U.S. patent application number 14/144201 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-02 for palatable, long-lasting pet chew product.
This patent application is currently assigned to REDBARN PET PRODUCTS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Redbarn Pet Products, Inc.. Invention is credited to Jeff Baikie.
Application Number | 20150181839 14/144201 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53480337 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150181839 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Baikie; Jeff |
July 2, 2015 |
PALATABLE, LONG-LASTING PET CHEW PRODUCT
Abstract
Disclosed herein are pet chew products and methods for making
them. The methods include sewing together strips of material
obtained from a bovine or from other animals to form an outline of
a desired shape; interweaving additional strips of rawhide, animal
penis or both under and on top of the strips forming an outline to
form a pet chew product of desired shape and size; and drying the
pet chew product to the desired moisture content.
Inventors: |
Baikie; Jeff; (Long Beach,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Redbarn Pet Products, Inc. |
Long Beach |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
REDBARN PET PRODUCTS, INC.
Long Beach
CA
|
Family ID: |
53480337 |
Appl. No.: |
14/144201 |
Filed: |
December 30, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
119/710 ;
112/475.08; 28/165 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01K 15/026
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01K 11/00 20060101
A01K011/00; D06C 7/00 20060101 D06C007/00; A01K 15/02 20060101
A01K015/02; D05B 15/00 20060101 D05B015/00 |
Claims
1. A pet chew product comprising strips of material obtained from a
bovine or from other animals, the strips being interwoven to form a
substantially spherical pet chew with a hollow center.
2. The pet chew product of claim 1, wherein the material obtained
from a bovine or from other animals comprises rawhide or pizzle or
both obtained from bovine animals.
3. The pet chew product of claim 2, wherein the bovine animal is a
bull, steer, cow or an ox.
4. The pet chew product of claim 3, wherein the rawhide material is
lightly bleached.
5. The pet chew product of claim 3, wherein the ratio of rawhide
fraction to pizzle fraction is 2:1.
6. The pet chew product of claim 3, wherein the ratio of rawhide
fraction to pizzle fraction is 1:1.
7. The pet chew product of claim 3, wherein the ratio of rawhide
fraction to pizzle fraction is 1:2.
8. The pet chew product of claim 1, wherein the strips are sewn
together using an edible sewing material.
9. The pet chew product of claim 8, edible sewing material is
catgut.
10. The pet chew product of claim 1, wherein the strips have a
length of about 5 cm to about 100 cm.
11. The pet chew product of claim 1, wherein the strips have a
width of about 1 mm to about 20 mm.
12. The pet chew product of claim 1, wherein the diameter of the
substantially spherical pet chew is about 5 cm to about 20 cm.
13. A method of forming a substantially spherical a pet chew
product comprising sewing together strips of material obtained from
a bovine or from other animals to form an outline; interweaving
additional strips of rawhide, animal penis or both under and on top
of the strips forming an outline to form a substantially spherical
pet chew product of desired circumference; and drying the pet chew
product to the desired moisture content.
14. A method of forming a substantially spherical pet chew product
from strips of material obtained from a bovine animal, comprising:
fabricating flat shape strips of rawhide and/or animal pizzle;
interweaving the strips over a substantially spherical substrate in
the length and number required to obtain a substantially spherical
pet chew product; dehydrating the pet chew product in a dryer about
15 h at about 45.degree. C.; removing the substantially spherical
substrate; drying the pet chew product again for about 4 h at about
45.degree. C.; and sterilizing the pet chew product in a
sterilizing oven for about 10 h at about 100.degree. C.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the moisture content of the pet
chew product is about 10%.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the spherical substrate is a
balloon.
17. The method of claim 14, wherein the spherical substrate is an
ice ball.
18. The method of claim 14, wherein the strips have a length of
about 5 cm to about 100 cm.
19. The method of claim 14, wherein the strips have a width of
about 1 mm to about 20 mm.
20. The method of claim 14, wherein the number of strips used to
form the pet chew product is about 9.
21. The method of claim 14, wherein the substantially spherical pet
chew product has a diameter of about 5 cm to about 20 cm.
22. A pet chew product obtained by the method of claim 14.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present technology relates to a palatable and
long-lasting pet chew product and methods for making and using the
pet chew product.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Pets, such as dogs and cats, are known to bite, scratch,
gnaw, lick and chew upon objects, particularly items such as
natural bones or other objects such shoes, furniture and other
household items causing unwanted damage to these items. As an
answer to this problem, the pet industry has developed natural and
synthetic chew toys which are manufactured in various shapes and
sizes for dogs and other pets to chew on.
[0003] Some pets like to chew on hard materials such as bones and
wood. However, such hard materials can break the pet's teeth or
cause splinters which can affect the digestive track. Very young
and old pets that may not have strong teeth prefer to chew on
softer toys made from plastic, rubber or other elastomers. Although
these toys are long lasting and durable, they fail to hold the
pet's interest for long owing to the lack of flavor or texture.
[0004] Chew toys molded from consumable material such as chicken,
meat, fish, natural grains etc. have gained popularity among pet
lovers in recent years. Some of the edible chews, however, can be
consumed very quickly and therefore fail to hold the pet's interest
for long. Attempts have also been made to develop toys that attract
pets, such as providing toys in the various shapes and sizes so as
to allow the pets to hold, pick, chew or even play with them, thus
providing a means for maintaining interest in the toy. However,
some of these pet chew toys can be easily swallowed and can be a
choking hazard or even cause bowel obstruction in pets. Some of the
chew toys available in the market tout benefits such as serving to
distract the pet from chewing on other objects or to clean the
teeth of pets, providing for dental hygiene and resulting in better
breath.
[0005] While the above developments contribute to the art of
providing pet chew products, there is still a need for improvement.
The present invention thus contemplates a safe, palatable and
long-lasting chew product which combines the art of chew products
and toys and provides a pet chew product having improved design and
functional characteristics.
SUMMARY
[0006] In one embodiment, a palatable, long-lasting pet chew
product is provided, wherein the product includes a pet chew
product which includes strips of material obtained from a bovine or
from other animals, the strips being interwoven to form a
substantially spherical pet chew with a hollow center.
[0007] In one embodiment, a method of forming a palatable,
long-lasting pet chew product is provided, wherein the method
includes sewing together strips of rawhide, animal penis or both to
form an outline; interweaving strips of rawhide, animal penis or
both under and on top of the strips forming an outline to form a
substantially spherical pet chew product of desired circumference;
and drying the pet chew product to the desired moisture
content.
[0008] In another embodiment, a method of forming a substantially
spherical pet chew product from strips of material obtained from a
bovine animal, is provided, wherein the method includes fabricating
flat shape strips of rawhide and/or animal pizzle; interweaving the
strips over a spherical substrate in the length and number required
to obtain a substantially spherical pet chew product; dehydrating
the pet chew product in a dryer about 15 h at about 45.degree. C.;
removing the spherical substrate; drying the pet chew product again
for about 4 h at about 45.degree. C.; and sterilizing the pet chew
product in a sterilizing oven for about 10 h at about 100.degree.
C.
[0009] In yet another embodiment, a method of preventing and/or
reducing breath odor and plaque and tartar buildup in a pet is
provided, the method comprising providing the pet with a pet chew
product having
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of
the pet chew product wherein a plurality of strips of flat rawhide
and/or a plurality of strips of steer penises are woven into a
substantially spherical pet chew product.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a pictorial view of various embodiments of the pet
chew of FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a close up view of one embodiment of the pet chew
product comprising a treat embedded therein.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of
the pet chew product wherein a plurality of strips of flat rawhide
or a plurality of strips of steer penises are woven into a
substantially spherical pet chew product.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of
the pet chew product wherein a plurality of strips of flat rawhide
and/or a plurality of strips of steer penises are woven into a
substantially spherical pet chew product comprising a treat
embedded therein.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of
the pet chew product wherein a plurality of strips of flat rawhide
and/or a plurality of strips of steer penises are woven into a
substantially football shaped pet chew product.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of
the pet chew product wherein a plurality of strips of flat rawhide
and/or a plurality of strips of steer penises are woven into an
uneven shaped pet chew product.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the pet
chew product.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 8, wherein
the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical to the
front view.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
pet chew product.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 10,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of
the pet chew product.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 12,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
[0023] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of
the pet chew product.
[0024] FIG. 15 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 14,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
[0025] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
pet chew product.
[0026] FIG. 17 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 16,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] Various embodiments are described hereinafter. It should be
noted that the specific embodiments are not intended as an
exhaustive description or as a limitation to the broader aspects
discussed herein. One aspect described in conjunction with a
particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment
and can be practiced with any other embodiment(s). The description
of the preferred embodiment as set forth herein, and as depicted in
the drawings, is provided for illustrative purposes only.
[0028] The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar
referents in the context of describing the elements (especially in
the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover
both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein
or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values
herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of
referring individually to each separate value falling within the
range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value
is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually
recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in
any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise
clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples,
or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is
intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments and does not
pose a limitation on the scope of the claims unless otherwise
stated. No language in the specification should be construed as
indicating any non-claimed element as essential.
[0029] The expression "comprising" means "including, but not
limited to." Thus, other non-mentioned substances, additives,
carriers, or steps may be present. Unless otherwise specified, "a"
or "an" means one or more.
[0030] As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all
combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0031] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing
quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth, used
in the specification and claims are to be understood as being
modified in all instances by the term "about." Accordingly, unless
indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in
the following specification and attached claims are approximations.
Each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of
the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary
rounding techniques. The term "about" when used before a numerical
designation, e.g., temperature, time, amount, and concentration,
including range, indicates approximations which may vary by (+) or
(-) 10%, 5% or 1%.
[0032] As used herein, the term "animal" is used in a general sense
and means a human or other animal including, without limitation,
avian, bovine, canine, equine, feline, lupine, murine, ovine, and
porcine animals, thus encompassing pets.
[0033] As used herein, a "pet" refers to a non-human domesticated
animal or a companion animal including, without limitation, cats,
dogs, mice, horses, birds, cows, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets,
hamsters, chinchillas, gerbils, goats, sheep, donkeys, pigs, fish,
and the like. In certain embodiments, the present invention
concerns domestic pets such as dogs and cats. In some embodiments,
the invention concerns dogs. However, although the present
disclosure exemplifies dogs and cats, the invention can be adapted
for use with other classes of pet animals.
[0034] "Pet chews" are products intended to be chewed by a pet for
an extended period of time, being distinguished from "pet food" or
"pet treats," which are consumed and digested in a relatively short
period of time.
[0035] As used herein, the term "palatable" or "palatability"
refers to the eating quality of chew products. For example, the
palatable pet chew will likely have an agreeable or pleasant taste
upon consumption and possess an appetizing appearance, odor and
texture.
[0036] As used herein, the term "spherical" or "substantially
spherical" is intended to include spherical or round structures and
structures that closely resemble a circle. These include shapes
that are a circle in the classical geometric sense, i.e., with a
constant diameter, but also broadly includes any shape that is
rounded, including a circle having an irregular diameter, an oval,
an elliptical shape, or even the irregular oval shape.
[0037] Although some of the embodiments below are discussed with
respect to a spherical pet chew product, the pet chew product can
have any three-dimensional shape known in the art.
[0038] The present invention provides a new combination of
ingredients and design which makes it possible to produce a chew
product for pet consumption, which is palatable, long lasting,
entertaining and can function as a dental hygiene product, a treat
or toy.
[0039] Thus, in one embodiment, a palatable, long-lasting pet chew
product is provided, wherein the product includes a pet chew
comprised of strips of edible material which are interwoven to form
a pet chew of desired shape and size.
[0040] In one embodiment, a pet chew product comprising strips of
material obtained from a bovine or from other animals, the strips
being interwoven to form a substantially spherical pet chew with a
hollow center.
[0041] The pet chew is, in one embodiment, made from edible raw
materials. Suitable edible raw materials used to make the pet chew
product include, but are not limited to, dried or cured animal
meat, chicken, pork, beef, duck, goose, turkey, poultry meat, fish,
animal skin or hide, animal body parts such as penis or pizzle,
viscera, liver, lung, heart, fat, snouts, ears, tripe, tendons, and
knuckles, fruit, dried vegetable, carrot, sweet potato, potato,
cellulose, hemp, coconut, grass, flax, and the like. In certain
embodiments, the pet chew product comprises edible materials
obtained from a bovine or from other animals. In some embodiments,
the pet chew product includes rawhide or penis or both obtained
from bovine animals, including, but not limited to bull, steer,
cow, ox and the like or from other animals, such as the deer, elk,
or even other deceased animals, or even animals that are legally
hunted in the wild.
[0042] In some embodiments, the edible pet chew may be made of
strips obtained from animal skin, for example rawhide or porkhide
sheet. In some embodiments, the rawhide may be lightly bleached
prior to use. In some embodiments, the rawhide strips are thin,
chewy, malleable and long-lasting for chewing. In other
embodiments, the edible pet chew may be made from bull, or steer,
penises-called "pizzle" which have had the foreskin removed and
which have been cleaned. In some embodiments, the pet chew product
may be made of a combination of rawhide and pizzle. The pet chew is
created by weaving together combinations of the preformed rawhide
strips with fresh cleaned pizzle strips. Any suitable number of
rawhide and/or pizzle strips can be used to produce the pet chew
product. In one embodiment, about 50 to about 3, about 40 to about
5, about 30 to about 7, about 15 to about 9, or about 12 to about
10 strips are used for making the pet chew product and can be
composed of any ratio of rawhide strips to pizzle strips.
[0043] The physical constituency of the pet chew product is such
that it provides a long-lasting, palatable, nutritional and
engaging chew for the pet. The pet chew product is designed to
provide a chew with both high palatability and an extended chew
time. The balance between these two properties depends among other
factors, on the ratio of the number of strips of rawhide to the
number of strips of pizzle. In general, the palatability of the end
product will be greater with a higher percentage of penis strips,
while the chew-time of the finished product will be longer with a
higher percentage of rawhide strips. Thus, the ratio of rawhide to
pizzle fraction can be altered to obtain a pet chew product having
higher palatability or longer chew time or a balance of both
properties. For example, in some embodiments the ratio of rawhide
fraction to pizzle fraction is in the range of about 10:1, about
5:1, about 2:1, about 1:1, about 1:2, about 1:5 or about 1:10. In
some embodiments, the ratio of rawhide fraction to pizzle fraction
is in the range of about 2:1. In some embodiments, the ratio of
rawhide fraction to pizzle fraction is in the range of about
1:1.
[0044] The rawhide and/or pizzle strips can be interwoven to form a
pet chew of desired shape and size. The pet chew product may be
designed to have any 3-dimensional shape known in the art,
including, but not limited to longitudinal, spherical, football,
triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal,
oval, elliptical, egg shaped, helical, knot shaped, disc shaped a
sphere, cone, cylinder and the like. The pet chew product can be
designed to provide a large surface area. Thus in one embodiment,
the rawhide and/or pizzle strips are interwoven to form a
substantially spherical shaped pet chew. The method of weaving and
the number of strips of parts of the rawhide and/or pizzle that are
woven together will depend upon the size of the substantially
spherical pet chew product and the consistency of the strips that
are desired for the final product.
[0045] In other words, multiple strips of rawhide, and/or multiple
strips of the pizzle may be woven together to obtain the desired
consistency of the pet chew. The number of the strips used is only
limited by the size of the pet chew as desired for the final
product. For example, if a spherical pet chew of a smaller diameter
is desired, then the strips may be woven together, and cut to
shorter lengths before being interwoven, so as to form a smaller,
bite size, substantially spherical pet chews. On the other hand, if
larger spherical pet chews are desired, then longer strips of the
pet chew may be interwoven to form a substantially spherical shaped
pet chew. In some embodiments, the strips are flat shaped. In other
embodiments, the strips are rolled.
[0046] Standard weaving techniques known in the art can be used to
weave the strips of rawhide and/or pizzle together. Generally, the
strips are positioned to be equidistant from each other so as to
form a uniform weaving pattern, but need not necessarily be so. A
particular strip can be alternatively placed over and under the
perpendicular strips to form a uniform weaving pattern. Suitable
weaving patterns include, but are not limited to, a plain weave, a
basket weave, a twill weave, a satin weave, a herringbone weave, a
leno weave, a rep weave, a rib weave, a warp rib view, and velour
weave as known to one skilled in the art, or a combination thereof.
Exemplary weave patterns are disclosed for example, in U.S.
Published Application No. 20040142142, which is incorporated herein
by reference. In some embodiments, a single pet chew product may
include any combination of two or more weave patterns. For example,
the pet chew product may include a basket weave and a twill weave,
a plain weave and a twill weave, a plain weave and a rib weave, a
satin weave and a twill weave, a satin weave and a plain weave, a
velour view and a twill weave, a leno weave and a rep weave, a
herringbone weave and a plain weave, and the like. The weave
pattern can be a sparse weave or a dense weave. The sparse weave
pattern will result in larger openings in the pet chew product
which is desirable for certain applications. The dense weave will
result in smaller openings in the pet chew product which may be
required for certain other applications.
[0047] In certain embodiments, rawhide or pizzle strips of shorter
length can be sewn or seamed together with edible sewing material
to form a pet chew of desired shape and size. Suitable edible
sewing materials are known in the art and include, but are not
limited to thread-like materials obtained from flesh, skin, guts,
tendons, and whiskers of animals, such as cattle, pigs, horses,
sheep, chickens, and the like. In some embodiments, the edible
sewing material is catgut.
[0048] Both the rawhide and the pizzle can be cut in to desired
shape and size. For example, depending on the desired width, the
pizzle can be slit lengthwise to produce either about two to about
four flat strips from each pizzle. Likewise flat, rather than
rolled, rawhide material can be used to make rawhide strips of
desired width and length.
[0049] The rawhide and pizzle strips can for example, have a width
of about 0.01 mm, about 0.1 mm, about 0.5 mm, about 1 mm, about 5
mm, about 10 mm, about 15 mm, about 20 mm, or about 25 mm and all
ranges between any two of these values or less than any one of
these values. The width may be the width of the rawhide and pizzle
strips in the wet state or in the dry state. In some embodiments,
the rawhide and pizzle strips are about 1 mm to about 15 mm wide
when dry. In some embodiments, the rawhide and pizzle strips are
about 2 mm to about 8 mm wide when dry. In some embodiments, the
rawhide and pizzle strips are about 4 mm to about 6 mm wide when
dry.
[0050] The rawhide and pizzle strips can for example, have a length
of about 0.01 cm, about 0.1 cm, about 0.5 cm, about 1 cm, about 5
cm, about 10 cm, about 15 cm, about 20 cm, about 25 cm, about 30
cm, about 40 cm, about 50 cm, about 60 cm, about 80 cm, about 100
cm, or about 150 cm, and all ranges between any two of these values
or less than any one of these values. The length may be the length
of the rawhide and pizzle strips in the wet state or in the dry
state. In some embodiments, the rawhide and pizzle strips are about
10 cm to about 70 cm long. In some embodiments, the rawhide and
pizzle strips are about 20 cm to about 60 cm long. In some
embodiments, the rawhide and pizzle strips are about 30 cm to about
50 cm long, when dry. It is possible to take shorter length rawhide
or pizzle strips and sew them together with catgut to produce
longer strips of the raw material to use for weaving the
substantially spherical pet chew product.
[0051] The diameter of the spherical pet chew can be adjusted to a
suitable value depending on the desired size and use. For example,
the substantially spherical pet chew product can have an diameter
of about 1 cm, about 2 cm, about 3 cm, about 4 cm, about 5 cm,
about 6 cm, about 7 cm, about 8 cm, about 9 cm, about 10 cm, about
11 cm, about 12 cm, about 13 cm, about 14 cm, about 15 cm, and all
ranges between any two of these values or less than any one of
these values. The diameter may be the diameter of the pet chew in
the wet state or in the dry state. In some embodiments, the
substantially spherical pet chew product has an diameter of about 2
cm to about 15 cm. In some embodiments, the substantially spherical
pet chew product has an diameter of about 5 cm to about 12 cm. In
some embodiments, the substantially spherical pet chew product has
an internal diameter of about 7 cm to about 10 cm. The diameter can
be measured as either internal diameter or external diameter. In
one embodiment, the diameter is internal diameter of the pet chew
product. In some embodiments, the diameter is the external diameter
of the pet chew product. The spherical pet chew may be of even or
uneven shape.
[0052] Referring now to the figures, the present technology
provides a pet chew product that is effective, long-lasting and
palatable. One embodiment of the product is seen in FIG. 1. As
represented in FIG. 1, the pet chew product 100 has a spherical
body comprised of strips 101 of rawhide and/or pizzle weaved
together to form of an outer layer 102 and an inner layer 103. In
this embodiment, a plurality of strips of rawhide and/or pizzle are
alternatively positioned over and under each other and woven
spherical pet chew product. These strips are woven together in the
standard weaving process, generally known in the art, or woven from
a series of these components, which are flat or otherwise formed
into a strip or ribbon like consistency, as can be seen in FIG. 1.
Generally, the components such as rawhide and pizzle are cleaned,
dried and pre-cut in to long strands, strips or ribbons that can be
easily woven, into the spherical configuration as shown in the
drawing. Furthermore, the components are glued, seamed or sewn
together using edible materials such as catgut, so as to add to its
strength during the weaving process.
[0053] FIG. 2 shows various embodiments of the pet chew product. As
represented in FIG. 2, the pet chew product can be made entirely of
bleached rawhide (2A), entirely of pizzle (2B), or a combination of
rawhide and pizzle having varying rawhide to pizzle ratios (2C or
2D). Accordingly, the pet chew product can exclusively be made of
either rawhide or pizzle, can have alternate strips of rawhide or
pizzle, can have more rawhide strips than pizzle strips or can have
more pizzle strips than rawhide strips. For example, about 9 strips
of bleached rawhide or pizzle alone can be woven to obtain the pet
chew 2A or 2B, about 5 strips each of bleached rawhide and pizzle
can be woven together to obtain the pet chew 2C; and about 6 strips
each of bleached rawhide and about 3 strips of pizzle can be woven
together to obtain the pet chew 2D.
[0054] FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of the pet chew product
comprising a substantially spherical pet chew product 300 made from
bleached rawhide strips 301 and enclosing a pizzle treat 302. The
ends of the pizzle strips are sewn together using catgut 303.
[0055] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the pet chew product
comprising a substantially spherical pet chew product 400 made from
bleached rawhide strips or pizzle strips 401 woven in a simple
weave pattern. The figure depicts a chew product having a sparse
weave with large openings 402.
[0056] FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the pet chew product
comprising a substantially spherical pet chew product 500 made from
bleached rawhide strips 501 and enclosing a treat 502.
[0057] FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the pet chew product
comprising a substantially football shaped pet chew product 600
made from bleached rawhide and/or pizzle strips 601.
[0058] FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of the pet chew product
comprising a pet chew product 700 having an uneven surface made
from bleached rawhide strips and/or pizzle strips 701 woven in a
dense weave pattern and having small openings 702.
[0059] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the pet
chew product. The figure represents an embodiment wherein the
strips of the pet chew product are woven in a plain weave pattern
using broad strips of rawhide and/or pizzle.
[0060] FIG. 9 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 8, wherein
the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical to the
front view.
[0061] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
pet chew product. The figure represents an embodiment wherein the
strips of the pet chew product are woven in a plain weave pattern
using narrow strips of rawhide and/or pizzle.
[0062] FIG. 11 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 10,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
[0063] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of
the pet chew product. The figure represents an embodiment wherein
the strips of the pet chew product are woven in a basket weave
pattern.
[0064] FIG. 13 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 12,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
[0065] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of
the pet chew product. The figure represents an embodiment wherein
the strips of the pet chew product are woven in a satin weave
pattern.
[0066] FIG. 15 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 14,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
[0067] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
pet chew product. The figure represents an embodiment wherein the
strips of the pet chew product are woven in a twill weave
pattern.
[0068] FIG. 17 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 16,
wherein the rear, left, right, top and bottom views are identical
to the front view.
[0069] Variations or modifications to the subject matter of this
invention may occur to those skilled in the art upon review of the
disclosure as provided herein. Such variations, if within the
spirit of this development, are intended to be encompassed within
the scope of the claims as set forth herein. For example, the
strands of rawhide and penis may not only come from the bull,
steer, cow or other bovine, but could also be obtained from other
animals, such as the deer, elk, or even other animals that may
become deceased, as at a zoo, game park, or even animals that are
legally harvested in the wild.
[0070] In addition to the rawhide and or pizzle strips, the pet
chew products may further include additives, including food grade
or generally recognized as safe ("GRAS") by the United States Food
and Drug Administration, including, but not limited to,
preservatives, nutrients, humectants, odor enhancers, acids (e.g.,
citric acid, malic acid, fumaric acid), antioxidants (e.g.,
ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, tocopherols), flavorings,
texturizers, vitamins, minerals, fibers, insoluble fibers, gums
(e.g., xanthan), starches, cellulose, buffers, colorants,
emulsifiers (e.g., lecithin, polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene
sorbitan monooleate), sorbitol, alcohols, spices, syrups, milk,
milk powder, dispersants, stabilizers, solubilizing agents,
palatability enhancers (8P enhancers for dogs and 9P or 9M for cats
sold by SPF Diana (France)), and the like, or mixtures thereof.
These additives, if present, can be incorporated in the pet chew
product at a concentration in the range of about 0.001 wt %, about
0.01 wt %, about 0.02 wt %, about 0.05 wt %, about 0.1 wt %, about
0.5 wt %, about 1.0 wt %, about 2 wt %, about 5 wt %, about 10.0 wt
%, about 15.0 wt %, about 20.0 wt %, and ranges between any two of
these values or less than any one of these values.
[0071] These additives may be added during the preparation and
processing of the strips used to produce the pet chew products or
during the preparation of the final pet chew.
[0072] The preservatives utilized in the present methods include
any suitable preservatives known in the art, including food grade
preservatives. The preservatives may function as mold inhibitors or
antioxidants. Suitable preservatives include, but are not limited
to, sodium acid pyrophosphate, potassium pyrophosphate, sodium
benzoate, calcium benzoate, potassium benzoate, potassium sorbate,
sodium sorbate, calcium sorbate, sodium acetate, calcium acetate,
sodium diacetate, calcium diacetate, sodium propionate, calcium
propionate, potassium propionate, niacin, citric acid, sorbic acid,
ascorbic acid, propionic acid, paraaminobenzoic acid esters
(parabens) and the like or mixtures thereof. Exemplary antioxidants
include butylated hydroxyanisol (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene
(BHT), and tertiary butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ), tocopherols,
rosemary extract, propyl gallate and other food grade antioxidants.
These preservatives may be used to preserve the cleaned raw
material or strips of raw material prior to forming the pet chew
product.
[0073] In some embodiments, the pet chew product may include a
nutrient such as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, phytonutrients,
animal fats, lecithin and the like or mixtures thereof
[0074] In some embodiments, the pet chew product may include a
suitable humectant known in the art, including, but are not limited
to, glycerin, corn syrup, betaine, propylene glycol, sugar, high
fructose corn syrup, honey, glycerol, sorbitol, xylitol, maltitol,
whey, propylene glycol, dextrose, fructose, aloe vera, and the
like, and mixtures thereof
[0075] In another embodiment, a shelf-stable pet chew product is
provided, wherein the product retains about 80% to about 90% of its
original dimension over a 24 month period is provided. In yet
another embodiment, a shelf-stable pet chew product incorporating
vitamins and nutrients is provided. In certain embodiments, a
shelf-stable pet chew product incorporating a therapeutic agent is
provided. In some embodiments, a shelf-stable pet chew product
incorporating an edible treat is provided.
[0076] In certain embodiments, the pet chew product provides a long
lasting, slow release vehicle for therapeutic agents. In some
embodiments, the rawhide or pizzle strips can be being impregnated
with a therapeutic agent so as to dispose the agent upon being
chewed by the pet. As the pet gnaws or chews on the chew product,
the therapeutic agent is slowly released and consumed by the pet.
Suitable therapeutic agents which can be incorporated in to the pet
chew product are known in the art and include, but are not limited
to antimicrobial agents, analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents,
local anesthetic agents, biofilm inhibiting agents, dentinal
desensitizing agents, odor masking agents and the like. In some
embodiments, the therapeutic agent is a dental agent. In other
embodiments, the therapeutic agent is an antimicrobial agent.
[0077] Some of the pet chew toys are developed to provide
additional functions such a dental care or toys for entertainment
and exercise. Dental care chews are designed to provide a surface
upon which the pet's teeth may be scraped so as to reduce tartar
which results from the thickening and hardening of the plaque. In
some embodiments, the pet chew product functions as a dental
hygiene product. In some embodiments, the strips of the pet chew
product function as a dental floss to reduce/prevent the build-up
of plaque, calculus or tartar in the mouth of the pet.
[0078] In one embodiment, a method of preventing and/or reducing
breath odor and plaque and tartar buildup in a pet is provided, the
method comprising providing the pet with a palatable, long-lasting
pet chew product which includes strips of material obtained from a
bovine or from other animals, the strips being interwoven to form a
substantially spherical pet chew with a hollow center.
[0079] In some embodiments, the woven pet chew product provides
improved reduction or removal of tartar, plaque or calculus buildup
compared to other pet chew products know in the art. Both the
composition and the design of the pet chew product are such that
they aid in cleaning of teeth. For example, rawhide and pizzle both
have mild abrasive action on the tartar or plaque. Moreover, the
surface and edges of the woven strips and the hollow center makes
it possible to provide scrubbing or scraping action for the pet's
teeth whenever the pet chews on the product. This aids in reducing
the build-up of tartar, plaque or calculus on the surface of the
teeth, thereby improving the dental hygiene of the pet. The woven
pet chew product thus provides dental hygiene functionality which
other pet chew products know in the art, such as for example a
solid ball-like pet chew product would not provide.
[0080] Play chew toys are designed to encourage pets to play and
exercise. Some pet chew products function as a holder for treats
and provide additional incentive to the pet to play and
exercise.
[0081] The pet chew product can be designed to function as a pet
treat holder. Thus, in certain embodiments, the hollow center of
the pet chew product incorporates an additional edible or chewable
treat or snack. For example, the edible treat may be positioned
inside the spherical pet chew product and is released on the pet
chew product being chewed open by the pet. Suitable edible treats
are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, biscuits,
rawhide chips, donuts, sticks, strips, twists, small and large
bones, knotted bones, kibbles, rawhide products, and other dog and
cat snacks, and the like. In some embodiments, a pet toy can be
incorporated in to the cavity of the spherical pet chew product
such that the toy is released on the pet chew product being chewed
open by the pet.
[0082] In one embodiment, a method of forming a palatable,
long-lasting pet chew product is provided, wherein the method
includes sewing together strips of rawhide, animal pizzle or both
with catgut to form an outline; interweaving additional strips of
rawhide, animal penis or both under and on top of the strips
forming an outline to form a substantially spherical pet chew
product of desired circumference; and drying the pet chew product
to the desired moisture content.
[0083] In some embodiments, the primary raw material is rawhide
which has been lightly bleached, split into thin sheets and cut
into long strips and/or animal penis or pizzle which has been
cleaned and cut in to long strips.
[0084] In the production of the chew product, the rawhide strips
and pizzle strips precut to the desired length and having somewhat
matching diameter are obtained. A spherical substrate, such as
e.g., a balloon, ball or bag, is inflated to desired dimensions and
sealed. The spherical mold or substrate can include other heat
resistance flexible materials that may or may not stretch during
filling and inflation. The balloon is shaped to the desired shape
by placing air or other gas or liquid within. The inflated balloon,
ball or bag is then used as a mold upon which the desired number of
strips is then placed side-by-side and spread around the
circumference of the spherical substrate in an overlapping manner
and tied together utilizing an edible catgut material. Additional
strips are then weaved under and over the top of the initial strips
and are sewn together by edible catgut fraction.
[0085] Alternatively, a balloon or other spherical object could be
filled with water to achieve the desired dimensions, frozen and the
resulting frozen ice ball used as a substrate. This technique can
also be used to prepare a pet chew product of other shapes.
[0086] In some embodiments, the finished pet chew product is dried
using suitable drying methods known in the art, e.g., air-drying,
heat drying, vacuum drying, freeze-drying, spray-drying or
combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the drying includes heat
drying the product. In some embodiments, the finished product is
placed in a dryer or an oven and the product is dried for a
suitable period of time at a suitable temperature. For example, the
finished product can be dried for about 1 min to about 60 min,
about 1 h to about 5 h, about 5 h to about 8 h, about 8 h to about
15 h, about 15 h to about 25 h, about 25 h to about 40 h, and
ranges between and including any two of these values. In some
embodiments, the finished product is dried for about 10 h to about
20 h. In some embodiments, the finished product is dried for about
15 h.
[0087] In some embodiments, the finished product is heated to a
suitable temperature, e.g., at about 300.degree. C. or below, about
200.degree. C. or below, about 100.degree. C. or below, at about
80.degree. C. or below, at about 50.degree. C. or below, at about
45.degree. C. or below, at about 40.degree. C. or below, at about
35.degree. C. or below, at about 30.degree. C. or below, at about
25.degree. C. or below, or at about 20.degree. C. or below, and
ranges between and including any two of these values. In some
embodiments, the finished product is heated to about 45.degree. C.
or below. In one embodiment, the finished product is dried for
about 15 h at about 45.degree. C.
[0088] The initial drying of the chew product can be conducted at
lower temperatures so as to avoid sudden shrinkage of the product.
Before or after the finished product is dried, the inflated
substrate balloon, ball or bag is popped and the broken substrate
material is recovered by removing it from existing holes or
openings in the ball.
[0089] After initial drying and removal of the substrate material,
the product may be subjected to additional drying by placing it in
an oven or a dryer at a suitable temperature for an additional
period of time. In some embodiments, the pet chew product may be
dried for an additional period of over 1 hour at a temperature of
above 30.degree. C. In some embodiments, the dried pet chew product
may be sterilized in a sterilization oven for over 2 h at a
temperature of above 40.degree. C. In some embodiments, the pet
chew product may be dried for an additional period of about 4 h at
about 45.degree. C.
[0090] The dried or dehydrated product can then be sterilized by
methods known in the art. For example, the dried product may be
placed in sterilization oven for a suitable period of time at a
suitable temperature. Suitable sterilization times and temperature
are as described for the drying step. In some embodiments, the
dried pet chew product may be sterilized in a sterilization oven
for over 4 h at a temperature of above 80.degree. C. In some
embodiments, the dried pet chew product may be sterilized in a
sterilization oven for over 7 h at a temperature of above
90.degree. C. In some embodiments, the dried pet chew product may
be sterilized in a sterilization oven for about 10 h at about
100.degree. C.
[0091] In one embodiment, a method of forming a pet chew product
from strips of material obtained from a bovine animal, comprising:
fabricating strips of rawhide and/or animal pizzle; interweaving
the strips over a spherical substrate in the length and number
required to obtain a substantially spherical pet chew product;
dehydrating the pet chew product in a dryer about 15 h at about
45.degree. C.; removing the substantially spherical substrate;
drying the pet chew product again for about 4 h at about 45.degree.
C.; and sterilizing the pet chew product in a sterilizing oven for
about 10 h at about 100.degree. C.
[0092] The pet chew product can be dried under suitable conditions
so as to obtain specific moisture content in the end product. In
some embodiments, the pet chew product is dehydrated to a
shelf-stable moisture level. For example, the product may be
dehydrated to moisture content of about 5% or below, about 10% or
below, about 15% or below, about 20% or below, about 25% or below,
about 30% or below, or about 35% or below, and ranges between and
including any two of these values. In some embodiments, the pet
chew product is dehydrated to a moisture content of below 15%. In
some embodiments, the pet chew product is dehydrated to a moisture
content of below 12%. In some embodiments, the pet chew product is
dehydrated to a moisture content of below 10%.
[0093] In some embodiments, the method further includes packaging
the pet chew product using suitable packaging methods known in the
art using suitable packaging materials. As used herein, the term
"packaging material" means any component of packaging in which pet
chew product is contained. Packaging materials include, for
example, thermoplastic packaging films and foils, and wrapping or
bags formed therefrom; coated or uncoated paper webs and sheets as
well as bags or cardboard boxes; thermoformed punnets; wax or film
coatings applied directly to the product or to a container;
multilayer packaging constructions; printed coatings, embossed
indicia, labels placed on or in packaging or on product, adhesives
used to close or seal packaging or adhere labels and the like
thereto; ink printed directly on product, directly on packaging, or
on a label that is then adhered to packaging. In some embodiments,
the packaging includes aseptic packaging. In some embodiments, the
product is individually packed in plastic bags and then
collectively packed in bulk boxes. The packaged product can be
stored or transported for commercial distribution and sale.
[0094] The pet chew product is all natural, has excellent chew time
and palatability. The uneven surface of the ball shaped product
provides a chew which can be rolled, held between the teeth or
chewed effectively. The pet chew product can be a source of
nutrients, such as proteins and fiber to the pets, is non-allergic
and retain their freshness, texture and taste over a long period of
time. The pet chew product is designed to be fun and also has
functional benefits as described above. The pet chew product can be
marketed in the dry form, and does not require any expensive
storage or transport conditions such as extensive chilling. The pet
chew product is readily available for consumption and entertainment
of pets such as dogs.
[0095] The pet chew product of the invention has a significantly
longer chew time than comparable animal treats having different
constitution. Although not bound by theory, it is hypothesized that
the pet or the animal spends a significant amount of time consuming
the various strips that form the product. As a result, the chew
product keeps the pet occupied for a long time because it takes an
extended period for the pet to completely consume the chew. In some
embodiments, the present pet chew product has a chew time that is
about 1.5 times, about 2 times, about 3 times, about 5 times, about
7 times or about 10 times more than the comparable pet chew
products known in the art, such as e.g., a solid pet chew, a molded
pet chew, a extruded pet chew or a nylabone and the like.
[0096] In one embodiment, a shelf-stable pet chew product obtained
using the methods described herein is provided. A product has shelf
stability when it is safe for consumption and maintains an
acceptable quality when stored at room temperature. Some of the
factors which contribute to the deterioration of foods include
microbial, enzymatic, chemical and physical factors. The pet chew
product of the present invention is stable against all these
factors. In some embodiments, the pet chew product is more stable
than other pet chew products known in the art, for example, a solid
pet chew product or an unwoven pet chew product.
[0097] The shelf-stable product can be shelf-stable with
developmentally appropriate textures, color, taste and nutrition
profiles. Accordingly, the shelf stability can be measured as a
function of loss of moisture over a period of time, decay or
degradation over a period of time, loss of nutritional value over a
period of time, loss of flavor over a period of time, color change
over a period of time and so on and so forth. Degradation can be
assessed by a variety of means, including appearance (e.g., color,
texture), moisture content, and the like. Thus, in some
embodiments, product prepared according to inventive process
undergo less than 20%, 15%, 10%, 7%, 5%, 3%, 2%, or 1% degradation
during the long storage periods identified above.
[0098] In some embodiments, the pet chew product maintains its
integrity and natural characteristics over a long period of time
and is resistant to degradation and decay. In one embodiment, the
pet chew product retains about 80%, about 90% or about 100% of the
initial dimensions over a period of about 24-36 months. In some
embodiments, the pet chew product retains the dimensionally stable
indefinitely. In some embodiments, the pet chew product remains
resistant to degradation and decay for over 12 months. In some
embodiments, the pet chew product remains resistant to degradation
and decay for over 24 months. In some embodiments, the pet chew
product remains resistant to degradation and decay for over 36
months. In some embodiments, the pet chew product remains resistant
to degradation and decay for over 60 months.
[0099] The present invention, thus generally described, will be
understood more readily by reference to the following examples,
which are provided by way of illustration and are not intended to
be limiting of the present invention. The examples are intended to
illustrate the various embodiments of the present technology.
EXAMPLES
[0100] The following examples are set forth as illustrative of this
invention:
Example 1
[0101] Three 30 cm long and 10 mm wide pieces of bleached rawhide
split 5 mm thick were cut from the underside part of a cattle hide.
The pieces weighed about 15 g each in the wet state. A 100 cm long
bull penis was cleaned by removing the foreskin and outer grizzle
material and cut in to about 30 cm long and about 10 mm wide
strips. The penis strips had a weight of 30 g each. Three strips of
bleached rawhide were then placed flat side by side on one side of
a balloon having a diameter of about 10 cm and the ends of each
strips were sewed together at the top with catgut fraction. Six
strips of bull penis were then weaved together using a typical
basket or a rug weaving technique until the entire penis fraction
and/or rawhide fraction had been woven to form a substantially
spherical pet chew. The ends of the six strips were again sewed
together with catgut fraction.
[0102] The wet finished product was about 10 cm in diameter and
weighed 225 g. It was placed in a in a hot air dryer dehydrator. It
was dried for 15h at 45.degree. C. The product was removed from the
oven and the balloon was popped and removed from in between the
openings of the pet chew product. Drying was continued at
45.degree. C. for an additional 4 h. The dried product was
sterilized in a sterilizing oven for 10 h at 100.degree. C. The
final product has a diameter of about 10 cm, weight of about 32 g
and a moisture level of 10%.
[0103] A large quantity of pet chew products was made with the
above technique and feeding studies were conducted to determine the
acceptability of the weave and more importantly the resulting
chew-time of the treat. The resultant pet chew product was found to
have a chew time exceeding 2 h even on relatively large dogs and
the palatability was readily acceptable to all of the animals
tested.
Example 2
[0104] Ten 20 cm long and 5 mm wide pieces of bleached rawhide
split 5 mm thick were cut from the underside part of a cattle hide.
Four strips of bleached rawhide were then placed flat side by side
on one side of a balloon having a diameter of about 8 cm and the
ends of each strips were sewed together at the top with catgut
fraction. Six strips of bleached rawhide strips were then weaved
together using a typical twill weaving technique until the entire
penis fraction and/or rawhide fraction had been woven to form a
substantially spherical pet chew. The ends of the six strips were
again sewed together with catgut fraction.
[0105] The wet finished product was about 8 cm in diameter. It was
placed in a in a hot air dryer dehydrator. It was dried for 12 h at
45.degree. C. The product was removed from the oven and the balloon
was popped and removed from in between the openings of the pet chew
product. Drying was continued at 45.degree. C. for an additional 4
h. The dried product was sterilized in a sterilizing oven for 10 h
at 100.degree. C. The final product has a diameter of about 8 cm,
and a moisture level of 10%.
Example 3
[0106] The procedure of example 2 can be repeated using pizzle
strips instead of rawhide strips, and a football shape instead of a
sphere. The product can be dried to a moisture level of about
10%.
Example 4
[0107] The procedure of example 1 can be repeated using six rawhide
strips and three pizzle strips. The product can be dried to a
moisture level of about 10%.
Example 5
[0108] The procedure of example 2 can be repeated using elk hide
strips instead of cattle hide. The product can be dried to a
moisture level of about 10%.
[0109] It is to be understood that while the invention has been
described in conjunction with the above embodiments, that the
foregoing description and examples are intended to illustrate and
not limit the scope of the invention. Other aspects, advantages and
modifications within the scope of the invention will be apparent to
those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.
* * * * *