WO1997037529A1

WO1997037529A1 - Backpack-style animal carrier and restraint

Info

Publication number: WO1997037529A1
Application number: PCT/US1996/004700
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sandy Williams; Joseph L. Williams
Original assignee: Sandy Williams; Williams Joseph L
Priority date: 1996-04-05
Filing date: 1996-04-05
Publication date: 1997-10-16
Also published as: AU5535796A

Abstract

A device (20) for restraining an animal for transport, which device (20) can be worn by a user or secured in an automobile. The device (20) includes an animal enclosure (26) secured to a frame (24). The frame (24) includes first and second legs (28, 30), the second leg (30) rotatable with respect to the first (28). The enclosure (26) includes a lower animal support surface (72), an upstanding wall (58), and an open top end (62). A hood (116) is connected to the frame (24) and can be moved over the open top surface (62) of the enclosure (26). Shoulder straps (100a, 100b) and a waist strap (112) are located on the device (20) allowing a user to wear the entire device (20) on his or her body.

Description

BACKPACK-STYLE ANIMAL CARRIER AND RESTRAINT

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to devices for use in restraining and transporting an animal. In particular, the present invention relates to a backpack device in which an animal can be restrained, which can be worn by a user or secured to the seat of an automobile for transport. Background of the Invention

It has become increasingly popular for owners of pets to take their pets on outdoor outings and activities. For instance, pets often accompany their owners on hikes or walks, and sometimes even when their owner rides a bicycle. Further, pets often ride in the car when their owner runs an errand or takes a trip.

Most pets are not adapted for traveling with their owners on long hikes or over rough terrain. Further, most animals cannot keep up when their owners are riding a bicycle. Lastly, while many pets are well trained, many do not behave satisfactorily in an automobile and must be restrained in some fashion to avoid damage to the automobile or distraction of the driver.

Until the present time, there has been no satisfactory method for transporting animals when engaging in these and similar activities. First, from the standpoint of the user, no satisfactory means exists for carrying an animal while engaging in activities such as walking, hiking or cycling. Second, no means exists for securely retaining an animal in a vehicle. Thirdly, no means exists for carrying and restraining an animal that is comfortable and enjoyable for the animal.

Summary of the Invention A device for use in restraining and transporting an animal is provided. In general, the device of the present invention is a backpack-style device comprises a frame having an animal engaging enclosure secured thereto.

The frame includes first and second "U"-shaped rigid metal frame legs. The frame legs are joined at a connector or guide, with the first leg moveable with respect to the second leg. Each frame leg has a horizontal section for supporting the device on the ground. The frame further includes a "C" or "U"-shaped enclosure support.

The enclosure is a sack-like structure including a bottom, upwardly extending wall, and an open top end. Preferably, the enclosure comprises a durable fabric material. The top of the enclosure is secured in an open position to the "C"-shaped support, and two straps connect the enclosure to the second frame leg.

An animal is supported in the enclosure by a support surface. The support surface may comprise the bottom of the enclosure, or a portion of the side wall when the base is pulled upwardly towards the top surface with adjustment straps. The adjustment straps may be used by a user to vary the distance between the animal support surface and the top surface of the enclosure. Animal restraint means are connected to an inside surface of the enclosure near the top surface. The restraint means preferably comprise four loops located equidistantly about the inside of the enclosure. The loops support a collar or other restraint device located around the animal's neck and center and stabilize the animal within the enclosure.

A hood is connected to the frame for selective location over the open top end of the enclosure. The hood comprises a three-sided material cover extending over two support arches. The arches are rotatably connected to the guides of the frame, so that the hood may be moved from a position in which it covers the top end of the enclosure to a position in which it is folded back and the top end of the enclosure is exposed. The hood includes a mesh material cover which may be selectively located over a front, fourth-side opening of the hood by a user.

User support means are connected to the frame and enclosure. In particular, shoulder straps are connected to the enclosure near the top surface and extend downwardly towards the first ends of the frame halves. The straps include a user engaging portion and an adjustment strap. Further, a waist support and waist strap are connected to the frame at the first ends of the frame members.

In use, a user extends the first leg of the frame outwardly from the second leg. In that position, the frame is supported on a stable surface. A user then lowers an animal into the enclosure, rear feet first. If the animal is wearing a collar, the user unfastens the collar from the animal, passes it through the loops, and then secures it about the animal's neck. The user then adjusts the distance between the support surface and the top surface of the enclosure with the adjustment means so the animal's head protrudes from the top of the enclosure for maximum animal comfort and enjoyment.

If the animal needs to be isolated or protected, such as from the weather or to protect against the animal biting another, the user may raise the hood over the animal's head and the open top end of the enclosure. for additional protection, the mesh material cover may be lowered over the otherwise open fourth side of the hood.

A user may wear the device by locating his or her arms through the shoulder straps and lifting the device onto their body. The user may then connect and adjust the waist strap about their waist to secure the lower portion of the device to their body. The first leg is retracted towards the second, reducing the space occupied by the frame.

A user may also locate the device securely in the seat of an automobile. The user simply places the device on the seat of the automobile, with the first leg placed against the seatback of the seat and the second leg extended to stabilize the device. The user then runs a seat belt, including the shoulder harness if present, across the frame and buckles it, securing the device in the seat. In accordance with the present invention, when a user secures an animal within the enclosure, the restraint means prevents the animal from escaping the enclosure.

Further, the restraint means centrally locates the animal in the enclosure, allowing free movement of air about the animal's body. The central location also prevents the animal from shifting from one side of the device to the other, which might result in the device tipping over or the balance of the wearer shifting suddenly. The means for adjusting allows the user to adjust the device such that the animal's head always extends above the top surface of the enclosure, no matter what size of animal is placed therein. This ensures that the animal receives sufficient air, and allows the animal to see its surroundings and enjoy the trip.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description of the drawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures. Description of the Drawings

FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of the carrier and restraint device of the present invention;

FIGURE 2 is a rear view of the device of Figure 1;

FIGURE 3 is a front view of the device of Figure 1; FIGURE 4 is a top view of the device of Figure 1 ;

FIGURE 5 is a side view of the device of Figure 1;

FIGURE 6 is a side view of the device of Figure 1 illustrated in a collapsed position; and FIGURE 7 is a view illustrating a frame of the device of Figure 1 .

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment

Figure 1 illustrates the backpack-style carrier and restraint device 20 of the present invention. In general, the device 20 comprises support means, preferably in the form of a frame 24, and an animal enclosure 26.

The support means of the device 20 support the enclosure 26 and any animal therein. Preferably, the support means comprises a frame 24. The frame 24 is useful in supporting the enclosure 26 and an animal therein when the device 20 is located on the ground or seat of a car, and allows a user to wear the device 20 on his or her body. As illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 5, the frame 24 comprises first and second legs or frame members 28, 30.

The first leg 28 is preferably a "U"-shaped member having a first strut 32, a second strut 34, and a middle connecting portion 36. The first leg 32 has free ends opposite the ends of struts joined by the middle portion

36.

The second leg 30 is also preferably "U"-shaped, having a first strut 40, second strut 42, and middle connection portion 44. The second leg 30 has free ends opposite the ends of the struts joined by the middle portion 44.

The struts 32,34 of the first leg 28 are approximately 15-18 inches long, each having a slight bend therein about half way along its length. The middle connecting portion 36 of the first leg 28 is about 12-13 inches long, thus separating the struts 32,34 by the same distance. Preferably, as best seen in Figure 4, the middle connecting portion 36 is slightly bowed in a direction outward from the legs.

The struts 40,42 of the second leg 30 are approximately 16-20 inches long, each having a slight bend therein about half way along its length. The middle connecting portion 44 is about 13-14 inches long, separating the struts 40,42 by the same distance. As best seen in Figure 5, the middle connecting portion 44 is slightly bowed as well.

As illustrated, the free ends of the first leg 28 are joined to the free ends of the second leg 30. Preferably, the free ends are joined together at a pair of guides 46,48. The free ends of the first leg 28 are rotatably connected to the guides 46,48, and thus the second leg 30, via pins. Because the free ends of the first leg 28 are spaced apart by a distance slightly greater than the free ends of the second leg 30, the struts 32,34 of the first leg 28 are located outside of those of the second leg.

The guides 46,48 preferably comprise circular or disk-shaped members which are securely connected to the free ends of the first and second legs 28,30. Each guide 46,48 has an hour-glass shaped slot 50,52 on the surface which faces outwardly (towards the struts 32,34 of the first leg 28) . The slot 50,52 comprises a recessed area in the guide 46,48 for acceptance of the strut 32,34 of the first leg 28. The slot 50,52 in each guide 46,48 (Figures 1 and 5) is designed to control the degree of rotation of the first leg 28 with respect to the second leg 30. In particular, the slot 50,52 includes surfaces for preventing overrotation of the first leg 28 outwardly from the second leg 30, as illustrated in Figure 1.

Preferably, the first leg 28 is designed to rotate such that the middle connecting portion 38 thereof is about 8-10 inches from the middle connection portion 44 of the second leg 30. The guide 46,48 also acts to prevent inward rotation of the first leg 28 beyond a position in which it extends generally along the second leg 30, as illustrated in Figure 6.

Preferably, the first and second legs 28,30 comprise a rod-shaped material, and preferably a tubular material. It is preferred that these frame members comprise aluminum tubing, as this material is resistant to corrosion, and is lightweight. It is possible for the frame 24 to comprise other materials, such as plastic. When the tubing is formed from aluminum, it is approximately .5-.75 inches, and most preferably about 5/8 inches in diameter, and having a wall thickness of approximately .1-.25 inches has been found sufficiently strong to support animals weighing about 20 pounds. Heavier tubing, including solid tubing, may be used if greater strength is required. When formed from tubing, the first and second legs 28,30 preferably comprise contiguous elements of tubing bent into the desired shape. The enclosure 26, in which a user of the device 20 locates an animal, is preferably somewhat tubular in shape, having a closed bottom 54, an upwardly extending wall 58, and a top end 62. The wall 58 includes a lower end connected to the bottom 54 , and a top edge opposite thereto, the top edge defining the open top surface 62 of the enclosure.

The enclosure 26 is preferably made of a breathable, washable, and durable cloth material. In particular, it is preferred that the enclosure 26 be made of canvas or another indoor/outdoor material. The enclosure 26 should comprise a material which is strong enough that when connected to the frame 24, will support therein an animal of around 20 pounds or so. Of course, if the enclosure 26 is to be used to support animals having greater or lesser weights, the material from which the enclosure 26 is constructed can be varied.

When constructed of material such as that described above, the enclosure 26 may be formed by connecting pieces comprising, in essence, a circular wall and a base. The exact dimensions of each piece depend primarily upon the size and shape of the frame. When the frame 24 is as described above, the enclosure 26 has a front to back distance of about 3-6 inches, and a side-to-side width of about 9-12 inches (which is the same as the distance between the first and second frame halves 28,30 set forth above less the space occupied by the material comprising the enclosure) , and a depth from top surface 62 to bottom 54 of about 12-20, and most preferably about 15 inches. The exact size of the enclosure 26 may be varied depending upon the size of animal which a user intends to restrain, and the size of the frame 24.

As illustrated in Figure 7, In order to keep the top end 62 of the enclosure 26 open, the material forming the enclosure is preferably connected to a "C"-shaped frame member 64 extending outwardly from guides 46,48 in the direction of the first leg 28. Preferably, first and second ends of the member are connected to portions of the guides 46,48 which allow the member to rotate with respect to the remainder of the frame 24, whereby the member may be rotated from a first position in which it extends generally horizontally outwardly to support the enclosure 26 in an open position (Figure 1) to a collapsed position for storage of the device 20 (Figure 6) . The member 64 is preferably constructed from the same light-weight, strong tubing as the other frame elements.

The enclosure 26 is also preferably attached to the frame 24 with a strap 68. The strap 68 extends across a portion of the enclosure 26 approximately 3 inches below the top end of the enclosure. The strap 68 has two ends which are connected to the struts 40,42 of the second leg 30, respectively, as well as shoulder straps described below.

As illustrated in Figure 5, the enclosure 26 forms a cavity 70 into which a user may place an animal. The cavity 70 is defined by a lower animal support surface 72 and the upwardly extending wall 58. The lower animal support surface 72 normally comprises the bottom 54 of the enclosure. In the preferred form of the present invention, however, the position of the bottom 54 may be adjusted with respect to the remainder of the enclosure 26, causing the support surface 72 to comprise a surface other than the bottom 54. In particular, means for adjusting 74 the position of the lower support surface 72 with respect to the top surface 62 of the enclosure are provided. These means 74 preferably comprises at least one, and preferably two, adjustable straps 76a,b connected to the enclosure near at the top 62 and bottom 54 thereof. The straps 76a,b preferably comprise a top section connected to the wall 58 and having a first buckle member thereon, and a second section connected to the bottom 54 and having a second buckle member. At least one of the buckle members preferably includes an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the length of the strap. The buckle members can be locked and unlocked to one another. Other means known to those skilled in the art are contemplated for adjusting the position of the support surface 72. In particular, Velcro attachment means, snaps or other connectors could be used to adjust the position of a strap or the bottom 54 of the enclosure directly.

The adjustment means 74 allow the user of the device 20 to cause the bottom 54 of the enclosure 26 to be located along the wall 58 thereof. Figures 1-6 illustrate the device 20 in a condition where the bottom 54 is directly below the top surface 62 of the enclosure 26, wherein the bottom 54 and animal support surface 72 are one and the same. Means for restraining 86 (see Figure 4) an animal are preferably located in the enclosure 26. The means 86 preferably comprises four loops 88a-d located equidistantly about the inside surface of the enclosure 26 near the top surface 62.

The loops 88a-d preferably comprise a strong, durable material having a first end connected to an inside surface of the enclosure 26, and a second end having a snap thereon for connection to a matching snap half located near the first end of the loop 88. Each loop 88a-d preferably extends inwardly toward the center of the cavity 70 by the same distance of about 3-5 inches when the inner circumference of the enclosure 26 is about 25-35 inches. In a second preferred embodiment, the loops 88a- d do not include a snap, and both ends of the strap are securely connected to the enclosure.

Each loop 88a-d is preferably connected to the enclosure about 1-4 inches down from the top surface 62. This allows for the distance between the animal's neck and head, such that when the animal is properly positioned with its head protruding slightly from the enclosure 26, the animal restraint means 86 are located at the animal's neck.

The loops 88a-d are designed to restrain a collar 98 or similar strap located about the animal's neck. The strap 98 may be included with the device 20, or may comprise the animal's own collar.

Most importantly, as illustrated in Figures 1-3 and 5-6, in order to further protect and/or isolate an animal located in the device 20 from exposure, a hood 116 is selectively connectable to the device 20. The hood 116 preferably comprises a hood frame and cover 120. The hood frame includes two support arches 140,142. Each arch 140,142 has first and second ends which are rotatably connected to the guides 46,48, as illustrated in Figure 7. As illustrated in Figures 1 and 4, the arches 140,142 are movable from a retracted position in which they extend along the top open end 62 of the enclosure, whereby the hood 116 does not obscure the top end 62 of the enclosure 26, to a second position in which they support the cover 120 over the open top end 62 of the enclosure.

Each arch 140,142 preferably comprises a segment of bent wire or similar rigid material located in or connected to the cover 120. The cover 120 is a segment of material which preferably includes reinforced material areas 66,122,124 where the hood is connected to the arches 140,142 and where the hood otherwise meets the enclosure. The cover 120 is sized so that it encloses the space from the top surface 62 of the enclosure 26 upwardly to a front opening 132. The cover 120 is preferably constructed from durable, lightweight, opaque, weather-resistant material.

The front opening 132 may be selectively closed with a cover or screen 126. Preferably, the opening cover 126 comprises a segment of mesh or screen material connected to the hood 116. The mesh is an open-weave construction, whereby the animal can see through the cover 126 and easily breathe, and yet can not poke its head, teeth or paws therethrough. In order to secure the cover 126 in a closed position over the opening 132, mating hook and loop fastener elements are preferably located on the cover and hood. As illustrated, a user can move the cover 126 from a position over the opening 132 (Figure 1) to a position in which it is rolled up and positioned on top of the hood 116 leaving the opening open (Figure 3) .

In order to allow the device 20 to worn by a user, means for supporting the device 20 are provided. The means preferably comprises shoulder straps I00a,b and a waist strap 112. Preferably, there are two shoulder straps 100a,b, each having ends which are connected to the frame 24 and enclosure via the strap 66. The straps 100a,b are made of a durable and strong material, and preferably include padding located on or in the material which comprises the straps 100a,b to render the device 20 more comfortable to a wearer.

The straps 100a,b are preferably about 12-15 inches long, and about 3-5 inches wide at a top end and about 2-4 inches wide at a second end (near the waist strap) . In that the straps 100a,b fit users of various sizes, and to provide adjustment of the straps about the body of a user, a second adjustment strap 106a,b preferably connects the second end of each of the straps 100a,b to the frame 24. The adjustment straps 106a,b preferably comprise thin, elongate members having at least one length adjustment mechanism. The length adjustment mechanism is known in the art as a plastic or metal piece through which one end of the strap runs and which holds the strap in a fixed position with friction or a slidable lock. The adjustment straps 106a,b are preferably made of a very durable and strong material, such as nylon. The adjustment straps 106a,b are preferably connected to the frame 24 through the use of rivets or similar pins.

In order to further the wearability of the device 20, a waist strap 112 is provided. The waist strap 112 preferably comprises an elongate section of durable and relatively unstretchable fabric material. A middle section of the strap 112 extends along the middle section 44 of the second leg 30. End portions of the waist strap 112 extend beyond the second leg 30. A section of strap extends from the ends of the waist strap 112. Buckle halves 114a,b are located at the ends of the straps, allowing a user to join the ends of the waist strap 112 around his waist. Preferably, one of the buckle halves 114a,b includes a adjustment mechanism for changing the length of the strap 112.

Use of the device 20 by a user will now be described in conjunction with Figures 1-7. First, whether the user intends to wear the device 20 or secure it in an automobile or the like, a user locates an animal in the enclosure 26. A user locates the animal in the enclosure 26 by rotating the first leg 28 away from the second leg 30, and then placing the device on a surface. With the device 20 in this position, the legs 28, 30 provide a stable support for the device 20.

The user then slides the dog collar through loops 88 in the enclosure 26. Next, the user gently lowers the animal into the cavity 70 of the enclosure 26 feet (or paws) first. The user preferably arranges the animal so that its head faces toward the shoulder straps 100a,b (i.e. away from the leg 34). The user then pulls the loops 88a-d around the animal's collar, and snaps them shut (or in the instance where the loops are permanently closed, the user runs the animal's collar through the loops and then closes the collar about the animal's neck) . Once the user has the animal's collar secured about the animal and within the loops, the loops center the animal within the enclosure 26. Further, the loops in combination with the collar restrain the animal, preventing it from jumping out of the enclosure 26.

The user then adjusts the length of the enclosure 26 so that the animal's head is located just above the top surface 62 of the enclosure. A user accomplishes this by adjusting the straps 76a,b that connect the bottom 54 of the enclosure 26 to the wall 58. The user adjusts the straps 76a,b to manipulate the distance between the lower support surface 72 and the open top end 62.

When properly adjusted, not only is the animal held securely in the device 20, but because the animal's head is located above the open top end 62, the animal receives sufficient air, and can see its surroundings. Further, the central location of the animal in the enclosure 26 results in an air space between the animal and the material comprising the enclosure 26, preventing the animal from becoming too hot. Use of the hood 116 is as follows. First, the user may fold back the hood 116 (as illustrated in Figure 4) to a position in which it does not extend over the top end 62 of the enclosure 26. To cover the animal's head, the user pulls the hood

116 upwardly. The arches 140,142 rotate about their connections with the guides 46,48 until the front arch extends vertically upward as illustrated in Figure 1. At this time the cover 120 of the hood 116 covers the animal's head and body.

In addition, the user may locate the cover 126 of the hood 116 over the front opening 132 thereof.

A user may utilize the hood 116 for numerous reasons. First, if the user is transporting the animal through harsh weather conditions, the user can extend the hood 116 over the animal's head in order to protect it. The user may also, however, wish to either prevent others from seeing the animal, or limit the ability of the animal's view. For example, the user may wish to limit the animal's view if transporting the animal through an area where the external conditions (for example, the existence of other animals, crowds, cars, etc.) might excite the animal.

Additionally, when the cover 126 covers the front opening, the animal is further isolated and protected. For example, when the animal might be in a location where others approach it, the cover prevents the dog from biting. The present frame design is particularly suited to being secured in a car by a user. In particular, the user may easily buckle the animal-containing device to a seat in the automobile, thus securing it thereto. To accomplish this, the user simply sets the device 20 in the seat of the automobile with the second leg 30 adjacent the seatback and then runs a seat belt around the legs 28,30, securing it to the seat.

Advantageously, the lengths of the legs 28,30 in combination with their shapes and positions in the spread- apart or extended state allows the device 20 to sit securely on the seat of an automobile.

A user might also place the device 20, with the animal secured therein, on the floor of a vehicle. For example, because the device 20 provides rigid support and restraint of the animal, the device 20 might merely be placed on the floor of an automobile between the dash and front seat, or front and rear seats.

Most advantageously, a user may also wear the device 20 on his or her body. A user lifts the device 20, with the animal secured therein, and places his or her arms through the shoulder straps 100a,b. The user slips one arm through one of the straps 100a,b on the device, and slowly lifts the device 20 while simultaneously placing the other arm through the other strap I00a,b until the straps pass over each shoulder. The user then adjusts straps 106a,b to provide a snug fit and position the device 20 properly on one's back. Further, the user opens the buckle 114a,b on the waist strap 112, fits the strap 112 around the waist, and then locks and adjusts the strap to secure the lower portion of the frame 24 to the user. The user then folds the first leg 28 inwardly toward the second leg 30 to minimize the space occupied by the device 20.

When a user wears the device 20, the device 20 allows for easy transport of an animal. This is true whether the wearer is hiking, walking, cycling or the like. In any case, the animal is fully secure, safe, and is located in a position that permits maximum enjoyment by the user and animal. The animal restraint mechanism of the present invention prevents the animal from exiting the enclosure, and from shifting back and forth substantially within the enclosure. This feature is of especial importance, as when a user is wearing the device when cycling, substantial shifting of the animal could cause the user to lose his or her balance and crash.

Further, the animal's head is located in a fixed position regardless of its size, because of the collar/loop animal restraint mechanism. The central location of the animal the fact that its head it located above the enclosure means that the animal enjoys travel in the device, the animal being able to see in every direction. In accordance with the present invention, many variations of the invention are contemplated. For example, other means for restraining 86 are contemplated as within the scope of the invention. For example, less than four loops 88a-d may be provided. Further, the means 86 might comprise a rigid frame located in the enclosure which surrounds and maintains the position of the animal, or a harness which encompasses the body of the animal instead of merely its neck. In fact, any means which fairly centrally locates the animal within the enclosure 26 and also restrains the animal therein, is contemplated. It should be understood that a variety of means for connecting the enclosure 26 to the frame 24 are contemplated, including use of hook and loop material, snaps, locking straps, clips, and other devices. Further, the exact arrangement of these means on the enclosure 26 and frame 24 will depend on the exact frame and/or enclosure configuration.

As illustrated, the middle connection portion 36,44 of each leg 28,30 is used to support the device on the ground. In order to further provide stability to the device, one or more feet may located on the middle connecting portion 44,46 of one or both of the frame legs 28,30. If included, the feet may be made of a durable plastic or rubber material.

It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatus and the method therefrom are merely illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention and many other embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM :

1. A device useful in restraining and transporting an animal comprising: a supporting frame including a first "U"-shaped leg member and a second "U"-shaped leg member rotatably connected to said first leg member; an animal enclosure, said enclosure having a first closed end, upstanding wall and open top end; an enclosure support member connected to said frame, said animal enclosure connected to said enclosure support member; and a hood member connected to said frame, said hood member for selective location over the open top end of said animal enclosure.

2. The device of Claim 1, further including a pair of guides, said first and second leg members connected to said guides.

3. The device of Claim 2, wherein each guide has at least one surface with a slot therein in which one of said legs may rotate.

4. The device of Claim 3, wherein said slot is hour-glass shaped.

5. The device of Claim 1, wherein said hood comprises a cover mounted on a hood frame.

6. The device of Claim 5, wherein said hood frame includes at least one support arch.

7. The device of Claim 6, wherein there are two support arches, said arches rotatably connected to said frame.

8. The device of Claim 1, wherein said hood has at least one open side and further including a cover for selective location over said open side of said hood.

9. The device of Claim 8, wherein said cover comprises a mesh screen.

10. An animal restrain device for containing and restraining an animal, comprising: a frame, said frame including a first leg and a second leg, said legs pivotally connected to one another, and an enclosure support member; an animal enclosure, said enclosure having a closed bottom end, an upstanding wall, and an open top end; a hood, said hood comprising a cover located on a frame, said frame including at least one rigid support rotatably connected to said frame, said hood having at least one open side; and a screen connected to said hood for selective location over said open side of said hood.

11. The device of Claim 10, further including a pair of guides, said legs connected to said guides.

12. The device of Claim 11, wherein said first leg is rigidly connected to said guides and said second leg is rotatably connected to said guides.

13. The device of Claim 12, wherein said second leg is connected to said guides in a slot.

14. The device of Claim 13, wherein said slot is hour-glass shaped.

15. The device of Claim 10, wherein said enclosure support comprises "C^M-shaped member having its ends connected to said guides.

16. The device of Claim 10, wherein said enclosure support is rotatably connected to the remainder of said frame.

17. The device of Claim 10, wherein said hood is supported by two rigid arches.

18. The device of Claim 17, wherein said arches are rotatably connected to said frame.

19. The device of Claim 10, wherein said screen comprises a flexible mesh material.