at least partially defining a second enclosure having a second interior within which a second animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the second animal containment device 510 includes a second bottom panel 513, second top panel 514, second front panel 517, second rear panel 519, third side panel 516, and fourth side panel 518. As shown, the second animal containment device 510 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a third locking bar attachment structure having third locking bar mounting portions 526A, 526B coupled to the third side panel 516, and a fourth locking bar attachment structure having fourth locking bar mounting portions 528A, 528B coupled to the fourth side panel 518. As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4D, the second animal containment device 510 further includes a second deployable load leg 540 and a second pair of lockable wheels (not shown) positioned proximate the second front panel 517.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, the locking bar assembly 630 is configured to attach to the second locking bar attachment structure (e.g., as shown, to locking bar mounting portions 428A, 428B) of the first animal containment device 410 as well as to the third locking bar attachment structure (e.g.. as shown, to locking bar mounting portions 526A, 526B) of the second animal containment device 510 to hold or otherwise secure the first animal containment device 410 in proximity to the second animal containment device 510. In some aspects, as shown, when the locking bar assembly 630 is attached to the first locking bar attachment structure (e.g., as shown, to locking bar mounting portions 428A, 428B) of the first animal containment device 410 and the second locking bar attachment structure (e.g., as shown, to locking bar mounting portions 526A, 526B) of the second animal containment device 510, the second animal containment device 510 is rigidly connected to the first animal containment device 410. As used herein, the term “rigidly connected'’ means that the first animal containment device 410 and the second animal containment device 510 substantially do not move relative to each other (e.g., a user pulling on one of the devices 410, 510 will move both devices 410, 510).

[0076] FIG. 5A is a perspective view and FIGS. 5B and 5C are side views of the example locking bar assembly 630 shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the locking bar assembly 630 includes a rigid locking bar body 632 having a first end portion 633A and a second end portion 633B. As shown, the locking bar assembly 630 further includes a locking bar actuator 634, a first locking bar latch housing 635 having a first fixed latch structure 636A and a second fixed latch structure 638A, and a second locking bar latch housing 637 having a first deployable latch structure 636B and a second deployable latch structure 638B.

[0077] As shown, the locking bar actuator 634 is coupled to the first deployable latch structure- 16 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WO636B and the second deployable latch structure 638B such that: (i) when the locking bar actuator 634 is pressed (e.g., by a user) inward as shown in FIG. 5B, the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B are moved in a forward direction into a locked position configured to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the first animal containment device 410 in proximity to the second animal containment device 510 (e.g., such as when locking the locking bar assembly 630 after it has been installed); and (ii) when the locking bar actuator 634 is pulled (e.g., by a user) outw ard as shown in FIG. 5C, the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B are moved in a rearward direction into an unlocked position configured to release the first animal containment device 410 from the second animal containment device 510 (e.g., such as when installing or removing the locking bar assembly 630). It will be appreciated that the locking bar actuator 634 may be pressed and / or pulled via one-handed operation, providing relatively quick and easy installation of the locking bar assembly 630.

[0078] FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective views of a portion of the example animal containment system 400 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D that illustrates the example locking bar assembly 630 shown in FIGS. 4C, 4D, 5A, 5B, and 5C being attached to the second locking bar mounting portions 428A, 428B of the second locking bar attachment structure coupled to the second side panel 418 of the first animal containment device 410 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and4D, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 6A, the locking bar actuator 634 is pulled outward such that the deploy able latch structure 638B is in the retracted unlocked position. As further shown, the fixed latch structure 638A is inserted (e.g., rotatably or pivotably) into the opening defined by the locking bar mounting portion 428 A. As further shown, the deploy able latch structure 638B, which is in the retracted unlocked position, then is inserted into the opening defined by the locking bar mounting portion 428B.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 6B, the locking bar actuator 634 is pushed inward such that the deploy able latch structure 638B is in the extended locked position. As a result, with the fixed latch structure 638A inserted into the locking bar mounting portion 428A, and with the deployable latch structure 638B inserted into the locking bar mounting portion 428B and actuated into the extended locked position, the locking bar assembly 630 is configured to positively engage the first animal containment device 410.

[0081] FIGS. 6C and 6D are bottom views of a portion of the example animal containment system 400 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D that illustrates the example locking bar assembly 630 shown in FIGS. 4C, 4D, 5A, 5B, and 5C being attached to (i) the second locking bar mounting portions 428A, 428B of the second locking bar attachment structure coupled to the second side panel 418 of the first animal containment device 410 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C. and 4D and (ii)- 17 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe third locking bar mounting portions 526A, 526B of the thrid locking bar attachment structure coupled to the third side panel 516 of the second animal containment device 510 shown in FIGS.4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D. according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 6C, the locking bar actuator 634 is pulled outward such that each of the deploy able latch structures 636B, 638B are in the retracted unlocked position. As further shown, the fixed latch structures 636A, 638 A are inserted (e.g., rotatably or pivotably) into the opened structures defined by the locking bar mounting portions 526A, 428A, respectively. As further shown, the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B, which are in the retracted unlocked position, then are inserted into the opened structures defined by the locking bar mounting portions 526B, 428B, respectively.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 6D, the locking bar actuator 634 is pushed inward such that each of the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B is in the extended locked position. As a result, with the fixed latch structures 636A, 638A inserted into the locking bar mounting portions 526 A, 428A, respectively, and with the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B inserted into the locking bar mounting portions 526B, 428B, respectively, and actuated into the extended locked position, the locking bar assembly 630 is configured to positively engage the first animal containment device 410 and the second animal containment device 510 to hold (e.g., rigidly connect) the first animal containment device 410 in proximity to the second animal containment device 510.

[0084] In some aspects, the locking bar assembly 630 can be installed sequentially by connecting the fixed latch structures 636A, 638A (e.g., with the rigid locking bar body 632 tilted at an angle) and then connecting the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B (e.g., while lowering the front of the rigid locking bar body 632 to be substantially horizontal). In one illustrative and nonlimiting example, the locking bar assembly 630 can be attached to the animal containment devices 410, 510 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4C, 4D, and 6D) by: (i) inserting the fixed latch structures 636A, 638 A into the opened structures of the locking bar mounting portions 526 A, 428 A, with the second end portion 633B positioned or elevated above the first end portion 633A such that the rigid locking bar body 632 is tilted at an angle; (ii) lowering the second end portion 633B and inserting the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B into the opened structures of the locking bar mounting portions 526B, 428B, with the locking bar actuator 634 pulled outward (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5C and 6C); and (iii) pressing the locking bar actuator 634 inward (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5B and 6D) to move the deployable latch structures 636B, 638B into a locked position to rigidly connect the first animal containment device 410 in proximity to the second animal containment device 510.

[0085] FIG. 7A is a perspective view, FIG. 7B is a side view-, and FIGS. 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, and 7G are side views of an example locking bar assembly 730 according to aspects of the disclosure.- 18 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOAs shown, the locking bar assembly 730 includes a rigid locking bar body 732 having a first end portion 733A and a second end portion 733B. As shown, the locking bar assembly 730 further includes a locking bar actuator 734 (e.g., a spring-biased actuator), a first locking bar latch housing 735 having a first fixed latch structure 736A and a second fixed latch structure 738A, and a second locking bar latch housing 737 having a first deployable latch structure 736B and a second deployable latch structure 738B.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 7C, 7D, and 7E, the locking bar actuator 734 is coupled to the first deployable latch structure 736B and the second deployable latch structure 738B such that: (i) when the locking bar actuator 734 is pressed (e.g., by a user) upward as shown in FIGS. 7B, 7C, and 7G, the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B are moved in a forward direction into a retracted unlocked position configured to release a first animal containment device from a second animal containment device (e.g., such as when installing or removing the locking bar assembly 730); and (ii) when the locking bar actuator 734 is released and biased (e.g., by a spring) downw ard as shown in FIG. 7A and 7F, the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B are moved in a rearward direction into an extended locked position to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) a first animal containment device in proximity to a second animal containment device (e.g.. such as when locking the locking bar assembly 730 after it has been installed). For example, as shown in FIGS. 7F and 7G, a first portion of the locking bar actuator 734 is coupled to a first pivot mounting structure 764 (e.g., a pin or rod about which a portion of the locking bar actuator 734 can pivot) of the rigid locking bar body 732. As further shown, a first portion of the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B is coupled to a second pivot mounting structure 766 (e.g., a pin or rod about which a portion of the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B can pivot). As further shown, a second portion of the locking bar actuator 734 is coupled to a second portion of the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B by a third pivot mounting structure 765.

[0087] In some aspects, the locking bar assembly 730 can be installed sequentially by connecting the fixed latch structures 736A, 738A (e.g., with the rigid locking bar body 732 tilted at an angle) and then connecting the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B (e.g., while lowering the front of the rigid locking bar body 732 to be substantially horizontal). In one illustrative and nonlimiting example, the locking bar assembly 730 can be attached to two animal containment devices by: (i) inserting the fixed latch structures 736A, 738A into the opened structures of the respective locking bar mounting portions positioned toward the front panels of the animal containment devices, with the second end portion 733B positioned or elevated above the first end portion 733A such that the rigid locking bar body 732 is tilted at an angle: (ii) low ering the second end portion 733B and inserting the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B into the opened structures of the- 19 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOrespective locking bar mounting portions positioned towards the rear panels of the animal containment devices, with the locking bar actuator 734 pressed upw ard (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 7E and 7G) and (iii) releasing the locking bar actuator 734 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7F) to move the deployable latch structures 736B, 738B into a locked position to rigidly connect the animal containment devices in proximity to each other.

[0088] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 800 including an animal containment device 810 and an example telescopically-deployable load leg 840 in a retracted position according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the example animal containment system 800 of FIG. 8A having the example telescopically-deployable load leg 840 in an extended position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the animal containment device 810 includes a base 813, at least one wall 817 (e.g., a front wall or panel), and a telescopically-deployable load leg 840 positioned proximate the at least one wall 817 and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle. In some aspects, the telescopically-deployable load leg 840 may be provided as one or more telescopically-deployable load legs, such as a first telescopically-deployable load leg disposed proximate the front-left comer of the animal containment device 810 and a second telescopically-deployable load leg disposed proximate the front-right comer of the animal containment device 810. In other aspects, the telescopically-deployable load leg 840 may extend across the substantial entirety (e.g., 100 percent (%), 90%, 80%, 70%, etc.) of the at least one w all 817.

[0089] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the telescopically-deployable load leg 840 is configured to telescope between two positions: (i) a telescopically retracted or "‘stored’7position as shown in FIG. 8A; and (ii) a telescopically extended, deployed, or ‘‘use” position as shown in FIG. 8B. The stored position is when the telescopically-deployable load leg 840 is retracted as illustrated in FIG.8A, and the use position is when the telescopically-deployable load leg 840 is extended or otherwise deployed as illustrated in FIG. 8B. To transition from the stored position to the use position, the telescopically-deployable load leg 840 may be pulled out manually by a user (e.g., by applying a pulling force), such as when the animal containment system 800 is placed on the cargo area of the vehicle. In some aspects, when in the use position shown in FIG. 8B, the telescopically-deployable load leg 840 is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device 810 during an impact event (e.g., a vehicle crash, braking, or other rapid deceleration event).

[0090] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 900 including an animal containment device 910 and an example rotationally-deployable load leg 940 in a retracted position according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the- 20 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOexample animal containment system 900 of FIG. 9A having the example rotationally-deployable load leg 940 in an extended position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the animal containment device 910 includes a base 913, at least one wall 917 (e.g., a front wall or panel), and a rotationally-deployable load leg 940 positioned proximate the at least one wall 917 and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle. In some aspects, the rotationally-deployable load leg 940 may be provided as one or more rotationally-deployable load legs, such as a first rotationally-deployable load leg disposed proximate the front-left comer of the animal containment device 910 and a second rotationally-deployable load leg disposed proximate the front-right comer of the animal containment device 910. In other aspects, the rotationally-deployable load leg 940 may extend across the substantial entirety (e.g., 100%, 90%, 80%, 70%, etc.) of the at least one wall 917.

[0091] As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the rotationally-deployable load leg 940 is configured to rotate between two positions: (i) a rotationally retracted or “stored’" position as shown in FIG.9 A; and (ii) a rotationally extended, deployed, or “use” position as shown in FIG. 9B. The stored position is when the rotationally-deployable load leg 940 is retracted as illustrated in FIG. 9A, and the use position is when the rotationally-deployable load leg 940 is extended or otherwise deployed as illustrated in FIG. 9B. To transition from the stored position to the use position, the rotationally-deployable load leg 940 may be rotated outward manually by a user (e.g., by applying a rotational pulling force in a counterclockwise direction in the example view shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B), such as when the animal containment system 900 is placed on the cargo area of the vehicle. In some aspects, when in the use position shown in FIG. 9B, the rotationally-deployable load leg 940 is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device 910 during an impact event (e g., a vehicle crash, braking, or other rapid deceleration event).

[0092] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 1000 including an animal containment device 1010 and an example rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 in a retracted position according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the example animal containment system 1000 of FIG. 10A having the example rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 in an extended position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the animal containment device 1010 includes a base 1013, at least one wall 1017 (e.g., a front wall or panel), and a rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 positioned proximate the at least one wall 1017 and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle. As shown, the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 includes a center linkage assembly 1042 to provide additional strength upon impact. As shown, the center linkage assembly 1042 includes a first end portion that is pivotably attached to the at least one wall 1017 and a second end portion pivotably attached to the rotationally-deployable load leg- 21 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO1040. In some aspects, the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 may be provided as one or more rotationally-deployable load legs, such as a first rotationally-deployable load leg and first center linkage assembly disposed proximate the front-left comer of the animal containment device 1010 and a second rotationally-deployable load leg and second center linkage assembly disposed proximate the front-right comer of the animal containment device 1010. In other aspects, the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 may extend across the substantial entirety (e.g., 100%, 90%, 80%, 70%, etc.) of the at least one wall 1017 and include one or more center linkage assemblies.

[0093] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 is configured to rotate between two positions: (i) a rotationally retracted or “stored” position as shown in FIG. 10A; and (ii) a rotationally extended, deployed, or “use” position as shown in FIG. 10B. The stored position is when the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 is retracted as illustrated in FIG. 10 A, and the use position is when the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 is extended or otherwise deployed as illustrated in FIG. 10B. To transition from the stored position to the use position, the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 may be rotated outw ard manually by a user (e.g., by applying a rotational pulling force in a counterclockwise direction in the example view7shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B), such as when the animal containment system 1000 is placed on the cargo area of the vehicle. In some aspects, when in the use position shown in FIG. 10B, the rotationally-deployable load leg 1040 and the center linkage assembly 1042 are configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device 1010 during an impact event (e.g., a vehicle crash, braking, or other rapid deceleration event).

[0094] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 1100 including an animal containment device 1110 and an example telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 in a retracted position according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 1 IB is a perspective view of the example animal containment system 1100 of FIG. 11 A having the example telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 in an extended position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the animal containment device 1110 includes a base 1113, at least one wall 1117 (e.g., a front wall or panel), and a telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 positioned proximate the at least one wall 1117 and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle. As shown, the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 includes a rotational structure 1142 coupled to a telescoping structure 1144 to provide additional strength upon impact. As shown, the telescoping structure 1144 includes a first end portion that is telescopically (e.g., slidably) and pivotably (e.g., rotationally) attached to a first mounting assembly of the at least one wall 1117 and a second end portion pivotably attached to a first end portion of the rotational- 22 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOstructure 1142. As shown, the rotational structure 1142 further includes a second end portion that is pivotably (e.g., rotationally) attached to a second mounting structure of the at least one wall 1117.

[0095] In some aspects, the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 may be provided as one or more telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load legs, such as a first telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg disposed proximate the front-left comer of the animal containment device 1110 and a second telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg disposed proximate the front-right comer of the animal containment device 1110. In other aspects, the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 may extend across the substantial entirety (e.g., 100%, 90%, 80%, 70%, etc.) of the at least one wall 1117.

[0096] As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 is configured to rotate between two positions: (i) a rotationally retracted or “stored"’ position as shown in FIG. HA; and (ii) a rotationally extended, deployed, or “use” position as show n in FIG. 1 IB. The stored position is when the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 is retracted as illustrated in FIG. 11 A, and the use position is when the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 is extended or otherwise deployed as illustrated in FIG. 1 IB. To transition from the stored position to the use position, the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 may be rotated out ard manually by a user (e.g., by applying a rotational pulling force in a counterclockwise direction in the example view shown in FIGS. 11 A and 11B), such as when the animal containment system 1100 is placed on the cargo area of the vehicle. In some aspects, when in the use position shown in FIG. 11B, the telescopically-and-rotationally-deployable load leg 1140 is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device 1110 during an impact event (e.g., a vehicle crash, braking, or other rapid deceleration event).

[0097] FIG. 12A is a front view and FIGS. 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E, 12F, and 12G are cross-sectional side views of an example animal containment system 1200 including an example animal containment device 1210 and an example telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 having an example pivotable toggle assembly 1242 according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 1210 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1210 includes a bottom panel 1213, top panel 1214, front panel 1217, rear panel 1219, first side panel 1216, and second side panel 1218. In some aspects, the animal containment device 1210 may include one or more feet (e.g., each having a smooth bottom surface, a substantially slip-resistant bottom surface such as a rubber-type surface or coating, or any other suitable bottom surface) to support the animal containment device 1210 on a surface such as- 23 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe ground. For example, as show n, the animal containment device 1210 may include a first foot structure 1293A mounted to or formed integrally with a first portion of the bottom panel 1213, a second foot structure 1293B mounted to or formed integrally with a second portion of the bottom panel 1213, a third foot structure 1293C mounted to or formed integrally with a third portion of the bottom panel 1213, and a fourth foot structure (not shown) mounted to or formed integrally with a fourth portion of the bottom panel 1213, where each of the foot structures is configured to support the animal containment device 1210 on a respective portion of a surface such as the ground. In some aspects, the feet may be configured to rest on the ground, and the wheels may be configured to be positioned above the ground without contacting the ground when the feet are resting on the ground. For example, as show n in FIGS. 12A and 12G, when the foot structures 1293 A, 1293B are resting on the ground 26, the wheels 1241 A, 124 IB are positioned above the ground 26 and do not contact the ground 26. In some aspects, the wheels 1241 A, 1241B are configured to contact the ground 26 and roll along the ground 26 when the animal containment device 1210 is tilted, with the bottom of the rear panel 1219 positioned above the bottom of the front panel 1217, and with the foot structures 1293A, 1293B positioned above the ground 26 and not contacting the ground 26.

[0098] As shown, the animal containment device 1210 further includes a telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 and a pivotable toggle assembly 1242 positioned proximate the front panel 1217. As shown, the pivotable toggle assembly 1242 includes a rigid pivotable toggle assembly body 1243, a first end portion 1244A (e.g., a user input end), a second end portion 1244B (e.g., a lock end), a pivotable mounting structure 1246, and a biasing spring 1247. As shown, the animal containment device 1210 includes a ramp structure 1254, a pocket structure 1256, and a locking slot structure 1258. As shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C, the first end portion 1244A is configured to retain the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 in a retracted position by engaging the ramp structure 1254. As shown in FIGS. 12F and 12G, the second end portion 1244B is configured to lock the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 in an extended position by engaging the locking slot structure 1258.

[0099] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 1210 further includes a pair of wheels 1241A, 1241B positioned proximate the front panel 1217. As shown, the pair of wheels 1241A, 1241B includes a first wheel 1241 A disposed toward the first side panel 1216 and a second wheel 1241B disposed toward the second side panel 1218. In some aspects, the pair of wheels 1241 A, 1241B may be included in one or more wheel assemblies having locking mechanisms configured to lock or unlock the pair of wheels 1241 A, 124 IB. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 1210 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment- 24 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOstructure having one or more first locking bar mounting portions 1226 mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 1216. and a second locking bar attachment structure having one or more second locking bar mounting portions 1228 mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 1218. In some aspects, the animal containment system 1200 may further include a locking bar assembly (not shown) configured to attach to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 1210 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the two animal containment devices in proximity to each other.

[0100] FIGS. 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E, 12F, and 12G are cross-sectional side views of the example animal containment system 1200 with a substantial portion of the first side panel 1216 removed as indicated by the cross-sectional line A- A’ shown in FIG. 12A.

[0101] As shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C, the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 and the pivotable toggle assembly 1242 are illustrated in a retracted position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, in the retracted position, the biasing spring 1247 is configured to spring-bias the rigid pivotable toggle assembly body 1243 in a clockwise direction such that the first end portion 1244A engages the ramp structure 1254 of the animal containment device 1210 and the second end portion 1244B is disposed within a cavity defined by the pocket structure 1256 of the animal containment device 1210 to retain the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 in the extended position.

[0102] As shown in FIGS. 12D and 12E. the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 and the pivotable toggle assembly 1242 are illustrated in a transitional state moving from the retracted position to an extended position according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0103] As show n, when a user pulls the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 in an outward direction, the first end portion 1244A slides substantially downward along the ramp structure 1254 to rotate the rigid pivotable toggle assembly body 1243 in a counter-clockwise direction to move the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0104] As shown in FIGS. 12F and 12G, the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 and the pivotable toggle assembly 1242 are illustrated in an extended position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, in the extended position, the biasing spring 1247 is configured to spring-bias the rigid pivotable toggle assembly body 1243 in a clockwise direction such that the first end portion 1244A engages a portion of the exterior surface of the front panel 1217 of the animal containment device 1210 and the second end portion 1244B is disposed within the locking slot structure 1258 of the animal containment device 1210 to lock the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 in the- 25 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOextended position. In some aspects, a user may press down on the exposed first end portion 1244A to rotate the rigid pivotable toggle assembly body 1243 in a counter-clockwise direction to move the telescopically-deployable load leg 1240 from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0105] FIG. 13A is an exploded perspective view of an example animal containment system 1300 including an example animal containment device 1310 and an example pair of wheels 1341 A, 1341B and example wheel lock mechanisms 1342A, 1342B (e.g., wheel lock assemblies) according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the animal containment device 1310 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1310 includes a bottom panel 1313A, a floor panel 1313B, top panel 1314, front panel 1317, rear panel 1319, first side panel 1316, and second side panel 1318. As shown, the animal containment device 1310 further includes a deployable load leg 1340 positioned (e.g., mounted, affixed, or otherwise disposed) proximate the floor panel 1313B and the front panel 1317. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 1310 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having one or more first locking bar mounting portions 1326A, 1326B mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 1316, and a second locking bar attachment structure having one or more second locking bar mounting portions (not shown due to perspective view) mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 1318. In some aspects, the animal containment system 1300 may further include a locking bar assembly (not shown) configured to attach to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 1310 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the two animal containment devices in proximity to each other.

[0106] As shown, the animal containment device 1310 further includes a pair of wheels 1341A, 134 IB and wheel lock mechanisms 1342A, 1342B positioned proximate the floor panel 1313B and the front panel 1317. As shown, the pair of wheels 1341A, 1341B and wheel lock mechanisms 1342A, 1342B include a first wheel 1341A and a first wheel lock mechanism 1342A disposed toward the first side panel 1316 and a second wheel 1341B, and a second wheel lock mechanism 1342B disposed toward the second side panel 1318. In some aspects, wheel lock mechanisms 1342A, 1342B are configured to lock or unlock the pair of wheels 1341 A, 134 IB.

[0107] FIG. 13B is an exploded perspective view of the pair of wheels 1341 A, 1341B, the wheel lock mechanisms 1342A, 1342B, and the floor panel 1313B according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 13B, the wheel lock mechanisms 1342A. 1342B include a first wheel lock- 26 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOmechanism 1342A having a first wheel lock actuator 1343 A and a first wheel lock pin 1344A configured to lock and unlock the rotatability of the first wheel 1341 A. As further shown in FIG.13B. the wheel lock mechanisms 1342A. 1342B include a second wheel lock mechanism 1342B having a second wheel lock actuator 1343B and a second wheel lock pin 1344B configured to lock and unlock the rotatability of the second wheel 134 IB.

[0108] FIG. 13C is a perspective view of the first wheel 1341 A according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the first wheel 1341A includes a plurality of opened structures 1345A configured to receive the first wheel lock pin 1344A to lock the first wheel 1341A such that the first wheel 1341A cannot rotate. Similarly, the second wheel 1341B includes a plurality of opened structures 1345B configured to receive the second wheel lock pin 1344B to lock the second wheel 1341B such that the second wheel 1341B cannot rotate.

[0109] FIGS. 13D and 13E are bottom views of the animal containment system 1300 showing the pair of wheels 1341A, 1341B and wheel lock mechanisms 1342A, 1342B of the animal containment device 1310 in an unlocked position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 13E, a user may slide the first wheel lock actuator 1343A away from the first wheel 1341A to remove the first wheel lock pin 1344A from one of the plurality of opened structures 1345 A defined in the first wheel 1341 A such that the first wheel 1341 A is unlocked and able to rotate. Similarly, a user may slide the second wheel lock actuator 1343B away from the second wheel 1341B to remove the second wheel lock pin 1344B from one of the plurality' of opened structures 1345B defined in the second wheel 1341B such that the second wheel 1341B is unlocked and able to rotate.

[0110] FIGS. 13F and 13G are bottom views of the animal containment system 1300 showing the pair of wheels 1341A, 1341B and wheel lock mechanisms 1342A, 1342B of the animal containment device 1310 in a locked position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 13G, a user may slide the first wheel lock actuator 1343A toward the first wheel 1341A to insert the first wheel lock pin 1344A into one of the plurality' of opened structures 1345A defined in the first wheel 1341 A such that the wheel 1341 A is locked and unable to rotate. Similarly, a user may slide the second wheel lock actuator 1343B toward the second wheel 1341B to insert the second wheel lock pin 1344B into one of the plurality of opened structures 1345B defined in the second wheel 134 IB such that the second wheel 134 IB is locked and unable to rotate.[OHl] FIG. 14A is a side view of an example animal containment system 1400 including an example animal containment device 1410 and an example pair of yvheels 1441A, 1441B and example wheel lock mechanisms 1442A, 1442B (e.g., wheel lock assemblies) according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the animal containment device 1410 includes a base and at least one- 27 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOwall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1410 includes a bottom panel 1413, top panel 1414, front panel 1417. rear panel 1419, first side panel 1416. and second side panel 1418. As shown, the animal containment device 1410 further includes a deployable load leg 1440 positioned proximate the front panel 1417. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 1410 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having one or more first locking bar mounting portions 1426A, 1426B mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 1416, and a second locking bar attachment structure having one or more second locking bar mounting portions (not shown due to side view) mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 1418. In some aspects, the animal containment system 1400 may further include a locking bar assembly (not shown) configured to attach to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 1410 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the two animal containment devices in proximity to each other.

[0112] As shown, the animal containment device 1410 further includes a pair of wheels 1441 A, 1441B and wheel lock mechanisms 1442A, 1442B positioned proximate the front panel 1417. As shown, the pair of wheels 1441 A, 144 IB and wheel lock mechanisms 1442A, 1442B include a first wheel 1441A and a first wheel lock mechanism 1442A disposed toward the first side panel 1416 and a second wheel 1441B, and a second wheel lock mechanism 1442B disposed toward the second side panel 1418. In some aspects, wheel lock mechanisms 1442A, 1442B are configured to lock or unlock the pair of wheels 1441A, 1441B.

[0113] FIGS. 14B and 14C are cross-sectional bottom views of the example animal containment system 1400 with a substantial portion of the bottom panel 1413 removed as indicated by the cross-sectional line B-B ’ shown in FIG. 14A. As shown, the pair of wheels 1441A, 1441B and wheel lock mechanisms 1442A, 1442B of the animal containment device 1410 are in a locked position. As shown in FIG. 14C, a user may slide the first wheel lock actuator 1443A toward the first wheel 1441A to insert the first wheel lock pin 1444A into one of the plurality of opened structures 1445A defined in the first wheel 1441A such that the wheel 1441 A is locked and unable to rotate. Similarly, a user may slide the second wheel lock actuator 1443B toward the second wheel 1441B to insert the second wheel lock pin 1444B into one of the plurality of opened structures 1445B defined in the second wheel 1441B such that the second wheel 1441B is locked and unable to rotate.

[0114] In some aspects, (not shown), a user may slide the first wheel lock actuator 1443A away- 28 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOfrom the first wheel 1441 A to remove the first wheel lock pin 1444 A from one of the plurality of opened structures 1445A defined in the first wheel 1441A such that the first wheel 1441A is unlocked and able to rotate. Similarly, in some aspects (not shown), a user may slide the second wheel lock actuator 1443B away from the second wheel 144 IB to remove the second wheel lock pin 1444B from one of the plurality of opened structures 1445B defined in the second wheel 144 IB such that the second wheel 1441B is unlocked and able to rotate.

[0115] FIGS. 15 A, 15B, 15C, and 15D are bottom views of an example animal containment system 1500 including an example animal containment device 1510 and an example pair of wheels 1541 A, 1541B and example wheel lock mechanisms 1542A, 1542B (e g., wheel lock assemblies) according to aspects of the disclosure. As show n, the animal containment device 1510 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1510 includes a floor panel (hidden from view to improve the visibility of other structures), a bottom panel 1513, top panel (not shown due to bottom view), front panel 1517, rear panel 1519, first side panel 1516, and second side panel 1518. As shown, the animal containment device 1510 further includes a deployable load leg 1540 positioned proximate the front panel 1517. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 1510 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having one or more first locking bar mounting portions (not shown due to bottom view) mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 1516, and a second locking bar attachment structure having one or more second locking bar mounting portions (not shown due to bottom view) mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 1518. In some aspects, the animal containment system 1500 may further include a locking bar assembly (not shown) configured to attach to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 1510 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the two animal containment devices in proximity to each other.

[0116] As shown, the animal containment device 1510 further includes a pair of w heels 1541 A, 1541B and wheel lock mechanisms 1542A. 1542B positioned proximate the front panel 1517. As shown, the pair of wheels 1541A, 1541B and wheel lock mechanisms 1542A, 1542B include a first wheel 1541 A and a first wheel lock mechanism 1542 A disposed toward the first side panel 1516 and a second wheel 1541B, and a second wheel lock mechanism 1542B disposed toward the second side panel 1518. In some aspects, wheel lock mechanisms 1542A, 1542B are configured to lock or unlock the pair of wheels 1541A, 1541B.- 29 - 9513043.2Atomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO

[0117] FIGS. 15A and 15B are botom views of the animal containment system 1500 showing the pair of wheels 1541A, 1541B and wheel lock mechanisms 1542A, 1542B of the animal containment device 1510 in an unlocked position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 15B, a user may slide the second wheel lock actuator 1543B away from the second wheel 154 IB to remove the second wheel lock pin 1544B from one of the plurality of opened structures 1545B defined in the second wheel 1541B such that the second wheel 1541B is unlocked and able to rotate. Similarly, a user may slide the first wheel lock actuator away from the first wheel 1541 A to remove the first wheel lock pin from one of the plurality of opened structures defined in the first wheel 1541 A such that the first wheel 1541 A is unlocked and able to rotate.

[0118] FIGS. 15C, 15D, and 15E are bottom views of the animal containment system 1500 showing the pair of wheels 1541A, 154 IB and wheel lock mechanisms 1542A, 1542B of the animal containment device 1510 in a locked position according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 15D and 15E, a user may slide the second wheel lock actuator 1543B toward the second wheel 154 IB to insert the second wheel lock pin 1544B into one of the plurality of opened structures 1545B defined in the second wheel 1541B such that the second wheel 1541B is locked and unable to rotate. Similarly, a user may slide the first wheel lock actuator toward the first wheel 1541A to insert the first wheel lock pm into one of the plurality of opened structures defined in the first wheel 1541 A such that the wheel 1541 A is locked and unable to rotate.

[0119] As show n in FIGS. 15B, 15D, and 15E, the second wheel lock actuator 1543B includes an unlocked detent 1552B, a locked detent 1554B, and a substantially flexible portion 1562B disposed between the two detents 1552B, 1554B. Each of the two detents 1552B, 1554B is configured to receive a second retainer structure 1560B disposed on the botom panel 1513 to retain the second wheel lock mechanisms 1542B in the unlocked or locked position, respectively. For example, when in the unlocked position shown in FIG. 15B, the unlocked detent 1552B engages the second retainer structure 1560B to retain the second wheel lock actuator 1543B and the second wheel lock pin 1544B of the second wheel lock mechanisms 1542B in the unlocked position. In another example, when in the locked position shown in FIG. 15D, the locked detent 1554B engages the second retainer structure 1560B to retain the second wheel lock actuator 1543B and the second wheel lock pin 1544B of the second wheel lock mechanisms 1542B in the locked position. Similarly the first wheel lock actuator may include an unlocked detent, a locked detent, and a substantially flexible portion disposed between the two detents, each of which may be configured to receive a first retainer structure disposed on the botom panel 1513 to retain the first wheel lock mechanisms 1542A in the unlocked or locked position, respectively.

[0120] In some aspects, as shown in FIG. 15E, the second wheel lock actuator 1543B may- 30 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOinclude a second spring 1570B configured to spring-bias the second wheel lock pin 1544B to allow the second wheel lock pin 1544B to slightly retract until the second wheel 1541B is rotated such that one of the plurality of opened structures 1545B defined in the second wheel 154 IB aligns with the second wheel lock pin 1544B. It is to be understood that FIG. 15E shows the second wheel lock actuator 1543B in a semi-transparent manner to reveal the second wheel lock pin 1544B and the second spring 1570B for purposes of illustration. Similarly, the first wheel lock actuator may include a first spring configured to spring-bias the first wheel lock pin to allow the first wheel lock pin to slightly retract until the first wheel 1541 A is rotated such that one of the plurality of opened structures defined in the first wheel 1541 A aligns with the first wheel lock pin.

[0121] FIG. 16A is a side view7of an example animal containment system 1600 including an example animal containment device 1610 and an example wheel kit 1680 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the animal containment device 1610 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1610 includes a bottom panel 1613, top panel 1614, front panel 1617, rear panel 1619, first side panel 1616, and second side panel 1618. As shown, the animal containment device 1610 further includes a deployable load leg 1640 positioned proximate the front panel 1617. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 1610 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having one or more first locking bar mounting portions 1626A, 1626B mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 1616, and a second locking bar attachment structure having one or more second locking bar mounting portions (not shown due to side view) mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 1618. In some aspects, the animal containment system 1600 may further include a locking bar assembly (not shown) configured to attach to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 1610 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure (e.g., rigidly connect) the two animal containment devices in proximity7to each other.

[0122] As shown, the animal containment device 1610 further includes a pair of wheels 1641A, 1641B and wheel lock mechanisms 1642A, 1642B (e.g.. wheel lock assemblies) positioned proximate the front panel 1617. As shown, the pair of wheels 1641 A, 164 IB and wheel lock mechanisms 1642A, 1642B include a first wheel 1641 A and a first wheel lock mechanism 1642A disposed tow ard the first side panel 1616 and a second wheel 1641B, and a second wheel lock mechanism 1642B disposed toward the second side panel 1618. In some aspects, wheel lock- 31 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOmechanisms 1642A, 1642B are configured to lock or unlock the pair of wheels 1641A, 1641B. In some aspects, each of the wheel lock mechanisms 1642A, 1642B may include a respective wheel lock actuator and wheel lock pin. In some aspects, a user may slide the respective wheel lock actuator toward the respective wheel 1641 A, 1641B to insert the respective wheel lock pin into one of a plurality of opened structures defined in the respective wheel 1 41 A, 164 IB such that the respective wheel 1641A, 1641B is locked and unable to rotate. In some aspects, a user may slide the respective wheel lock actuator away from the respective wheel 1641 A, 164 IB to remove the respective wheel lock pin from one of the plurality of opened structures defined in the respective wheel 1641A, 1641B such that the respective wheel 1641 A, 1641B is unlocked and able to rotate.

[0123] As shown, the wheel kit 1680 includes a handle 1684, an inner telescoping member 1683B, an outer telescoping member 1683A, a quick-connection member 1682, and a pair of wheels 1681A, 1681B. As shown, the pair of wheels 1681A, 1681B are disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member 1682, the quick-connection member 1682 is pivotably mounted to a first end portion of the outer telescoping member 1683 A, a second end portion of the outer telescoping member 1683 A is telescopically mounted to a first end portion of the inner telescoping member 1683B, and a second end portion of the inner telescoping member 1683B is mounted to the handle 1684. As show n, the top side of the quick-connection member 1682 may be releasably attached to the bottom side of the bottom panel 1613 proximate the rear panel 1619.

[0124] In some aspects, the wheel kit 1680 is configured to transform between tw o positions: (i) an extended, deployed, or “use"’ position as shown in FIGS 16A and 16B to provide for improved transportability of the animal containment device 1610 when attached to the animal containment device 1610; and (ii) a collapsed, retracted, or “stored’’ position as shown in FIG. 16C to provide for improved stow ability of the w heel kit 1680 (e.g., for storage in luggage or on the top panel 1614 of the animal containment device 1610) w hen removed from the animal containment device 1610, where the inner telescoping member 1683B is inserted into the outer telescoping member 1683 A, and the outer telescoping member 1683 A is pivotably rotated underneath the quick-connection member 1682.

[0125] FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, and 17D are perspective and side views of an example animal containment system 1700 including an example animal containment device 1710 having a top energy-absorption assembly 1750 formed as atop multi-purpose accessory, such as atop backpack accessory 1756 (e.g., an accessory bag), that is removably attachable to the animal containment device 1710, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 1710 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal- 32 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOcontainment device 1710 includes a bottom panel 1713, top panel 1714, front panel 1717, rear panel 1719, first side panel 1716, and second side panel 1718. In some aspects (not shown), the animal containment device 1710 further includes a deployable load leg and a pair of lockable wheels positioned proximate the front panel 1717. In some aspects, as shown in FIG. 17A, the animal containment device 1710 further includes left-side locking bar mounting portions 1722C and 1722D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 1718 of the animal containment device 1710, and right-side locking bar mounting portions (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 1716 of the animal containment device 1710.

[0126] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the animal containment device 1710 further includes a top energy-absorption assembly 1750 formed as a top backpack accessory' 1756 (e.g.. an accessory bag). In some aspects, the top backpack accessory 1756 may be formed of fabric, plastic, metal, and / or any other suitable material. For example, the top backpack accessory' 1756 may be formed of a suitably rigid or crushable material (e.g., thermoformed, plastic, or metal subframe with fabric softgoods, etc.) to function as a top brace. In some aspects, as shown, the top backpack accessory 1756 includes one or more locking mechanisms 1770 configured to engage with one or more mounting structures 1760 (e.g., posts or other suitable geometric structures) disposed on the top panel 1714 in a recessed portion 1715 of the top panel 1714. In some aspects, the recessed portion 1715 of the top panel 1714 is arranged and sized to receive a bottom portion of the top backpack accessory 1756 to reduce or substantially prevent movement of the top backpack accessory 1756 when attached to the animal containment device 1710.

[0127] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 17C and 17D, the top backpack accessory 1756 may be removed from the animal containment device 1710 and attached to a backpack adapter 1780 having shoulder straps 1782 and mounting structures 1784 (e.g., posts or other suitable geometric structures) configured to engage the one or more locking mechanisms 1770 of the top backpack accessory 1756 to form a backpack as shown in FIG. 17D. Additionally, or alternatively, in some aspects, one or more other multi-functional accessories (e.g., storage devices, bins, foam blocks, softgoods assemblies, etc.) may be attached to the one or more mounting structures 1760 of the animal containment device 1710 to provide top energy-absorption functionality. In some aspects, the one or more other multi-functional accessories may be removed from the animal containment device 1710 and attached to one or more other multi-functional accessory adapters, such as a harness adapter to clip the multi-functional accessory (e.g., bag) to a pet, a strap to convert the multi-functional accessory to a crossbody or sling bag, or any other suitable component.

[0128] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 1800 including- 33 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOan example first collapsible animal containment device 181 and an example second collapsible animal containment device 1820 installed in the rear cargo area of a vehicle according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0129] FIG. 19A is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 1900 including an example collapsible animal containment device 1910 in an extended configuration according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 19B is a perspective view, FIG. 19C is a front view, and FIG. 19D is a side view of the example collapsible animal containment device 1910 in a collapsed configuration according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the collapsible animal containment device 1910 includes a base panel 1913, a top panel 1914, and a plurality of sidewalls including a left sidewall panel 1916, a right sidewall panel 1918, a front sidewall panel 1917, and a back sidewall panel 1919 (e.g., openable to permit entry and exit of a pet). As shown, the front sidewall panel 1917 is pivotably attached, by a first hinge assembly 1927. to a first portion of the base panel 1913, and the back sidewall panel 1919 is pivotably attached, by a second hinge assembly 1929, to a second portion of the base panel 1913. In some aspects, the collapsible animal containment device 1910 may further include any combination of other elements, structures, aspects, and / or features disclosed herein, such as locking bar attachment structures, a locking bar assembly, a deployable load leg, a pivotable toggle assembly, wheels, a wheel kit, and / or a top energy-absorption assembly (e.g., formed as atop multi-purpose accessory such as a backpack).

[0130] As shown in FIG. 19A, the collapsible animal containment device 1910 has an extended configuration (e.g., for use) in which the plurality of sidewalls extend from the base panel 1913 and the top panel 1914 extends upwards away from the plurality of sidewalls and toward a ceiling of the vehicle. As shown in FIGS. 19B, 19C, and 19D, the collapsible animal containment device 1910 further has a collapsed configuration (e.g., for shipment and / or storage) in which the base panel 1913, the front sidewall panel 1917, the back sidewall panel 1919, and the top panel 1914 are disposed between the left sidewall panel 1916 and the right sidewall panel 1918, with the front sidewall panel 1917 and the back sidewall panel 1919 rotated inward and oriented substantially parallel to the base panel 1913.

[0131] FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C are side views and FIGS. 20D, 20E, and 20F are perspective views of the example collapsible animal containment device 1910 transitioning from a collapsed storage configuration (e.g.. shown in FIGS. 20A, 19B. 19C. and 19D) to an extended use configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 20F and 19A) during the assembly of the collapsible animal containment device 1910 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 20A, the front sidewall panel 1917 and the back sidewall panel 1919 rotated inward and oriented substantially parallel to the base panel 1913. As shown in FIG. 20B. the front sidewall panel 1917 is rotated- 34 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOoutward about the first hinge assembly 1927 such that the front sidewall panel 1917 extends upward and away from the base panel 1913. As show n in FIG. 20C, the back sidewall panel 1919 is rotated outward about the second hinge assembly 1929 such that the back sidewall panel 1919 extends upward and away from the base panel 1913. As shown in FIG. 20D, the right sidewall panel 1918 is attached to the base panel 1913, the front sidewall panel 1917, and the back sidewall panel 1919. As shown in FIG. 20E, the left sidewall panel 1916 is attached to the base panel 1913, the front sidewall panel 1917. and the back sidewall panel 1919. As shown in FIG. 20F, the top panel 1914 is attached to the left sidewall panel 1916, the right sidewall panel 1918, the front sidewall panel 1917, and the back sidewall panel 1919 to provide the extended configuration of the collapsible animal containment device 1910. In some aspects, these acts may be performed in reverse order to transition the collapsible animal containment device 1910 from the extended use configuration shown in FIGS. 20F and 19A to the collapsed storage configuration shown in FIGS. 20A, 19B, 19C, and 19D. As shown in FIGS. 19A and 19D, the panels (e.g., one or more of base panel 1913, top panel 1914, left sidewall panel 1916, front sidewall panel 1917, right sidewall panel 1918, back sidewall panel 1919) include frame elements at the perimeter comers thereof that connect together to form a continuous rigid perimeter frame when the collapsible animal containment device 1910 is assembled (as shown in FIG. 19A).

[0132] FIG. 21 A is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 2100 including an example collapsible animal containment device 2110 in an extended configuration according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 21B is a perspective view and FIG. 21C is a side view of the example collapsible animal containment device 2110 in a collapsed configuration according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the collapsible animal containment device 2110 includes a base panel 2113, atop panel 2114, and a plurality of sidewalls including a left sidewall panel 2116, a right sidewall panel 2118, a front sidewall panel 2117, and a back sidewall panel 2119 (e.g., openable to permit entry and exit of a pet). As shown, the front sidewall panel 2117 is pivotably attached, by a first hinge assembly 2127, to a first portion of the base panel 2113, and the back sidewall panel 2119 is pivotably attached, by a second hinge assembly 2129, to a second portion of the base panel 2113. In some aspects, the collapsible animal containment device 2110 may further include any combination of other elements, structures, aspects, and / or features disclosed herein, such as locking bar attachment structures, a locking bar assembly, a deployable load leg, a pivotable toggle assembly, wheels, a wheel kit, and / or a top energy-absorption assembly (e.g., formed as a top multi-purpose accessory such as a backpack).

[0133] As shown in FIG. 21 A, the collapsible animal containment device 2110 has an extended configuration (e.g., for use) in which the plurality of sidewalls extend from the base panel 2113 and- 35 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe top panel 2114 extends upwards away from the plurality of sidewalls and toward a ceiling of the vehicle. As shown in FIGS. 21B and 21C, the collapsible animal containment device 2110 further has a collapsed configuration (e.g., for shipment and / or storage) in which the base panel 2113, the front sidewall panel 2117, the back sidewall panel 2119, and the left sidewall panel 2116 are disposed between the top panel 2114 and the right sidewall panel 2118, with the front sidewall panel 2117 and the back sidewall panel 2119 rotated inw ard and oriented substantially parallel to the base panel 2113.

[0134] FIGS. 22A, 22B. 22C. 22D, 22E, 22F. 22G. 22H, 221. and 22J show an example animal containment system 2200 for airline travel including an example animal containment device 2210 and example removable accessory7panels 2256 and 2258 according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 22A, 22C, 22D, 22E, and 22F are perspective, side, rear, front, and bottom views, respectively, of the animal containment system 2200 including the example animal containment device 2210 with the removable accessory panels 2256 and 2258 removed. FIGS. 22B, 22G, 22H, 221, and 22J are perspective, side, rear, front, and bottom views, respectively, of the animal containment system 2200 including the example animal containment device 2210 with the removable accessory panels 2256 and 2258 attached (e.g., for airline transport).

[0135] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 includes a base and at least one wall panel extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 includes a bottom panel 2213, top panel 2214, front panel 2217, rear panel 2219, first side panel 2216. and second side panel 2218. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a door 2280 attached to, or included in, the rear panel 2219 and arranged to open and close by pivoting about a pivot axis Pl relative to the rear panel 2219. As shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a door release actuator 2282 that, in response to being actuated (e.g., pressed in an upward direction) by a user when the door 2280 is closed, is arranged to permit the door 2280 to pivot in an upward direction about the pivot axis Pl to open the door 2280. As shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a handle structure 2284 (e.g., a molded-in grab handle) formed in a bottom region of the rear panel 2219). In some aspects, the handle structure 2284 may be used to lift one end of the animal containment device 2210 to a tilted position, causing the wheels 2241A. 2241B to contact the ground, allowing a user to easily move the animal containment device 2210.

[0136] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a barrel lock mechanism 2286 (e.g., cam lock, lock cylinder) disposed on the door 2280 (as shown), or on the rear panel 2219 (not shown), and having a locked position that secures the door 2280 to the rear- 36 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOpanel 2219 (e.g., even when the door release actuator 2282 is actuated) and an unlocked position that permits the door 2280 to be opened when the door release actuator 2282 is actuated.

[0137] In some aspects, as show n, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a first tunnel structure 2290A defining a first contiguous tunnel through the rear panel 2219 and the door 2280. As shown, the first contiguous tunnel has a first opened structure 2291 A defined on a first exterior portion of the door 2280, and a second opened structure 2292A defined on a second exterior portion of the rear panel 2219, where the opened structures 2291 A and 2292A are disposed proximate to each other on the exterior surface of the animal containment device 2210. In some aspects, the first tunnel structure 2290A may be curved or angled such that the first opened structure 2291 A is positioned proximate the second opened structure 2292A. In some aspects, a first end of a first cable tie (e.g., zip tie) or other suitable structure (e.g., flexible cord, wire, cable, etc.) may be inserted into one of the opened structures 2291 A. 2292 A, fed through the first tunnel structure 2290A, outputted from the other of the opened structures 2291 A, 2292 A, and fastened to a second end of the first cable tie to secure the door 2280 to the rear panel 2219 (e.g., even when the door release actuator 2282 is actuated). In some aspects, the first cable tie may be removed from the first tunnel structure 2290A to permit the door 2280 to be opened when the door release actuator 2282 is actuated.

[0138] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a second tunnel structure 2290B defining a second contiguous tunnel through the rear panel 2219 and the door 2280. As shown, the second contiguous tunnel has a third opened structure 2291B defined on a third exterior portion of the door 2280, and a fourth opened structure 2292B defined on a fourth exterior portion of the rear panel 2219, where the opened structures 2291B and 2292B are disposed proximate to each other on the exterior surface of the animal containment device 2210. In some aspects, the second tunnel structure 2290B may be curved or angled such that the third opened structure 229 IB is positioned proximate the fourth opened structure 2292B. In some aspects, a third end of a second cable tie (e.g., zip tie) or other suitable structure (e.g., flexible cord, wire, cable, etc.) may be inserted into one of the opened structures 229 IB, 2292B, fed through the second tunnel structure 2290B, outputted from the other of the opened structures 2291B, 2292B, and fastened to a fourth end of the second cable tie to secure the door 2280 to the rear panel 2219 (e.g., even when the door release actuator 2282 is actuated). In some aspects, the second cable tie may be removed from the second tunnel structure 2290B to permit the door 2280 to be opened when the door release actuator 2282 is actuated.

[0139] As shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a deployable load leg 2240 and a pair of wheels 2241 A, 2241B positioned proximate the front panel 2217. As shown, the- 37 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOpair of wheels 2241 A, 2241B includes a first wheel 2241 A disposed toward the first side panel 2216 and a second wheel 2241B disposed toward the second side panel 2218. In some aspects, the pair of wheels 2241 A, 224 IB may be included in one or more wheel assemblies having wheel lock mechanisms 2242A, 2242B with wheel lock actuators 2243A, 2243B (e.g., slidable actuators) connected to wheel lock retention mechanisms (not shown due to drawing view) (e.g., wheel lock pins) configured to lock or unlock the pair of wheels 2241 A, 2241B. For example, each of the pair of wheels 2241 A, 224 IB may have a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of holeshaped portions configured to receive a respective one of the wheel lock pins to lock the respective one of the pair of wheels 2241 A, 224 IB (e.g., in response to a user sliding a respective one of the wheel lock actuators 2243A, 2243B in a direction towards a respective one of the pair of wheels 2241A, 2241B to insert a respective one of the wheel lock pins into a respective one of the plurality of opened structures in the respective one of the pair of wheels 2241A. 2241B).

[0140] In some aspects, as shown the animal containment device 2210 may include one or more feet (e.g., each having a smooth bottom surface, a substantially slip-resistant bottom surface such as a rubber-type surface or coating, or any other suitable bottom surface) to support the animal containment device 2210 on a surface such as the ground. For example, as shown in FIGS. 22C, 22D, 22E, 22F, 22G, 22H, 221, and 22J, the animal containment device 2210 may include a first foot structure 2293A mounted to or formed integrally with a first portion of the bottom panel 2213, a second foot structure 2293B mounted to or formed integrally with a second portion of the bottom panel 2213, a third foot structure 2293C mounted to or formed integrally with a third portion of the bottom panel 2213, and a fourth foot structure 2293D mounted to or formed integrally with a fourth portion of the bottom panel 2213, where each of the foot structures is configured to support the animal containment device 2210 on a respective portion of a surface such as the ground. In some aspects, the foot structures 2293 A, 2293B, 2293C, 2293D may be configured to rest on the ground, and the wheels 2241 A. 224 IB may be configured to be positioned above the ground without contacting the ground when the foot structures 2293 A, 2293B, 2293C, 2293D are resting on the ground. For example, as shown in FIGS. 22C, 22D, 22E, 22G, 22H, and 221, when the foot structures foot structures 2293A, 2293B, 2293C, 2293D are resting on the ground, the wheels 2241 A, 224 IB are positioned above the ground and do not contact the ground. In some aspects, the wheels 2241A, 2241B are configured to contact the ground and roll along the ground when the animal containment device 2210 is tilted, with the bottom of the rear panel 2219 positioned above the bottom of the front panel 2217, and with the foot structures 2293A, 2293B, 2293C, 2293D positioned above the ground and not contacting the ground. In some aspects, a user may use (e.g., grab) the handle structure 2284 with one hand to lift the end of the animal containment device 2210- 38 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOproximate the rear panel 2219 to a tilted position, causing (i) the foot structures 2293C, 2293D and the front portions of the foot structures 2293A, 2293B to be lifted off the ground, with the rear portions of the foot structures 2293 A. 2293B contacting the ground, (ii) the wheels 2241A, 2241B to contact the ground, with the rear portions of the foot structures 2293 A, 2293B still in contact with the ground, and (iii) the rear portions of the foot structures 2293A, 2293B to be lifted off the ground, leaving only the wheels 2241 A, 224 IB in contact with the ground and allowing the user to easily move the animal containment device 2210 (e.g., by rolling the animal containment device 2210 on the wheels 2241A, 2241B while holding the handle structure 2284 with one hand).

[0141] In some aspects, the animal containment device 2210 may further include one or more bowl alignment structures configured to be engaged by a bowl mounting structure of a bowl device (e.g., a food and water bowl) to removably attach the bowl device to the animal containment device 2210. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a bowl alignment structure 2294 mounted to the second side panel 2218 and arranged to be engaged by a bowl mounting structure of a bowl device to removably attach the bowl device to the second side panel 2218 of the animal containment device 2210. In some aspects, the animal containment device 2210 may further include a drainage assembly having a drainage channel defined in a portion of the bottom panel 2213 and a drainage plug 2296 designed to removably seal the drainage channel.

[0142] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes one or more locking bar attachment structures each having one or more locking bar mounting portions, such as a first locking bar attachment structure having first locking bar mounting portions 2226A, 2226B mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 2216, and a second locking bar attachment stmcture having second locking bar mounting portions 2228A, 2228B mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 2218. In some aspects, the animal containment system 2200 may further include a locking bar assembly (not shown) configured to attach to one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of the animal containment device 2210 as well as one of the one or more locking bar attachment structures of another animal containment device (not shown) to hold or otherwise secure the tw o animal containment devices in proximity7to each other.

[0143] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 may further include a removable accessory panel (e.g., airline panel) configured to attach to the wall panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel including at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the wall panel, and a movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the wall panel. In some aspects, the movable latch mechanism may include a single actuator and a single engaging member. In some aspects, the movable latch mechanism may include a cam assembly, wherein, when the movable latch- 39 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOmechanism is actuated, the cam assembly causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory' panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the wall panel.

[0144] In one example, as shown, the animal containment device 2210 further includes a first removable accessory panel 2256 configured to attach to the first side panel 2216 in an overlapping arrangement, and a second removable accessory panel 2258 configured to attach to the second side panel 2218 in an overlapping arrangement. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panels 2256. 2258 are substantially coextensive with the side panels 2216, 2218 when attached thereto. For example, the first removable accessory panel 2256 is substantially coextensive with the first side panel 2216 when the first removable accessory panel 2256 is attached to the first side panel 2216. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 22B and 22G, the second removable accessory panel 2258 is substantially coextensive with the second side panel 2218 when the second removable accessory panel 2258 is attached to the second side panel 2218. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panels 2256, 2258 have an overall area of about 80% to about 100% of an overall area of the side panels 2216, 2218. For example, the first removable accessory panel 2256 has a first overall area, the first side panel 2216 has a second overall area, and the first overall area of the first removable accessory panel 2256 is about 80% to about 100% of the second overall area of the first side panel 2216. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 22B and 22G. the second removable accessory panel 2258 has a third overall area, the second side panel 2218 has a fourth overall area, and the third overall area of the second removable accessory' panel 2258 is about 80% to about 100% of the fourth overall area of the second side panel 2218.

[0145] In some aspects, as shown, the first side panel 2216 includes first recessed mounting structures (e g., substantially similar to the recessed mounting structures 2238A, 2238B), and the first removable accessory panel 2256 includes first movable latch mechanisms 2276A and 2276B configured to selectively engage the first recessed mounting structures 2236A and 2236B, respectively, of the first side panel 2216. In some aspects, each of the first movable latch mechanisms 2276A and 2276B may include a single actuator and a single engaging member. In some aspects, the removable accessory' panel 2256 may further include one or more hook mechanisms (not shown due to drawing view) configured to engage one or more portions of the first side panel 2216. In some aspects, each of the first movable latch mechanisms 2276A and 2276B may include a cam assembly, wherein, when the respective movable latch mechanism 2276A, 2276B is actuated, the respective cam assembly causes the respective hook mechanism of the removable accessory' panel 2256 to move into engagement with the respective portion of the first side panel 221 .

[0146] In some aspects, as shown, the second side panel 2218 includes second recessed- 40 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOmounting structures 2238A and 2238B, and the second removable accessory panel 2258 includes second movable latch mechanisms 2278 A and 2278B configured to selectively engage the second recessed mounting structures 2238A and 2238B. respectively, of the second side panel 2218. In some aspects, the removable accessory panel 2258 may further include one or more hook mechanisms (not shown due to drawing view) configured to engage one or more portions of the second side panel 2218. In some aspects, each of the second movable latch mechanisms 2278A and 2278B may include a cam assembly, wherein, when the respective movable latch mechanism 2278A, 2278B is actuated, the respective cam assembly causes the respective hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel 2258 to move into engagement with the respective portion of the second side panel 2218.

[0147] FIGS. 23 A, 23B, 23C, and 23D show an example animal containment system 2300 for airline travel including an example animal containment device 2310 and example removable accessory panels 2356 and 2358 according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 23 A and 23B are perspective and close-up views of the animal containment system 2300 including the example animal containment device 2310 with the first removable accessory panel 2356 attached and the second removable accessory’ panel 2358 removed. FIGS. 23C and 23D are perspective and closeup views of the animal containment system 2300 including the example animal containment device 2310 with the removable accessory panels 2356 and 2358 attached.

[0148] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2310 includes a bottom panel 2313, top panel 2314, front panel 2317, rear panel 2319, first side panel 2316, and second side panel 2318. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2310 further includes a first locking bar attachment structure having first locking bar mounting portions 2326A, 2326B mounted to or formed integrally with the first side panel 2316, and a second locking bar attachment structure having second locking bar mounting portions (not shown due to drawing view; e.g., substantially similar to locking bar mounting portions 2326A, 2326B) mounted to or formed integrally with the second side panel 2318. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2310 further includes a door 2380 attached to, or included in, the rear panel 2319 and arranged to open and close by pivoting about a pivot axis P2 relative to the rear panel 2319. As shown, the animal containment device 2310 further includes one or more hinge devices 2381 (e.g., one or more gas struts, spring-loaded hinges, hydraulic hinges, or the like) and a door release actuator 2382 that, in response to being actuated (e.g., pressed in an upward direction) by a user when the door 2380 is closed, is arranged to permit the door 2380 to pivot in an upw ard direction about the pivot axis P2 to open the door 2380.

[0149] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2310 further includes a first- 41 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOremovable accessory panel 2356 configured to attach to the first side panel 2316 in an overlapping arrangement, and a second removable accessory panel 2358 configured to attach to the second side panel 2318 in an overlapping arrangement. In some aspects, as shown, the first side panel 2316 includes first recessed mounting structures (not shown due to drawing view: e.g., substantially similar to recessed mounting structures 2338A, 2338B), and the first removable accessory panel 2356 includes first movable latch mechanisms 2376A and 2376B configured to selectively engage the first recessed mounting structures, respectively, of the first side panel 2316. In some aspects, the removable accessory panel 2356 may further include first hook mechanisms (not shown due to drawing view; e.g., substantially similar to hook mechanisms 2379A, 2379B) configured to engage portions of the first side panel 2316 (e.g., underside portions of the bottom tubular member of the first side panel 2316). In some aspects, as shown, the second side panel 2318 includes second recessed mounting structures 2338A and 2338B, and the second removable accessory panel 2358 includes second movable latch mechanisms 2378A and 2378B configured to selectively engage (as shown in FIGS. 23C and 23D) the second recessed mounting structures 2338A and 2338B, respectively, of the second side panel 2318. In some aspects, as shown the removable accessory panel 2358 further includes second hook mechanisms 2379A and 2379B configured to engage portions of the second side panel 2318 (e.g., underside portions of the bottom tubular member of the second side panel 2318, as shown).

[0150] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panels 2356, 2358 are substantially coextensive with the side panels 2316, 2318 when attached thereto. For example, as shown in FIGS.23A and 23C, the first removable accessory panel 2356 is substantially coextensive with the first side panel 2316 when the first removable accessory panel 2356 is attached to the first side panel 2316. In another example, the second removable accessory panel 2358 is substantially coextensive with the second side panel 2318 when the second removable accessory panel 2358 is attached to the second side panel 2318. In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 23 A and 23C, the removable accessory panels 2356, 2358 have an overall area of about 80% to about 100% of an overall area of the side panels 2316, 2318. For example, the first removable accessory panel 2356 has a first overall area, the first side panel 2316 has a second overall area, and the first overall area of the first removable accessory panel 2356 is about 80% to about 100% of the second overall area of the first side panel 2316. In another example, the second removable accessory panel 2358 has a third overall area, the second side panel 2318 has a fourth overall area, and the third overall area of the second removable accessory' panel 2358 is about 80% to about 100% of the fourth overall area of the second side panel 2318.

[0151] FIG. 24 shows an example animal containment system 2400 for airline travel including- 42 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOan example animal containment device 2410 and example removable accessory panels 2456 and 2458 according to aspects of the disclosure. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2410 includes a bottom panel 2413, top panel 2414. front panel 2417, rear panel 2419, first side panel 2416, and second side panel 2418. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2410 further includes a door 2480 attached to, or included in, the rear panel 2419. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2410 further includes a deploy able load leg 2440. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 2410 further includes a first removable accessory panel 2456 configured to attach to the first side panel 2416 in an overlapping arrangement, and a second removable accessory panel 2458 configured to attach to the second side panel 2418 in an overlapping arrangement.

[0152] In some aspects, as shown, the first side panel 2416 includes a first lower member having first recessed mounting structures formed therein, and the first removable accessory panel 2456 includes first movable latch mechanisms 2476A and 2476B configured to selectively engage the first recessed mounting structures, respectively, of the first side panel 2416. In some aspects, as shown, the first side panel 2416 further includes a first bottom tubular member, and the first removable accessory’ panel 2456 further includes first lower hook mechanisms 2476A and 2476B configured to engage respective underside portions of the bottom tubular member of the first side panel 2416. In some aspects, as shown, the first side panel 2416 further includes a first plurality of middle tubular members, and the first removable accessory’ panel 2456 further includes a first plurality of middle hook mechanisms 2457B that are disposed at vertical intervals along respective side portions of the first removable accessory panel 2456 and are configured to engage respective underside portions of the first plurality of middle tubular members of the first side panel 2416. In some aspects, as showm, the first side panel 2416 further includes a first locking bar attachment member having first locking bar mounting portions, and the first removable accessory panel 2456 further includes a first top hook mechanism 2457A that extends along a top portion of the first removable accessory panel 2456 and is configured to engage an underside portion of the first locking bar attachment member of the first side panel 2416.

[0153] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory’ panels 2456, 2458 are substantially coextensive with the side panels 2416, 2418 when attached thereto. For example, as shown, the first removable accessory panel 2456 is substantially coextensive with the first side panel 2416 when the first removable accessory panel 2456 is attached to the first side panel 2416. In another example, as showm, the second removable accessory’ panel 2458 is substantially coextensive with the second side panel 2418 when the second removable accessory panel 2458 is attached to the second side panel 2418. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panels 2456, 2458 have an overall- 43 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOarea of about 80% to about 100% of an overall area of the side panels 2416, 2418. For example, as shown, the first removable accessory panel 2456 has a first overall area, the first side panel 2416 has a second overall area, and the first overall area of the first removable accessory panel 2456 is about 80% to about 100% of the second overall area of the first side panel 2416. In another example, as shown, the second removable accessory panel 2458 has a third overall area, the second side panel 2418 has a fourth overall area, and the third overall area of the second removable accessory panel 2458 is about 80% to about 100% of the fourth overall area of the second side panel 2418.

[0154] In some aspects, as shown, the second side panel 2418 includes a second lower member 2486 having second recessed mounting structures formed therein, and the second removable accessory panel 2458 includes second movable latch mechanisms 2478A and 2478B configured to selectively engage the second recessed mounting structures, respectively, of the second side panel 2418. In some aspects, as shown, the second side panel 2418 further includes a second bottom tubular member 2484, and the second removable accessory panel 2458 further includes second lower hook mechanisms configured to engage respective underside portions of the second bottom tubular member 2484 of the second side panel 2418. In some aspects, as shown, the second side panel 2418 further includes a second plurality of middle tubular members 2482, and the second removable accessory panel 2458 further includes a second plurality of middle hook mechanisms 2459B that are disposed at vertical intervals along respective side portions of the second removable accessory7panel 2458 and are configured to engage respective underside portions of the second plurality of middle tubular members 2482 of the second side panel 2418. In some aspects, as show n, the second side panel 2418 further includes a second locking bar attachment member 2490 having second locking bar mounting portions 2228A and 2228B, and the second removable accessory panel 2458 further includes a second top hook mechanism 2459A that extends along a top portion of the second removable accessory panel 2458 and is configured to engage an underside portion of the second locking bar attachment member 2490 of the second side panel 2418.

[0155] FIGS. 25 A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25E show perspective and side views of an example removable accessory panel 2500 (e.g., an airline panel) that may be attached to an animal containment device for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 25A is a perspective view of the inner side of the removable accessory- panel 2500. FIGS. 25B and 25C are side views of the exterior and interior sides, respectively, of the removable accessory panel 2500 yvith the movable latch mechanisms 2502A and 2502B in a closed configuration for securing the removable accessory panel 2500 to the animal containment device. FIGS. 25D and 25E are side views of the exterior and interior sides, respectively, of the removable accessory- panel 2500 with the movable latch mechanisms 2502A and 2502B in an open configuration for attaching the- 44 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOremovable accessory panel 2500 to the animal containment device or removing the removable accessory' panel 2500 from the animal containment device.

[0156] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory’ panel 2500 is configured to be attached (e.g., by a user) to a panel of an animal containment device in an overlapping arrangement to reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device for airline use as well as to be removed from the panel to increase the ventilation space for non-airline use. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2500 defines a plurality of opened ventilation structures 2530 that reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device to comply with airline requirements. For example, each of the opened ventilation structures 2530 may' be no larger than about 1.00 inch (in.) by 1.00 in. (25 millimeters (mm) by 25 mm) to comply with airline requirements for dogs, or no larger than about 0.75 in. by 0.75 in. (19 mm by 19 mm) to comply with airline requirements for cats.

[0157] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory' panel 2500 includes movable latch mechanisms 2502A and 2502B configured to selectively engage recessed, indented, or opened mounting structures, respectively, defined in the panel of the animal containment device. As shown, the first movable latch mechanism 2502A includes a first rotatable knob member 2503A and a first rotatable latch member 2504 A, where a rotation of the first rotatable knob member 2503A (e.g., by a user applying a rotational force thereto) causes a corresponding rotation of the first rotatable latch member 2504A. As shown, the second movable latch mechanism 2502B includes a second rotatable knob member 2503B and a second rotatable latch member 2504B, where a rotation of the second rotatable knob member 2503B (e.g., by’ a user applying a rotational force thereto) causes a corresponding rotation of the second rotatable latch member 2504B.

[0158] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory' panel 2500 further includes low'er hook mechanisms 2506A and 2506B disposed proximate to the rotatable latch members 2504A and 2504B of the movable latch mechanisms 2502A and 2502B, respectively, and configured to engage respective underside portions of a bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2500 further includes a first plurality’ of middle hook mechanisms 2510A, 2512A, 2514A, and 2516A that are disposed at vertical intervals along a first side portion of the removable accessory panel 2500 and are configured to engage respective first underside portions of a plurality of middle tubular members (e.g., horizontal cross bar members) of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory' panel 2500 further includes a second plurality' of middle hook mechanisms 2510B, 2512B, 2514B, and 2516B that are disposed at vertical intervals along a second side portion of the removable accessory panel 2500 and are configured to engage respective second- 45 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOunderside portions of the plurality of middle tubular members of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2500 further includes a top hook mechanism 2518 that extends along a top portion of the removable accessory’ panel 2500 and is configured to engage an underside portion of an upper member, such as a locking bar attachment member, of the panel of the animal containment device.

[0159] In some aspects, to secure the removable accessory panel 2500 to the animal containment device, a user may: (i) with the movable latch mechanisms 2502A and 2502B in the open configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 25D and 25E) in which the rotatable knob members 2503A and 2503B are oriented in a substantially vertical direction and the rotatable latch members 2504A and 2504B are oriented in a substantially horizontal direction, attach the lower hook mechanisms 2506A and 2506B, the middle hook mechanisms 2510A, 2510B, 2512A, 2512B, 2514A, 2514B, 2516A, and 2516B, and the top hook mechanism 2518 to the respective portions of the panel of the animal containment device; and (ii) move each of the movable latch mechanisms 2502A and 2502B to the closed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 25B and 25C) by rotating each of the rotatable knob members 2503A and 2503B to be oriented in a substantially horizontal direction, causing each of the rotatable latch members 2504A and 2504B to rotate to be oriented in a substantially vertical direction to selectively engage the recessed, indented, or opened mounting structures, respectively, defined in the panel of the animal containment device.

[0160] FIGS. 26A and 26B show perspective views of the exterior and interior sides, respectively, of an example removable accessory' panel 2600 (e.g., an airline panel) that may be attached to an animal containment device for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure, with the movable latch mechanism 2602 in an open configuration for removing the removable accessory’ panel 2600 from the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2600 is configured to be attached (e.g., by a user) to a panel of an animal containment device in an overlapping arrangement to reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device for airline use as well as to be removed from the panel to increase the ventilation space for non-airline use. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory' panel 2600 defines a plurality' of opened ventilation structures 2630 that reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device to comply ith airline requirements.

[0161] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2600 includes a movable latch mechanism 2602 configured to selectively engage a topside portion of a bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device. As shown, the movable latch mechanism 2602 includes a rotatable lever member 2603 and a rotatable cam member 2604, where an upward rotation of the rotatable lever member 2603 (e.g., by a user applying an upward pushing or- 46 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOsqueezing force thereto) causes a corresponding downw ard rotation of the rotatable cam member 2604. As shown, the movable latch mechanism 2602 further includes a latch member 2605 (e.g., slidable spring-loaded latch or other suitable latch member) configured to automatically catch and retain the rotatable lever member 2603 in the closed configuration and manually slide to an open position for releasing the rotatable lever member 2603 in the open configuration.

[0162] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory' panel 2600 further includes low er hook mechanisms 2606A and 2606B configured to engage respective underside portions of the bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2600 further includes a first plurality of middle hook mechanisms 2610A, 2612A, 2614A, and 2616A that are disposed at vertical intervals along a first side portion of the removable accessory panel 2600 and are configured to engage respective first underside portions of a plurality of middle tubular members (e.g.. horizontal cross bar members) of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2600 further includes a second plurality of middle hook mechanisms 2610B, 2612B, 2614B, and 2616B that are disposed at vertical intervals along a second side portion of the removable accessory panel 2600 and are configured to engage respective second underside portions of the plurality of middle tubular members of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2600 further includes a top hook mechanism 2618 that extends along a top portion of the removable accessory panel 2600 and is configured to engage an underside portion of an upper member, such as a locking bar attachment member, of the panel of the animal containment device.

[0163] In some aspects, to secure the removable accessory panel 2600 to the animal containment device, a user may: (i) with the movable latch mechanism 2602 in the open configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B) in which the rotatable lever member 2603 is oriented in a substantially downward direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 26 A) and the rotatable cam member 2604 oriented in a substantially horizontal direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 26B), insert the rotatable cam member 2604 between the respective tubular members of the panel of the animal containment device and loosely attach the lower hook mechanisms 2606A and 2606B, the middle hook mechanisms 2610A, 2610B, 2612A, 2612B, 2614A, 2614B, 2616A, and 2616B, and the top hook mechanism 2618 to the respective portions of the panel of the animal containment device; and (ii) move the movable latch mechanism 2602 to the closed configuration (not shown) by rotating the rotatable lever member 2603 to be oriented in a substantially horizontal direction (the latch member 2605 automatically catches and retains the rotatable lever member 2603 in the substantially horizontal direction), causing the rotatable cam member 2604 to rotate to be oriented in a- 47 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOsubstantially vertical direction to selectively engage and bear against the topside portion of the bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device, which pushes the removable accessory panel 2600 in an upward direction such that the lower hook mechanisms 2606A and 2606B, the middle hook mechanisms 2610A, 2610B, 2612A, 2612B, 2614A, 2614B, 2616A, and 2616B, and the top hook mechanism 2618 securely engage and bear against the respective portions of the panel of the animal containment device.

[0164] FIGS. 27A, 27B. 27C, and 27D show side and cross-sectional views of the exterior and interior sides, respectively, of an example removable accessory panel 2700 (e.g., an airline panel) that is attached to a side panel 2780 of an animal containment device for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 27A and 27B are side and cross-sectional side views of the exterior and interior sides, respectively, of the removable accessory panel 2700 attached, but not secured, to the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device, with the movable latch mechanism 2702 of the removable accessory panel 2700 in an open configuration. FIGS. 27C and 27D are side and cross-sectional side views of the exterior and interior sides, respectively, of the removable accessory panel 2700 attached and secured to the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device, with the movable latch mechanism 2702 of the removable accessory panel 2700 in a closed configuration.

[0165] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2700 is configured to be attached (e.g., by a user) to a side panel 2780 of an animal containment device in an overlapping arrangement to reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device for airline use as well as to be removed from the panel to increase the ventilation space for non-airline use. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2700 defines a plurality of opened ventilation structures 2730 that reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device to comply with airline requirements.

[0166] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2700 includes a movable latch mechanism 2702 configured to selectively engage a topside portion of a bottom tubular member 2784 of the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device. As shown, the movable latch mechanism 2702 includes a rotatable lever member 2703 and a rotatable cam member 2704, where an upward rotation of the rotatable lever member 2703 (e.g., by a user applying an upward pushing or squeezing force thereto) causes a corresponding downward rotation of the rotatable cam member 2704. As shown, the movable latch mechanism 2702 further includes a latch member 2705 (e g., slidable spring-loaded latch or other suitable latch member) configured to automatically catch and retain the rotatable lever member 2703 in the closed configuration and manually slide to an open position for releasing the rotatable lever member 2703 in the open configuration.

[0167] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2700 further includes a lower- 48 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOhook mechanism 2706A configured to engage an underside portion of the bottom tubular member 2784 of the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2700 further includes middle hook mechanisms 2710A and 2712A that are disposed at vertical intervals along a side portion of the removable accessory panel 2700 and are configured to engage respective underside portions of middle tubular members 2783 and 2782, respectively, of the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device.

[0168] In some aspects, to secure the removable accessory panel 2700 to the animal containment device, a user may: (i) with the movable latch mechanism 2702 in the open configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B) in which the rotatable lever member 2703 is oriented in a substantially downward direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 27 A) and the rotatable cam member 2704 oriented in a substantially horizontal direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 27B), insert the rotatable cam member 2704 between the respective tubular members 2783 and 2784 of the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device and loosely attach the hook mechanisms 2706A, 2710A, and 2712A to the tubular members 2784, 2783, and 2782, respectively, of the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device; and (ii) move the movable latch mechanism 2702 to the closed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 27C and 27D) by rotating the rotatable lever member 2703 to be oriented in a substantially horizontal direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 27C) (the latch member 2705 automatically catches and retains the rotatable lever member 2703 in the substantially horizontal direction), causing the rotatable cam member 2704 to rotate to be oriented in a substantially vertical direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 27D) to selectively engage and bear against the topside portion of the bottom tubular member 2784 of the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device, which pushes the removable accessory panel 2700 in an upw ard direction such that the hook mechanisms 2706A, 2710A, and 2712A securely engage and bear against the respective underside portions of the tubular members 2784, 2783, and 2782, respectively, of the side panel 2780 of the animal containment device.

[0169] FIG. 28 shows a bottom cross-sectional view of an example movable latch mechanism 2802 of an example removable accessory panel 2800 in a closed configuration according to aspects of the disclosure. In some aspects, the movable latch mechanism 2802 and the removable accessory¬ panel 2800 may be substantially similar to the movable latch mechanism 2602 and the removable accessory panel 2600 described with reference to FIGS. 26A and 26B and / or the movable latch mechanism 2702 and the removable accessory panel 2700 described with reference to FIGS. 27 A, 27B, 27C, and 27D. As shown, the movable latch mechanism 2802 includes a rotatable lever member 2803 a rotatable cam member (not shown), and a latch member 2805 (e.g., slidable spring-loaded latch or other suitable latch member) configured to automatically catch and retain the- 49 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOrotatable lever member 2803 in the closed configuration (as show n) and manually slide to an open position for releasing the rotatable lever member 2803 in the open configuration (not shown).

[0170] FIGS. 29 A, 29B, and 29C show an example removable accessory panel 2900 (e.g., an airline panel) that may be attached to an animal containment device for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 29A and 29B are perspective and side views of the exterior and interior sides, respectively, of the removable accessory panel 2900, with the movable latch mechanism 2902 in a closed configuration for securing the removable accessory’ panel 2900 to an animal containment device. FIG. 29C is another side view of the interior side of the removable accessory panel 2900, with the movable latch mechanism 2902 in an open configuration for attaching the removable accessory’ panel 2900 to the animal containment device or removing the removable accessory panel 2900 from the animal containment device.

[0171] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory’ panel 2900 is configured to be attached (e.g., by a user) to a panel of an animal containment device in an overlapping arrangement to reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device for airline use as yvell as to be removed from the panel to increase the ventilation space for non-airline use. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2900 defines a plurality of opened ventilation structures 2930 that reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device to comply with airline requirements.

[0172] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2900 includes a movable latch mechanism 2902 configured to selectively engage a topside portion of a bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device. As shown, the movable latch mechanism 2902 includes a rotatable lever member 2903 and a rotatable cam assembly having a first rotatable cam member 2904A connected to a second rotatable cam member 2904B by a link member 2904C. As show n in FIGS. 29A and 29B, an upward rotation of the rotatable lever member 2903 (e.g., by a user applying an upyvard pushing or squeezing force thereto) causes a corresponding downyvard rotation of the first rotatable cam member 2904A, which causes a corresponding leftward movement of the link member 2904C, yvhich causes a corresponding downward rotation of the second rotatable cam member 2904B. As show n in FIG. 29C, a dow nw ard rotation of the rotatable lever member 2903 (e.g., by a user applying an downyvard pulling force thereto) causes a corresponding upyvard rotation of the first rotatable cam member 2904A, which causes a corresponding rightward movement of the link member 2904C, which causes a corresponding upward rotation of the second rotatable cam member 2904B. As shown in FIG. 29A, the movable latch mechanism 2902 further includes a latch member 2905 (e.g., slidable spring-loaded latch or other suitable latch member) configured to automatically catch and retain the rotatable lever member 2903 in the closed- 50 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOconfiguration and manually slide to an open position for releasing the rotatable lever member 2903 in the open configuration.

[0173] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 29B and 29C, the removable accessory panel 2900 further includes lower hook mechanisms 2906A and 2906B configured to engage respective underside portions of the bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as show n, the removable accessory7panel 2900 further includes a first plurality of middle hook mechanisms 2910A, 2912A, 2914A. and 2916A that are disposed at vertical intervals along a first side portion of the removable accessory panel 2900 and are configured to engage respective first underside portions of a plurality7of middle tubular members (e.g., horizontal cross bar members) of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory7panel 2900 further includes a second plurality of middle hook mechanisms 2910B, 2912B, 2914B, and 2916B that are disposed at vertical intervals along a second side portion of the removable accessory panel 2900 and are configured to engage respective second underside portions of the plurality of middle tubular members of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 2900 further includes a top hook mechanism 2918 that extends along a top portion of the removable accessory panel 2900 and is configured to engage an underside portion of an upper member, such as a locking bar attachment member, of the panel of the animal containment device.

[0174] In some aspects, to secure the removable accessory7panel 2900 to the animal containment device, a user may: (i) with the movable latch mechanism 2902 in the open configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 29C) in which the rotatable lever member 2903 is oriented in a substantially downward direction and the rotatable cam members 2904A and 2904B oriented in a substantially horizontal direction, insert the rotatable cam members 2904A and 2904B between the respective tubular members of the panel of the animal containment device and loosely attach the lower hook mechanisms 2906A and 2906B, the middle hook mechanisms 2910A. 2910B. 2912A, 2912B, 2914A, 2914B, 2916A, and 2916B, and the top hook mechanism 2918 to the respective portions of the panel of the animal containment device; and (ii) move the movable latch mechanism 2902 to the closed configuration (.g., as shown in FIGS. 29 A and 29B) by rotating the rotatable lever member 2903 to be oriented in a substantially horizontal direction (the latch member 2905 automatically catches and retains the rotatable lever member 2903 in the substantially horizontal direction, as shown in FIG. 29 A), causing the rotatable cam members 2904A and 2904B to rotate to be oriented in a substantially vertical direction to selectively engage and bear against respective topside portions of the bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device, which pushes the removable accessory panel 2900 in an upward direction such that the lower hook- 51 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOmechanisms 2906A and 2906B, the middle hook mechanisms 2910A, 2910B, 2912A, 2912B, 2914A, 2914B, 2916A, and 2916B, and the top hook mechanism 2918 securely engage and bear against the respective portions of the panel of the animal containment device.

[0175] FIGS. 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E, 30F, and 30G show an example removable accessory panel 3000 (e.g., an airline panel) that may be attached to an animal containment device for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 30A and 30B are side views of the outer side of the removable accessory panel 3000 with the movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B in the closed and open configurations, respectively. FIG. 30C is an exploded perspective view of the second movable latch mechanism 3002B. FIG. 30D is a bottom cross-sectional view of the removable accessory panel 3000 along the cross-section D-D’ shown in FIG. 30A with the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B in a closed configuration and the movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B in a locked configuration to prevent the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B from moving to an open configuration, and FIG. 30E is a close-up bottom cross-sectional view of the second movable latch mechanism 3002B in the closed configuration and the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B in the locked configuration to prevent rotation of the second rotatable latch member 3004B. FIG. 30F is a bottom cross-sectional view of the removable accessory panel 3000 along the cross-section D-D’ shown in FIG. 30A with the secondary lock mechanisms 3005 A and 3005B in a closed configuration and the movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B in an unlocked configuration to permit the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B to move to an open configuration, and FIG. 30G is a close-up bottom cross-sectional view of the second movable latch mechanism 3002B in the closed configuration and the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B in the unlocked configuration to permit rotation of the second rotatable latch member 3004B.

[0176] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 3000 is configured to be attached (e.g., by a user) to a panel of an animal containment device in an overlapping arrangement to reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device for airline use as well as to be removed from the panel to increase the ventilation space for non-airline use. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 3000 defines a plurality' of opened ventilation structures 3030 that reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device to comply with airline requirements.

[0177] In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory' panel 3000 includes movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B configured to selectively engage recessed, indented, or opened mounting structures, respectively, defined in the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, the movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B may have substantially mirrored- 52 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOorientations with otherwise substantially similar structures and functionalities.

[0178] As shown, the first movable latch mechanism 3002A includes a first rotatable knob member 3003 A, a first rotatable latch member 3004A. a first secondary lock mechanism 3005 A, and a first spring 3014A. As shown, the first rotatable knob member 3003A includes a first outwardly-facing housing portion 3011 A and a first inwardly-facing housing portion 3013A which are rotatable about a first primary pivot axis P4, where the first outwardly-facing housing portion 3011A defines a first opened portion 3012A (e.g., cutout) for the first actuatable portion 3025A of the first secondary lock mechanism 3005 A. As shown, the first rotatable latch member 3004A is rotatable about the first primary pivot axis P4, where a rotation of the first rotatable knob member 3003 A about the first primary' pivot axis P4 (e.g., by a user applying a rotational force to the first rotatable knob member 3003A with the first secondary lock mechanism 3005A in the unlocked configuration) causes a corresponding rotation of the first rotatable latch member 3004A about the first primary pivot axis P4 to selectively engage in or disengage from a first recessed, indented, or opened mounting structure defined in a first portion of the panel of the animal containment device. As shown, the first secondary lock mechanism 3005A has a first actuatable portion 3025A (e.g., a spring-loaded member) and a first distal end portion 3015 A which are pivotable about a first secondary pivot axis P5. As shown, the first secondary lock mechanism 3005A is biased (e.g., spring biased) to be in a locked configuration in which the first actuatable portion 3025 A is disposed within the first opened portion 3012A of the first outwardly -facing housing portion 3011 A of the first rotatable knob member 3003 A, and in which the first distal end portion 3015A is engaged in (e.g.. disposed within) a first opened structure 3016A defined in the removable accessory panel 3000. As shown, the first secondary lock mechanism 3005A is arranged to be moved to an unlocked configuration by a user pressing the first actuatable portion 3025A in an inward direction, which cases the first secondary lock mechanism 3005A to pivot about the first secondary pivot axis P5 in an outward direction such that the first distal end portion 3015A is disengaged from (e.g., not disposed within) the first opened structure 3016A defined in the removable accessory panel 3000. As shown in FIGS. 30A, 30D, and 30E, when the first secondary' lock mechanism 3005A is in the locked configuration, the first movable latch mechanism 3002A is in the closed configuration and cannot move to the open configuration. As shown in FIGS. 30B, 30F, and 30G, when the first secondary lock mechanism 3005A is in the unlocked configuration, the first movable latch mechanism 3002A can move between the closed configuration and the open configuration.

[0179] As shown, the second movable latch mechanism 3002B includes a second rotatable knob member 3003B, a second rotatable latch member 3004B, a second secondary lock mechanism 3005B, and a second spring 3014B. As shown, the second rotatable knob member 3003B includes- 53 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa second outwardly-facing housing portion 301 IB and a second inwardly-facing housing portion 3013B which are rotatable about a second primary pivot axis P6. where the second outwardly -facing housing portion 301 IB defines a second opened portion 3012B (e.g., cutout) for the second actuatable portion 3025B of the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B. As shown, the second rotatable latch member 3004B is rotatable about the second primary pivot axis P6, where a rotation of the second rotatable knob member 3003B about the second primary pivot axis P6 (e.g., by a user applying a rotational force to the second rotatable knob member 3003B with the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B in the unlocked configuration) causes a corresponding rotation of the second rotatable latch member 3004B about the second primary pivot axis P6 to selectively engage in or disengage from a second recessed, indented, or opened mounting structure defined in a second portion of the panel of the animal containment device. As shown, the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B has a second actuatable portion 3025B (e.g., a spring-loaded member) and a second distal end portion 3015B which are pivotable about a second secondary pivot axis P7. As shown, the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B is biased (e.g., spring biased) to be in a locked configuration in which the second actuatable portion 3025B is disposed within the second opened portion 3012B of the second outwardly-facing housing portion 301 IB of the second rotatable knob member 3003B, and in which the second distal end portion 3015B is engaged in (e.g., disposed within) a second opened structure 3016B defined in the removable accessory panel 3000. As shown, the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B is arranged to be moved to an unlocked configuration by a user pressing the second actuatable portion 3025B in an inward direction, which cases the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B to pivot about the second secondary pivot axis P7 in an outward direction such that the second distal end portion 3015B is disengaged from (e g., not disposed within) the second opened structure 3016B defined in the removable accessory' panel 3000. As shown in FIGS. 30A, 30D, and 30E, when the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B is in the locked configuration, the second movable latch mechanism 3002B is in the closed configuration and cannot move to the open configuration. As shown in FIGS. 30B, 30F, and 30G, when the second secondary lock mechanism 3005B is in the unlocked configuration, the second movable latch mechanism 3002B can move between the closed configuration and the open configuration.

[0180] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 30D and 30F, the removable accessory panel 3000 further includes lower hook mechanisms 3006A and 3006B disposed proximate to the rotatable latch members 3004A and 3004B, respectively, and configured to engage respective underside portions of a bottom tubular member of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 3000 further includes a first plurality of middle hook mechanisms 3070A. 3072A, 3074A, and 3076A that are disposed at vertical intervals along a first- 54 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOside portion of the removable accessory panel 3000 and are configured to engage respective first underside portions of a plurality of middle tubular members (e.g., horizontal cross bar members) of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 3000 further includes a second plurality of middle hook mechanisms 3070B, 3072B, 3074B, and 3076B that are disposed at vertical intervals along a second side portion of the removable accessory panel 3000 and are configured to engage respective second underside portions of the plurality of middle tubular members of the panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the removable accessory panel 3000 further includes a top hook mechanism 3078 that extends along a top portion of the removable accessory panel 3000 and is configured to engage an underside portion of an upper member, such as a locking bar attachment member, of the panel of the animal containment device.

[0181] In some aspects, to remove the removable accessory panel 3000 from the animal containment device when the removable accessory panel 3000 is secured to the animal containment device, a user may:

[0182] (i) begin with the movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B in the closed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 30A, 30D, and 30E) in which (a) the rotatable knob members 3003A and 3003B are oriented in a substantially honzontal direction, (b) the distal end portions 3015A and 3015B of the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B are engaged in the opened structures 3016A and 3016B defined in the removable accessory panel 3000, (c) the rotatable latch members 3004A and 3004B are oriented in a substantially vertical direction and selectively engaged in the respective recessed, indented, or opened mounting structures defined in the panel of the animal containment device, and (d) the lower hook mechanisms 3006A and 3006B, the middle hook mechanisms 3070A, 3070B, 3072A, 3072B, 3074A, 3074B, 3076A, and 3076B, and the top hook mechanism 3078 are secured to the respective portions of the panel of the animal containment device;

[0183] (ii) move the secondary lock mechanisms 3005 A and 3005B to the unlocked configuration by pressing the actuatable portions 3025A and 3025B of the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B in an inward direction, causing the distal end portions 3015A and 3015B of the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B to rotate in an outward direction and disengage (e.g., move out of) the opened structures 3016A and 3016B defined in the removable accessory panel 3000 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 30F and 30G);

[0184] (iii) with the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B in the unlocked configuration (e.g., the distal end portions 3015A and 3015B of the secondary lock mechanisms 3005A and 3005B disengaged from the opened structures 3016A and 3016B defined in the- 55 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOremovable accessory panel 3000), move each of the movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B to the open configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 30B) by rotating each of the rotatable knob members 3003A and 3003B to be oriented in a substantially vertical direction, causing each of the rotatable latch members 3004A and 3004B to rotate to be oriented in a substantially horizontal direction to selectively disengage the respective recessed, indented, or opened mounting structures defined in the panel of the animal containment device; and

[0185] (iv) with movable latch mechanisms 3002A and 3002B in the open configuration (e.g., the rotatable latch members 3004A and 3004B disengaged from the respective recessed, indented, or opened mounting structures defined in the panel of the animal containment device), remove the removable accessory panel 3000 from the animal containment device by pulling the removable accessory panel 3000 in a downward and outward direction to disengage the lower hook mechanisms 3006A and 3006B, the middle hook mechanisms 3070A. 3070B. 3072A, 3072B, 3074A, 3074B, 3076A, and 3076B, and the top hook mechanism 3078 from the respective portions of the panel of the animal containment device.

[0186] FIGS. 31A, 31B, and 31C show an example animal containment system 3100 for airline travel including an example animal containment device 3110 and example removable accessor)’ panels 3200 and 3300 according to aspects of the disclosure. FIG. 31 A is a top view of the animal containment system 3100 having the removable accessor - panels 3200 and 3300 secured to the animal containment device 3110. FIG. 3 IB is a perspective view of the interior side of the removable accessory panel 3200 with the movable latch mechanisms 3202A and 3202B in a closed configuration for securing the removable accessory panel 3200 to the animal containment device 3110. FIG. 31C is a rear cross-sectional view of the animal containment system 3100 along the cross-section C-C’ shown in FIG. 31A.

[0187] In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 3110 includes a bottom panel 3113, top panel 3114, front panel 3117, rear panel 3119. first side panel 3116, and second side panel 3118. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 3110 further includes a door 3180 attached to, or included in, the rear panel 3119. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 3110 further includes a first removable accessor)' panel 3200 configured to attach to the first side panel 3116 in an overlapping arrangement, and a second removable accessory panel 3300 configured to attach to the second side panel 3118 in an overlapping arrangement. In some aspects, the side panels 3116 and 3118 may have substantially mirrored orientations with otherwise substantially similar structures and functionalities. In some aspects, the removable accessory’ panel 3200 and 3300 may have substantially mirrored orientations with otherwise substantially similar structures and functionalities.- 56 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO

[0188] In some aspects, as shown in FIG. 3 IB, the removable accessory' panel 3200 defines a plurality of opened ventilation structures 3230 that reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device to comply with airline requirements. In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 3 IB and 31C, the first side panel 3116 includes a lower member 3186 having recessed mounting structures defined (e.g., formed, molded, indented, cutout, affixed, etc.) therein, and the first removable accessory' panel 3200 includes movable latch mechanisms 3202A and 3202B having rotatable latch members 3204A and 3204B. respectively, configured to selectively engage the recessed mounting structures, respectively, defined in the lower member 3186 of the first side panel 3116.

[0189] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 31B and 31C, the first side panel 3116 further includes a bottom tubular member 3184, and the first removable accessory panel 3200 further includes lower hook mechanisms 3206A and 3206B configured to engage respective underside portions of the bottom tubular member 3184 of the first side panel 3116. In some aspects, as shown, the first side panel 3116 further includes middle tubular members 3182, and the first removable accessory' panel 3200 further includes middle hook mechanisms 3216A and 3216B that are disposed at vertical intervals along respective side portions of the first removable accessory panel 3200 and are configured to engage respective underside portions of the middle tubular members 3182 of the first side panel 3116. In some aspects, as shown, the first side panel 3116 further includes a locking bar attachment member 3190 having locking bar mounting portions 3126A and 3126B, and the first removable accessory panel 3200 further includes a top hook mechanism 3218 that extends along a top portion of the first removable accessory’ panel 3200 and is configured to engage an underside portion of the locking bar attachment member 3190 of the first side panel 3116.

[0190] FIGS. 32A and 32B are perspective and front views, respectively, of an interior side of an example door 3280 for an example animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure. In some aspects, as shown, the door 3280 includes door mounting structures 3283A and 3283B for mounting the door 3280 to a rear panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, as shown, the door 3280 further includes hinge mounting structures 3285A and 3285B for mounting one or more hinge devices (e.g., one or more gas struts, spring-loaded hinges, hydraulic hinges, or the like) to the door 3280. In some aspects, as shown, the door 3280 further includes a door release actuator 2382 that, in response to being actuated (e.g., pressed in an upward direction) by a user when the door 2380 is closed, is arranged to permit the door 3280 to pivot in an upward direction about the pivot axis P8 to open the door 2380. In some aspects, as shown, the door 3280 defines a plurality of opened ventilation structures 3230 that reduce the ventilation space of the animal containment device to comply with airline requirements. For example, each of the opened- 57 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOventilation structures 3230 may be no larger than about 1.00 in. by 1.00 in. (25 mm by 25 mm) to comply with airline requirements for dogs, or no larger than about 0.75 in. by 0.75 in. (19 mm by 19 mm) to comply with airline requirements for cats.

[0191] In some aspects, as shown, the door 3280 includes an identification compartment 3290 formed on or defined in an interior surface of the door 3280 in which an identification device (e.g., GPS tracking device, a Bluetooth tracking device, a smart tag, an electronic item locator, or the like) can be placed to locate the animal containment device to which the door 3280 is attached. As shown, the door 3280 further includes a removable identification compartment cover member 3292 that is attached to the identification compartment 3290 by a fastener 3294 (e.g., a screw or bolt). In some aspects, to place an identification device on the animal containment device, a user may unfasten (e.g., unscrew-) the fastener 3294, remove the removable identification compartment cover member 3292. place the identification device in the identification compartment 3290, attach the removable identification compartment cover member 3292, and fasten the fastener 3294 to secure the removable identification compartment cover member 3292 over the identification compartment 3290 and thereby securely contain the identification device in the identification compartment 3290.

[0192] FIGS. 33A and 33B are perspective and side views, respectively, of an example bowl device 3300 (e.g., a food and / or water bowl) arranged to be mounted to an example animal containment system for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure. In some aspects, in addition to ventilation requirements, airlines may require a food and water bowl for the animal to be attached on the interior of the animal containment device. To comply with such airline requirements, the bowl device 3300 includes an exterior portion 3302 arranged to be disposed outside of the animal containment device (e.g., for adding food and / or water to the bow-1 device 3300 from outside the animal containment device), an interior portion 3304 arranged to be disposed inside of the animal containment device (e.g., the food and / or water container for the animal to eat and / or drink from inside the animal containment device), and a mounting structure 3306 arranged to be secured over a top portion of one of the bottom or middle tubular members (e.g., cross-bars) of one of the side panels of the animal containment device.

[0193] FIGS. 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D are rear, side, and perspective views, respectively, of an example bowl device 3400 (e.g., a food and water bowl) arranged to be mounted to an example animal containment system for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the bowl device 3400 includes a first exterior portion 3402A arranged to be disposed outside of the animal containment device and a first interior portion 3404A arranged to be disposed inside the animal containment device. As shown, the first exterior portion 3402A is connected to the first interior portion 3404A by a downwardly sloping surface pathway such that, when a user adds food- 58 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOor water to the first exterior portion 3402A, the food or water moves or flows by gravitational force into the first interior portion 3404A. As shown, the bowl device 3400 includes a second exterior portion 3402B arranged to be disposed outside of the animal containment device and a second interior portion 3404B arranged to be disposed inside the animal containment device. As shown, the second exterior portion 3402B is connected to the second interior portion 3404B by a downwardly sloping surface pathway such that, when a user adds water or food to the second exterior portion 3402B, the water or food flows or moves by gravitational force into the second interior portion 3404B. As shown, the bowl device 3400 further includes an exterior divider portion 3410 arranged to physically separate the first exterior portion 3402A from the second exterior portion 3402B. As show n, the bowl device 3400 further includes an interior divider portion 3205 arranged to physically separate the first interior portion 3404 A from the second interior portion 3404B.

[0194] As shown, the bowl device 3400 further includes a first top mounting structure 3406A disposed above the first exterior portion 3402A and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a first top portion of a top surface of a first tubular member of one of the side panels of the animal containment device. As shown, the bowl device 3400 further includes a first bottom mounting structure 3408A disposed below the first exterior portion 3402A and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a first bottom portion of a bottom surface of a second tubular member of one of the side panels of the animal containment device. As shown, the bowl device 3400 further includes a second top mounting structure 3406B disposed above the second exterior portion 3402B and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a second top portion of the top surface of the first tubular member. As shown, the bowl device 3400 further includes a second bottom mounting structure 3408B disposed below the second exterior portion 3402B and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a second bottom portion of the bottom surface of the second tubular member. As shown, the bowl device 3400 further includes a first bowl mounting structure 3412 defining an opened structure (e.g., a receiving slot) for engaging a first bowl alignment structure (e.g., a bolt) mounted to the first tubular member to further secure (e.g., by placing the larger opened portion of the receiving slot over the bolt and then sliding the bowl device toward the smaller opened portion of the receiving slot) the bowl device 3400 to the side panel of the animal containment device. As shown, the bowl device 3400 further includes a second bowl mounting structure 3414 defining an opened structure for engaging a second bowl alignment structure mounted to the second tubular member to further secure the bowl device 3400 to the side panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, when the bowl device 3400 is mounted to the interior of the side panel of the animal containment device, the first exterior portion 3402A, the- 59 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOexterior divider portion 3410, and the second exterior portion 3402B are arranged to extend outwardly through an opening between the first and second tubular members of the side panel.

[0195] FIGS. 35A and 35B are perspective and close-up views of another example animal containment system 3500 for airline travel that includes the example bowl device 3400 described with reference to FIGS. 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D mounted to an example animal containment device 3510 according to aspects of the disclosure. As show n, the top mounting structures 3406A and 3406B are secured to respective top portions of a top surface of a first tubular member 3582 of a side panel 3516 of the animal containment device 3510. As shown, the bottom mounting structures 3408A and 3408B are secured to respective bottom portions of a bottom surface of a second tubular member 3584 of the side panel 3516. As shown, the first bowl mounting structure 3412 of the bowl device 3400 is secured to a first bowl alignment structure 3594 (e.g., a bolt) mounted to the first tubular member 3582. As shown, when the bowl device 3400 is mounted to the interior of the side panel 3516, the first exterior portion 3402A, the exterior divider portion 3410, and the second exterior portion 3402B of the bow l device 3400 extend outwardly through an opening between the first tubular member 3582 and the second tubular member 3584 of the side panel 3516.

[0196] FIGS. 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D, and 36E are perspective, rear, and side view s of an example bowl device 3600 (e.g., a food and water bowl) arranged to be mounted to an example animal containment system for airline travel according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the bowl device 3600 includes a first exterior portion 3602A arranged to be disposed outside of the animal containment device and a first interior portion 3604A arranged to be disposed inside the animal containment device. As shown, the first exterior portion 3602 A is connected to the first interior portion 3604A by a downwardly sloping surface pathway such that, when a user adds food or water to the first exterior portion 3602A, the food or water moves or flows by gravitational force into the first interior portion 3604A. As shown, the bowl device 3600 includes a second exterior portion 3602B arranged to be disposed outside of the animal containment device and a second interior portion 3604B arranged to be disposed inside the animal containment device. As shown, the second exterior portion 3602B is connected to the second interior portion 3604B by a downw ardly sloping surface pathway such that, when a user adds water or food to the second exterior portion 3602B, the water or food flows or moves by gravitational force into the second interior portion 3604B. As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes an interior divider portion 3205 arranged to physically separate the first interior portion 3604A from the second interior portion 3604B. As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a first gasket 3603 A and a second gasket 3603B disposed between the front and back panels of the bowl device 3600.

[0197] As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a first top mounting structure 3606A- 60 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOdisposed above the first exterior portion 3602A and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a first top portion of a top surface of a first tubular member of one of the side panels of the animal containment device. As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a first bottom mounting structure 3608 A disposed below the first exterior portion 3602 A and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a first bottom portion of a bottom surface of a second tubular member of one of the side panels of the animal containment device. As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a second top mounting structure 3606B disposed above the second exterior portion 3602B and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a second top portion of the top surface of the first tubular member. As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a second bottom mounting structure 3608B disposed below the second exterior portion 3602B and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a second bottom portion of the bottom surface of the second tubular member. As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a movable lock mechanism 3610 disposed between the exterior portions 3602A and 3602B and arranged to be secured (e.g., hooked or clipped) to a top portion of a top surface of the second tubular member. In some aspects, the movable lock mechanism 3610 has a closed locked configuration (as shown in FIG. 36D) and an open unlocked configuration (as shown in FIG. 36E)

[0198] As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a first bowl mounting structure 3612 defining an opened structure (e.g., a threaded hole-shaped structure) for engaging a fastener (e.g., a bolt or screw) inserted through a first bowl alignment structure mounted to the first tubular member to further secure the bowl device 3600 to the side panel of the animal containment device. As shown, the bowl device 3600 further includes a second bowl mounting structure 3614 defining an opened structure for engaging a fastener inserted through a second bow-1 alignment structure mounted to the second tubular member to further secure the bowl device 3600 to the side panel of the animal containment device. In some aspects, when the bowl device 3600 is mounted to the interior of the side panel of the animal containment device, the first exterior portion 3602A, the movable lock mechanism 3610, and the second exterior portion 3602B are arranged to extend outwardly through an opening betw een the first and second tubular members of the side panel.

[0199] FIGS. 37A and 37B are perspective and side views, respectively, of another example animal containment system 3700 for airline travel that includes the example bowl device 3600 described with reference to FIGS. 36A, 36B, 36C, and 36D mounted to an example animal containment device 3710 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the top mounting structures 3606A and 3606B are secured to respective top portions of a top surface of a first tubular member 3782 of a side panel 3716 of the animal containment device 3710. As shown, the bottom mounting structures 3608A and 3608B are secured to respective bottom portions of a bottom surface- 61 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOof a second tubular member 3784 of the side panel 3716. As shown, the movable lock mechanism 3610 of the bowl device 3600 is secured to the top portion of the top surface of the second tubular member 3784. As shown, the first bowl mounting structure 3612 of the bowl device 3600 is secured to a first bow l alignment structure 3794 (e.g., an alignment tab) mounted to the first tubular member 3782 by a fastener (e.g., a bolt, screw, or rod) inserted through the first bowl alignment structure 3794 and the first tubular member 3782 and into the first bowl mounting structure 3612 of the bowl device 3600. As shown, when the bowl device 3600 is mounted to the interior of the side panel 3716, the first exterior portion 3602A, the movable lock mechanism 3610, and the second exterior portion 3602B of the bowl device 3600 extend outwardly through an opening betw een the first tubular member 3782 and the second tubular member 3784 of the side panel 3716.

[0200] FIGS. 38A and 38B are rear and close-up views, respectively, of an example animal containment system 3800 for airline travel that includes an example animal containment device 3810 having example tunnel structures 3890A, 3890B defined through the door 3880 and the rear panel 3819 of the animal containment device 3810 and arranged to accommodate respective cable ties for securing the door 3880 in a closed locked configuration according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 38C and 38D are rear and close-up views, respectively, of the example animal containment device 3810 with the door 3880 removed according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0201] As shown, the animal containment device 3810 includes a rear panel 3819 and a door 3880. In some aspects, as show n, the animal containment device 3810 further includes a first tunnel structure 3890A defining a first contiguous tunnel through the rear panel 3819 and the door 3880. As shown, the first contiguous tunnel has a first opened structure 3891 A defined on a first exterior door portion of the door 3880, and a second opened structure 3892A defined on a first exterior panel portion of the rear panel 3819, where the opened structures 3891A and 3892A are disposed proximate to each other on the exterior surface of the animal containment device 3810. In some aspects, the first tunnel structure 3890A may be curved or angled such that the first opened structure 3891A is positioned proximate the second opened structure 3892A. In some aspects, a first end of a first cable tie (e.g., zip tie, flexible cord, wire, cable, or other suitable structure) may be inserted into one of the opened structures 3891A, 3892A, fed through the first tunnel structure 3890A, outputted from the other of the opened structures 3891A, 3892A, and fastened to a second end of the first cable tie to secure the door 3880 to the rear panel 3819 (e.g., even when the door release actuator 3882 is actuated). In some aspects, the first cable tie may be removed from the first tunnel structure 3890A to permit the door 3880 to be opened when the door release actuator 3882 is actuated.

[0202] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B, the animal containment device 3810- 62 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOfurther includes a second tunnel structure 3890B defining a second contiguous tunnel through the rear panel 3819 and the door 3880. As shown, the second contiguous tunnel has a third opened structure 3891B defined on a second exterior door portion of the door 3880, and a fourth opened structure 3892B defined on a second exterior panel portion of the rear panel 3819, where the opened structures 389 IB and 3892B are disposed proximate to each other on the exterior surface of the animal containment device 3810. In some aspects, the second tunnel structure 3890B may be curved or angled such that the third opened structure 389 IB is positioned proximate the fourth opened structure 3892B. In some aspects, a third end of a second cable tie (e.g., zip tie, flexible cord, wire, cable, or other suitable structure) may be inserted into one of the opened structures 3891B, 3892B, fed through the second tunnel structure 3890B, outputted from the other of the opened structures 3891B, 3892B, and fastened to a fourth end of the second cable tie to secure the door 3880 to the rear panel 3819 (e.g., even when the door release actuator of the door 3880 is actuated). In some aspects, the second cable tie may be removed from the second tunnel structure 3890B to permit the door 3880 to be opened when the door release actuator is actuated.

[0203] As show n in FIG. 38C, the first contiguous tunnel of the first tunnel structure 3890A further has a fifth opened structure 3893A defined on a first interior panel portion of the rear panel 3819. As shown in FIGS. 38C and 38D, the second contiguous tunnel of the second tunnel structure 3890B further has a sixth opened structure 3893B defined on a second interior panel portion of the rear panel 3819.

[0204] FIGS. 39A and 39B are rear and close-up views, respectively, of an example animal containment system 3900 for airline travel that includes an example animal containment device 3910 having an example tunnel structure 3990 defined through the door 3980 and the rear panel 3919 of the animal containment device 3910 and arranged to accommodate a cable tie 3998 for securing the door 3980 in a closed locked configuration according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0205] As shown, the animal containment device 3910 includes a rear panel 3919 and a door 3980. In some aspects, as shown, the animal containment device 3910 further includes a tunnel structure 3990 defining a contiguous tunnel through the rear panel 3919 and the door 3980. As shown, the contiguous tunnel has a first opened structure 3991 defined on an exterior door portion of the door 3980, and a second opened structure 3992 defined on an exterior panel portion of the rear panel 3919. where the opened structures 3991 and 3992 are disposed proximate to each other on the exterior surface of the animal containment device 3910. In some aspects, the tunnel structure 3990 may be curved or angled such that the first opened structure 3991 is positioned proximate the second opened structure 3992. In some aspects, a first end of a cable tie 3998 (e g., a zip tie, flexible cord. wire, cable, or other suitable structure) may be inserted into one of the opened structures 3991,- 63 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO3992, fed through the tunnel structure 3990, outputted from the other of the opened structures 3991, 3992, and fastened to a second end of the cable tie to secure the door 3980 to the rear panel 3919 (e.g.. even when the door release actuator of the door 3880 is actuated). In some aspects, the cable tie may be removed from the tunnel structure 3990 to permit the door 3980 to be opened when the door release actuator 3982 is actuated.

[0206] The above-described example embodiments may be implemented in various configurations and operated with various methods which are listed below:1. An animal containment device comprising.a base;a wall panel; anda removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the wall panel.2. The animal containment device of claim 1, the removable accessory panel configured to attach to the wall panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the wall panel; anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the wall panel.3. The animal containment device of claim 2, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.4. The animal containment device of claim 2, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the wall panel.5. The animal containment device of claim 1, the wall panel having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the wall panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the wall panel,a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the wall panel, and a lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the wall panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the wall panel.- 64 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WO6. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second wall panel: anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.7. The animal containment device of claim 6, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.8. The animal containment device of claim 7, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.9. The animal containment device of claim 8, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.10. The animal containment device of claim 1. wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel;a door pivotably mounted to the second wall panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the second wall panel and the door,the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the second wall panel.11. The animal containment device of claim 10, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.12. The animal containment device of claim 1. further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.13. The animal containment device of claim 12, the wheel kit further comprising: an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;- 65 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOan outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quick-connection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.14. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.15. The animal containment device of claim 14, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.16. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel; anda load leg positioned proximate the second wall panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.17. The animal containment device of claim 16, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second wall panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.18. The animal containment device of claim 1, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel,- 66 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOwherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energy -absorption assembly is configured toextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.19. The animal containment device of claim 18, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.20. The animal containment device of claim 1, the wall panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.21. The animal containment device of claim 20, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.22. An animal containment device comprising.a base;a wall panel; anda removable accessory panel configured to attach to the wall panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprisingat least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the wall panel, anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the wall panel.23. The animal containment device of claim 22, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.24. The animal containment device of claim 22, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam assembly, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam assembly causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the wall panel.- 67 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO25. The animal containment device of claim 22, the removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the wall panel.26. The animal containment device of claim 22, the wall panel having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the wall panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the wall panel,a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the wall panel, and a lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the wall panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the wall panel.27. The animal containment device of claim 22, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second wall panel; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.28. The animal containment device of claim 27, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.29. The animal containment device of claim 28, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.30. The animal containment device of claim 29, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.31. The animal containment device of claim 22, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel;a door pivotably mounted to the second wall panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the second wall panel and the door.- 68 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the second wall panel.32. The animal containment device of claim 31, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.33. The animal containment device of claim 22, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.34. The animal containment device of claim 33, the wheel kit further comprising: an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quick-connection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.35. The animal containment device of claim 34, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.36. The animal containment device of claim 35, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.37. The animal containment device of claim 22, wherein the wall panel is a first wall- 69 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOpanel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel; anda load leg positioned proximate the second wall panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.38. The animal containment device of claim 37, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second wall panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.39. The animal containment device of claim 22, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured toextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.40. The animal containment device of claim 39, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory' comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.41. The animal containment device of claim 22, the wall panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.42. The animal containment device of claim 41, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.43. An animal containment system comprising:an animal containment device comprising a base and at least one panel having a bowl alignment structure; and- 70 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa bowl device mountable to the at least one panel, the bowl device comprising a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the at least one panel,a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the at least one panel, anda lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the at least one panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the at least one panel.44. The animal containment system of claim 43, wherein the at least one panel is selectively removable from the animal containment device.45. The animal containment system of claim 43, further comprising a removable accessory panel, the removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the at least one panel.46. The animal containment system of claim 43, further comprising:a removable accessory panel configured to attach to the at least one panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the at least one panel, anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the at least one panel.47. The animal containment system of claim 46, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.48. The animal containment system of claim 46, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam assembly, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam assembly causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the at least one panel.49. The animal containment system of claim 43, the at least one panel comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having the bowl alignment structure, the bowl device mountable to the first panel, and the animal containment device further comprising:a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second panel; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.50. The animal containment system of claim 49, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock- 71 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOpin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.51. The animal containment system of claim 50, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.52. The animal containment system of claim 51, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.53. The animal containment system of claim 43, the at least one panel comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having the bowl alignment structure, the bowl device mountable to the first panel, and the animal containment device further comprising:a door pivotably mounted to the second panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the second panel and the door,the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the second panel.54. The animal containment system of claim 53, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.55. The animal containment system of claim 43, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.56. The animal containment system of claim 55, the wheel kit further comprising: an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quick-connection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; and- 72 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.57. The animal containment system of claim 56, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.58. The animal containment system of claim 57, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.59. The animal containment system of claim 43, the at least one panel comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having the bowl alignment structure, the bowl device mountable to the first panel, and the animal containment device further comprising:a load leg positioned proximate the second panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.60. The animal containment system of claim 59, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.61. The animal containment system of claim 43, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured toextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.62. The animal containment system of claim 61, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the- 73 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOtop panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.63. The animal containment system of claim 43. the at least one panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.64. The animal containment system of claim 63, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.65. The animal containment system of claim 64, further comprising the second animal containment device.66. An animal containment device comprising:a base having a first portion and a second portion;a first sidewall extending from the first portion of the base;a second sidewall extending from the second portion of the base;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the first sidewall; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.67. The animal containment device of claim 66, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.68. The animal containment device of claim 67, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.69. The animal containment device of claim 67, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.70. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising a removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the second sidewall.71. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising a removable- 74 - 9513043.2Atorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOaccessory panel configured to atach to the second sidewall in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the second sidewall; anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the second sidewall.72. The animal containment device of claim 71, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.73. The animal containment device of claim 71, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the second sidewall.74. The animal containment device of claim 66, the second sidewall having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the second sidewall, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the second sidewall,a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the second sidewall, and a lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the second sidewall when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the second sidewall.75. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising:a third sidewall extending from a third portion of the base;a door pivotably mounted to the third sidewall; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the third sidewall and the door,the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the third sidewall.76. The animal containment device of claim 75, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.77. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively atachable to a first- 75 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOend of the animal containment device.78. The animal containment device of claim 77, the wheel kit further comprising: an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quick-connection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.79. The animal containment device of claim 78, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.80. The animal containment device of claim 79, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.81. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising:a load leg positioned proximate the first sidewall and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.82. The animal containment device of claim 81. the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the first sidewall, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.83. The animal containment device of claim 66, the animal containment device further- 76 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOcomprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory', the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured toextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.84. The animal containment device of claim 83, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory comprises an accessory' bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory' bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.85. The animal containment device of claim 66, the second sidewall comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.86. The animal containment device of claim 85, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.87. An animal containment system comprising:an animal containment device comprising a panel and a door; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the panel and the door, the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the panel.88. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.89. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second panel; anda removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively- 77 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOattach the removable accessory panel to the second panel.90. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second panel; anda removable accessory panel configured to attach to the second panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the second panel; anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the second panel.91. The animal containment system of claim 90, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.92. The animal containment system of claim 91, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the second panel.93. The animal containment system of claim 87, the panel having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the panel, a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the panel, and a lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the panel.94. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second panel;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second panel; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.95. The animal containment system of claim 94, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.96. The animal containment system of claim 95, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein- 78 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.97. The animal containment system of claim 96, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.98. The animal containment system of claim 87, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.99. The animal containment system of claim 98, the wheel kit further comprising: an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quick-connection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.100. The animal containment system of claim 99, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.101. The animal containment system of claim 100, the bottom side of the quickconnection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.102. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:- 79 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa second panel; anda load leg positioned proximate the second panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.103. The animal containment system of claim 102, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.104. The animal containment system of claim 87, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory', the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured to:extend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle; andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.105. The animal containment system of claim 104, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory' comprises an accessory' bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory' bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.106. The animal containment system of claim 87, the panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.107. The animal containment system of claim 106, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.108. The animal containment system of claim 107, further comprising the second animal containment device.109. An animal containment system comprising:an animal containment device; and- 80 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.110. The animal containment system of claim 109, the wheel kit further comprising: an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quick-connection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.111. The animal containment system of claim 110, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.112. The animal containment system of claim 111, the bottom side of the quickconnection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.113. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel, and the animal containment system further comprising a removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the panel.114. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel, and the animal containment system further comprising a removable accessory panel configured to attach to the panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:- 81 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOat least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the panel; and a movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the panel.115. The animal containment system of claim 114, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.116. The animal containment system of claim 115, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the panel.117. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel having a bowl alignment structure, and the animal containment system further comprising a bowl device mountable to the panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the panel, a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the panel, and a lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the panel.118. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising:a pair of wheels positioned proximate a second end of the animal containment device; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.119. The animal containment system of claim 118, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.120. The animal containment system of claim 119, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality7of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, w herein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.121. The animal containment system of claim 120, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of w heels.122. The animal containment device of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising:- 82 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa panel;a door pivotably mounted to the panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the panel and the door, the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the panel.123. The animal containment device of claim 122, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.124. The animal containment system of claim 109, further comprising:a load leg positioned proximate a second end of the animal containment device and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.125. The animal containment system of claim 124, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second end of the animal containment device, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.126. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured to:extend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle; andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.127. The animal containment system of claim 126, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessors’ bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.128. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel, the panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.- 83 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO129. The animal containment system of claim 128, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.130. The animal containment system of claim 129, further comprising the second animal containment device.

[0207] While certain examples, aspects, and embodiments have been described, these examples, aspects, and embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure herein. Thus, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to imply that any particular feature, characteristic, structure, element, component, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable. Indeed, the improved systems, devices, and methods described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the systems, devices, and methods described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure herein. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of certain of the example aspects and / or embodiments disclosed herein.

[0208] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art of the present disclosure that changes may be made to the examples, aspects, and / or embodiments described above without departing from the disclosure thereof. It should further be appreciated that structural features and methods associated with one of the examples, aspects, and / or embodiments can be incorporated into other examples, aspects, and / or embodiments. It is understood, therefore, that this disclosure is not limited to the particular examples, aspects, and embodiments disclosed, but rather modifications are also covered within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0209] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an example aspect or embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular aspect and / or embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all aspects and embodiments falling within the scope of the- 84 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOclaims.

[0210] Although the elements in the following method claims, if any, are recited in a particular sequence with corresponding labeling, unless the claim recitations otherwise imply a particular sequence for implementing some or all of those elements, those elements are not necessarily intended to be limited to being implemented in that particular sequence.- 85 - 9513043.2

Claims

Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An animal containment device comprising.a base;a wall panel; anda removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the wall panel.

2. The animal containment device of claim 1, the removable accessory panel configured to attach to the wall panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the wall panel; and a movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the wall panel.

3. The animal containment device of claim 2, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.

4. The animal containment device of claim 2, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the wall panel.

5. The animal containment device of claim 1, the wall panel having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the wall panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the wall panel, a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the wall panel, anda lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the wall panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the wall panel.

6. The animal containment device of claim 1 , wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:- 86 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa second wall panel;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second wall panel; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.

7. The animal containment device of claim 6, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a holeshaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.

8. The animal containment device of claim 7, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.

9. The animal containment device of claim 8, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.

10. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel;a door pivotably mounted to the second wall panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the second wall panel and the door, the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the second wall panel.

11. The animal containment device of claim 10, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.

12. The animal containment device of claim 1, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.- 87 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WO13. The animal containment device of claim 12, the wheel kit further comprising:an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quickconnection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.

14. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.

15. The animal containment device of claim 14, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.

16. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel; anda load leg positioned proximate the second wall panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.- 88 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO17. The animal containment device of claim 16, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second wall panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.

18. The animal containment device of claim 1, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured toextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

19. The animal containment device of claim 18, wherein the top multi-purpose accessor}’ comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory' bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.

20. The animal containment device of claim 1, the wall panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.

21. The animal containment device of claim 20, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.

22. An animal containment device comprising.a base;a wall panel; and- 89 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa removable accessory panel configured to attach to the wall panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprisingat least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the wall panel, anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the wall panel.

23. The animal containment device of claim 22, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.

24. The animal containment device of claim 22, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam assembly, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam assembly causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the wall panel.

25. The animal containment device of claim 22, the removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the wall panel.

26. The animal containment device of claim 22, the wall panel having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the wall panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the wall panel, a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the wall panel, anda lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the wall panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the wall panel.

27. The animal containment device of claim 22, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second wall panel; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.

28. The animal containment device of claim 27, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a- 90 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOhole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.

29. The animal containment device of claim 28, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.

30. The animal containment device of claim 29, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.

31. The animal containment device of claim 22, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel;a door pivotably mounted to the second wall panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the second wall panel and the door, the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the second wall panel.

32. The animal containment device of claim 31 , wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.

33. The animal containment device of claim 22, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.

34. The animal containment device of claim 33. the wheel kit further comprising:an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion- 91 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOof the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quickconnection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.

35. The animal containment device of claim 34, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.

36. The animal containment device of claim 35, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.

37. The animal containment device of claim 22, wherein the wall panel is a first wall panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second wall panel; anda load leg positioned proximate the second wall panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

38. The animal containment device of claim 37. the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second wall panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.- 92 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WO39. The animal containment device of claim 22, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured toextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

40. The animal containment device of claim 39, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.

41. The animal containment device of claim 22, the wall panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.

42. The animal containment device of claim 41, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.

43. An animal containment system comprising:an animal containment device comprising a base and at least one panel having a bowl alignment structure; anda bowl device mountable to the at least one panel, the bowl device comprisinga mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the at least one panel,a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the at least one panel, and a lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion- 93 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOof the at least one panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the at least one panel.

44. The animal containment system of claim 43, wherein the at least one panel is selectively removable from the animal containment device.

45. The animal containment system of claim 43, further comprising a removable accessory’ panel, the removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory' panel to the at least one panel.

46. The animal containment system of claim 43, further comprising:a removable accessory panel configured to attach to the at least one panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the at least one panel, anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the at least one panel.

47. The animal containment system of claim 46, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.

48. The animal containment system of claim 46, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam assembly, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam assembly causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the at least one panel.

49. The animal containment system of claim 43, the at least one panel comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having the bowl alignment structure, the bowl device mountable to the first panel, and the animal containment device further comprising:a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second panel; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.

50. The animal containment system of claim 49, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably- 94 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOengageable in the hole-shaped portion.

51. The animal containment system of claim 50, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.

52. The animal containment system of claim 51, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.

53. The animal containment system of claim 43, the at least one panel comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having the bowl alignment structure, the bowl device mountable to the first panel, and the animal containment device further comprising:a door pivotably mounted to the second panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the second panel and the door, the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the second panel.

54. The animal containment system of claim 53, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.

55. The animal containment system of claim 43, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.

56. The animal containment system of claim 55, the wheel kit further comprising:an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; and- 95 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quickconnection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.

57. The animal containment system of claim 56, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downw ard beneath the quick-connection member.

58. The animal containment system of claim 57, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.

59. The animal containment system of claim 43, the at least one panel comprising a first panel and a second panel, the first panel having the bowl alignment structure, the bowl device mountable to the first panel, and the animal containment device further comprising:a load leg positioned proximate the second panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

60. The animal containment system of claim 59, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.

61. The animal containment system of claim 43, the animal containment device further- 96 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOcomprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory', the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured toextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

62. The animal containment system of claim 61, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory' comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory' bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.

63. The animal containment system of claim 43, the at least one panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.

64. The animal containment system of claim 63, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity' to the first animal containment device.

65. The animal containment system of claim 64, further comprising the second animal containment device.

66. An animal containment device comprising:a base having a first portion and a second portion;a first sidewall extending from the first portion of the base;a second sidewall extending from the second portion of the base;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the first sidewall; anda wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.- 97 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO67. The animal containment device of claim 66, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.

68. The animal containment device of claim 67, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.

69. The animal containment device of claim 67. wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.

70. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising a removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the second sidewall.

71. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising a removable accessory panel configured to attach to the second sidewall in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the second sidewall: anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the second sidewall.

72. The animal containment device of claim 71, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.

73. The animal containment device of claim 71, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the second sidewall.- 98 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO74. The animal containment device of claim 66, the second sidewall having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the second sidewall, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the second sidewall,a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the second sidewall, anda lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the second sidewall when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the second sidewall.

75. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising:a third sidewall extending from a third portion of the base;a door pivotably mounted to the third sidewall; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the third sidewall and the door, the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the third sidewall.

76. The animal containment device of claim 75, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.

77. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.

78. The animal containment device of claim 77, the wheel kit further comprising:an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,- 99 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quickconnection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.

79. The animal containment device of claim 78. wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downward beneath the quick-connection member.

80. The animal containment device of claim 79, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.

81. The animal containment device of claim 66, further comprising:a load leg positioned proximate the first sidewall and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

82. The animal containment device of claim 81. the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the first sidewall, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.

83. The animal containment device of claim 66, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured to- 100 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOextend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle, andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

84. The animal containment device of claim 83, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory’ bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.

85. The animal containment device of claim 66, the second sidewall comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by’ a locking bar assembly.

86. The animal containment device of claim 85, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity’ to the first animal containment device.

87. An animal containment system comprising:an animal containment device comprising a panel and a door; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the panel and the door, the contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the panel.

88. The animal containment system of claim 87. wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.

89. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:- 101 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa second panel; anda removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the second panel.

90. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second panel; anda removable accessors' panel configured to attach to the second panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the second panel; anda movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the second panel.

91. The animal containment system of claim 90, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.

92. The animal containment system of claim 91, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook mechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the second panel.

93. The animal containment system of claim 87, the panel having a bowl alignment structure, the animal containment device further comprising a bowl device mountable to the panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the panel, a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the panel, anda lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the panel.

94. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second panel;a pair of wheels positioned proximate the second panel; and- 102 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOa wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.

95. The animal containment system of claim 94, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.

96. The animal containment system of claim 95, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.

97. The animal containment system of claim 96, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.

98. The animal containment system of claim 87, further comprising a wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.

99. The animal containment system of claim 98, the wheel kit further comprising:an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quickconnection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device; anda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.

100. The animal containment system of claim 99, wherein the wheel kit has:- 103 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOan extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downw ard beneath the quick-connection member.

101. The animal containment system of claim 100, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.

102. The animal containment system of claim 87, wherein the panel is a first panel, the animal containment device further comprising:a second panel; anda load leg positioned proximate the second panel and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

103. The animal containment system of claim 102, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second panel, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.

104. The animal containment system of claim 87, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured to:extend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle; andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.- 104 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WO105. The animal containment system of claim 104, wherein the top multi-purpose accessory comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.

106. The animal containment system of claim 87, the panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.

107. The animal containment system of claim 106, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.

108. The animal containment system of claim 107, further comprising the second animal containment device.

109. An animal containment system comprising:an animal containment device: anda wheel kit comprising at least one wheel and a handle, wherein the wheel kit is selectively attachable to a first end of the animal containment device.

110. The animal containment system of claim 109, the wheel kit further comprising:an inner telescoping member having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion of the inner telescoping member being mounted to the handle;an outer telescoping member having a third end portion and a fourth end portion, the fourth end portion of the outer telescoping member being telescopically mounted to the first end portion of the inner telescoping member; anda quick-connection member pivotably mounted to the third end portion of the outer telescoping member,the quick-connection member having a top side and a bottom side, the top side of the quickconnection member being selectively attachable to the first end of the animal containment device;- 105 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WOanda pair of wheels disposed on the bottom side of the quick-connection member, the pair of wheels comprising the at least one wheel.

111. The animal containment system of claim 110, wherein the wheel kit has:an extended configuration in which the inner telescoping member is extended away from the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated upward above the top side of the quick-connection member; anda collapsed configuration in which the inner telescoping member is inserted into the outer telescoping member, and the outer telescoping member is pivotably rotated downw ard beneath the quick-connection member.

112. The animal containment system of claim 111, the bottom side of the quick-connection member having a recessed portion configured to receive a portion of the outer telescoping member, wherein, in the collapsed configuration, the portion of the outer telescoping member is disposed within the recessed portion.

113. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel, and the animal containment system further comprising a removable accessory panel comprising a two-stage latch configured to selectively attach the removable accessory panel to the panel.

114. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel, and the animal containment system further comprising a removable accessory panel configured to attach to the panel in an overlapping arrangement, the removable accessory panel comprising:at least one hook mechanism configured to engage a first portion of the panel; and a movable latch mechanism configured to selectively engage a second portion of the panel.

115. The animal containment system of claim 114, the movable latch mechanism comprising a single actuator and a single engaging member.

116. The animal containment system of claim 115, the movable latch mechanism comprising a cam, wherein, when the movable latch mechanism is actuated, the cam causes the at least one hook- 106 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOmechanism of the removable accessory panel to move into engagement with the first portion of the panel.

117. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel having a bowl alignment structure, and the animal containment system further comprising a bowl device mountable to the panel, the bowl device comprising:a mounting structure configured to engage the bowl alignment structure of the panel. a hook mechanism configured to engage a portion of the panel, anda lock mechanism configured to automatically hold the bowl device on the portion of the panel when the hook mechanism and the mounting structure are both engaged with the panel.

118. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising:a pair of wheels positioned proximate a second end of the animal containment device; and a wheel lock mechanism comprising a wheel lock actuator and a wheel lock retention mechanism.

119. The animal containment system of claim 118, at least one of the pair of wheels defining a hole-shaped portion, and the wheel lock retention mechanism comprising a wheel lock pin slidably engageable in the hole-shaped portion.

120. The animal containment system of claim 119, the at least one of the pair of wheels comprising a plurality of opened structures defining a plurality of hole-shaped portions, wherein the plurality of hole-shaped portions comprises the hole-shaped portion, and wherein each of the plurality of hole-shaped portions is configured to receive the wheel lock pin to lock the at least one of the pair of wheels.

121. The animal containment system of claim 120, wherein the wheel lock pin is slidable in a direction that is substantially parallel to a rotation axis of the at least one of the pair of wheels.

122. The animal containment device of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising:a panel;a door pivotably mounted to the panel; anda tunnel structure defining a contiguous tunnel through the panel and the door,- 107 - 9513043.2Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT019WOthe contiguous tunnel having a first opened structure defined on a first exterior portion of the door, andthe contiguous tunnel having a second opened structure defined on a second exterior portion of the panel.

123. The animal containment device of claim 122, wherein the tunnel structure is curved or angled such that the first opened structure is positioned proximate the second opened structure.

124. The animal containment system of claim 109, further comprising:a load leg positioned proximate a second end of the animal containment device and extendable toward a surface of a vehicle, wherein the load leg is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the surface of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

125. The animal containment system of claim 124, the load leg comprising a pivotable toggle assembly disposed proximate the second end of the animal containment device, the pivotable toggle assembly having a first end configured to retain the load leg in a retracted position, and a second end configured to lock the load leg in an extended position.

126. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a top panel, and a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, the top energy-absorption assembly being selectively attachable to the top panel, wherein, when the top energy-absorption assembly is attached to the top panel, the top energyabsorption assembly is configured to:extend at least partially upwards above the top panel toward a ceiling portion of a vehicle; andreduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

127. The animal containment system of claim 126. wherein the top multi-purpose accessors’ comprises an accessory bag, wherein the accessory bag is selectively attachable to the top panel, and wherein, when not attached to the top panel, the accessory bag is selectively attachable to a backpack adapter.- 108 - 9513043.2Attomey Docket No. JANI-PT019WO128. The animal containment system of claim 109, the animal containment device further comprising a panel, the panel comprising a locking bar attachment structure configured to be attached to by a locking bar assembly.

129. The animal containment system of claim 128, further comprising the locking bar assembly, wherein the animal containment device is a first animal containment device and the locking bar attachment structure is a first locking bar attachment structure, and wherein the locking bar assembly is configured to attach to the first locking bar attachment structure of the first animal containment device and a second locking bar attachment structure of a second animal containment device to hold the second animal containment device in proximity to the first animal containment device.

130. The animal containment system of claim 129, further comprising the second animal containment device.

131. The animal containment device of claim 1, the removable accessory panel being substantially coextensive with the wall panel when the removable accessory panel is attached to the wall panel.

132. The animal containment device of claim 1, the removable accessory panel having a first overall area, the wall panel having a second overall area, and the first overall area of the removable accessory panel being about 80% to about 100% of the second overall area of the wall panel.- 109 - 9513043.2

Images