WO2014071462A1

WO2014071462A1 - Improvements relating to animal footwear

Info

Publication number: WO2014071462A1
Application number: PCT/AU2013/001299
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pietro FERRETTI
Original assignee: Ferretti Pietro
Priority date: 2012-11-12
Filing date: 2013-11-12
Publication date: 2014-05-15
Also published as: AU2013344328A1

Abstract

An article of form fitting footwear for a companion animal comprising a plurality of panels comprising differing stretch and recovery characteristics joined together on the sole of the footwear by seams, whereby the seams, once the footwear is fastened around the animal's foot via fastening means, are drawn into the canyons between the digital and metacarpal pads with the sole further comprising five individual anti slip rubber sections.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO ANIMAL FOOTWEAR

BACKGROUND

The modern day companion animal has truly adapted to the lifestyle of his owner. Given the freedom to independently travel from Indoors to outdoor through the modern pet door, the domesticated pet is often left unsupervised for several hours of the day free to wonder on a variety of foreign surfaces.

Indoor surfaces could vary widely, for example, include wooden floorboards, polished floors, tiles and parquet. Some of these surfaces are slippery and can often cause companion animals to lose traction and inflict serious injury to joints, hips, lower spine, paws and other areas. As an example, an excited animal such as a dog may lose traction simply racing to welcome his or her owner or running to their dinner and thus causing unnatural strain to hips and joints in their effort to rapidly and inefficiently move forward. Contrasting risks are presented when trying to halt on the such surfaces and not having traction to do so causing the animal to sprawl or fall.

Furthermore additional hazards can confront the working dog, such as the Police, Firefighter, Security and Guide dogs when travelling for extended periods on outdoor surfaces such as concrete, gravel, textured pavers and other harsh surfaces, such as the scorching pavement in the summer months. These surfaces can often cause injuries such as abrasions, burns, bruises and so on to the digital pads and surrounding areas. Contrastingly the domesticated pet paws may lack substantial seasoning to the potential damages of excessive chilling in the cold winter months.

Racing animals such as greyhounds have to endure countless hours of training prior to racing events. Dog trainers are often looking for ways to relieve stress and support distal limbs from the repetitive work in preparation for racing.

Animals sustaining injuries to the distal limbs have often been forced to wear plaster casts due to the limitation of therapeutic options. Whilst younger dogs can more effectively wear such devices, older animals can have difficulty with such static (and sometimes heavy) casts.

Companion animals such as cats independently explore the local neighborhood. Limited visibility of animals travelling unsupervised at night Increase the risk of road kills and driver safety due to collision.

There have been many attempts to develop boots or shoes for companion animals such as cats and dogs. Initially it seems, that the attempts may have been predominately fueled by the need to protect the paws and legs of hunting dogs from the effects of harsh underbrush. These prior

l art patents have disclosed boots made from non-conforming resilient materials and one-piece rubber soles.

Prior art patents encompassing a one-piece sole, inhibit overall natural paw dexterity and independent use of the digital and metacarpal pads in adjusting to the contact surface. This feature would inhibit the animals often need to curl their digits to facilitate griping uneven surfaces or in jumping on elevated surfaces, the needed gripping when making initial contact.

Paw dexterity also plays an important part in supporting natural gait, therefore inhibition of this natural attribute could be detrimental to the safety of the animal by forcing adjoining joints to over compensate by articulating unnatural postures. Full paw and leg dexterity is equally essential for the safety of companion animals needing to maneuver a variety of surfaces indoors and outdoors.

These types of non-conforming embodiments that also commonly encompass the front claws cause excess stress to front claws in halting and in not allowing the paws to adequately and naturally spread, cause internal friction injuries between the digital and metacarpal pads when worn for extended periods. Additionally animals such as cats needing to use their claws when maneuvering the outdoors could not safely sport such a device.

Prior art boots have disclosed limited paw and leg anchoring mechanisms predominantly by way of singular or multiple hook and loop type cinching of the leg or paw. In the attempt to avoid displacement during use, these anchoring mechanisms, creating an anchoring factor on only limited sections need to be extremely tight and often overbearing. Therefore boots limited to cinching of the paw, carpal or leg region would not be comfortable for everyday use and unsatisfactory since circulation in the leg can be restricted thus negating any therapeutic benefit. In addition to negatively affecting the natural gait of the animal, this type of

uncomfortable cinching, in extended use, may also directly cause injuries to tendons and ligaments.

These often-elevated securing belts pose a threat of entanglement when traveling through a simple dog door and create an opportunity and an interest for the dog to bite through the anchoring mechanism. These Issues combined make these boots unsafe for the unsupervised animal.

In prior art patents presenting boots made of rubber, in the event that the chamber becomes corrupted by the effects of wet grounds, rain, or sweat, non-breathable rubber embodiments present a material that delay moisture evaporating. In extended wear these prior art boots could present the paw and leg to an environment prone to infection and moisture damage. In view of the foregoing, prior art patents that have incorporated features that restrict said natural mechanisms and processes could possibly cause injury.

U.S. Pat. No. 2, 424,172 to Huddleston (1941 ) disclose an outdoor rubber boot with nail openings for military and hunting purposes. This boot is anchored to paw by way of carpal cinching and in made from waterproof rubber material.

U.S. Pat. No. 2, 446,371 to Jones (1948) discloses a non-conforming dog boot with carpal cinching by elastic and a common covering of the paw and claws with a roughened one-piece sole to prevent slippage.

U.S. Pat. No. 4, 458,431 to Sinclair (1984) discloses a non-conforming water-resistant boot for harsh outdoors conditions. This invention presents two-strap cinching of the paw and carpal, one-piece thick rubber.

U.S. Pat. No. 5, 148,657 to Stafford (1991) discloses a non-conforming vertically static dog boot with carpal cinching and one-piece rubber sole.

U.S. Pat. No. 5, 408,812 to Stark (1995) discloses a non-conforming durable dog boot used for hunting, vertical Velcro opening with a two strap hook and loop type closure.

U.S. Pat. No. 382,378 to Stark (1997) discloses a non-conforming ornamental dog boot with carpal cinching.

U.S. Pat. No. US6186097 to Brockman (2001) discloses a water resistant Protection Shoe for the paw of the dog anchoring by means of cinching of carpal by strapping. This non-conforming shoe encompasses front claws and has one piece sole.

U.S. Pat. No. 6, 470,832 to Peacock (2002) discloses a non-conforming metal fabric dog boot with a hook and loop cinching of the carpal. This device presents a replaceable sole and a material resistant to being chewed through.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,526,920 to Griffin (2003) discloses a dog boot for hunting and other outdoor activities with one-piece sole, zipper and carpal cinching.

U.S. Pat. No.2005/0241 188 to Yeu Hoon Yun (2005) discloses a water resistant canine footwear with one-piece sole and common coverage of the paws and claws with carpal cinching.

U.S. Pat. No.2005/0092260 to Paxton (2005) discloses an outdoor dog boot with anchoring by cinching of the carpal. This boot encompasses paw and font claws commonly and has a one- piece sole. U.S. Pat. No. 6863033 to Fleming (2005) discloses non-slip pads lor animal paw pads attached by adhesive means. Exposure to moisture affects the viability to adhesive fastening.

U.S. Pat. No. US 2007/0039565 to Krottlnget (2007) discloses a non-conforming boot with cinching of the carpal by elastic lace and Velcro strap. This boot also has one-piece sole.

U.S. Pat. No. US 7,677,206 2010 to Southworth (2010) discloses an orthopedic animal boot designed to protect and support Injured foot while healing. This non -conforming boot covers paw and front claws commonly and has a one piece sole.

U.S. Pat. No. 6, 109,241 to Wrenwood Maloney (2012) discloses a two strap protective outdoor boot for activities such as hunting and rescue missions where the harsh terrain can subject the animal to cuts, scraping and abrasions. This non-conforming boot has a one-piece sole and is anchored by double cinching of the carpal.

The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an article of companion animal footwear comprising a plurality of panels with a plurality of stretch and recovery characteristics.

According to another aspect, there is provided an article of companion animal footwear comprising a body and a sole with a plurality of components optionally selected from 2, 3, 4 or 5 components^

According to another aspect of the invehtidn there is provided a form-fitting protective boot for the paw and / or leg of a companion animal comprising an anchoring sole created by a boot closure.

In another aspect, there is provided a boot for animals comprising five individual anti-slip rubber so le sections. Another aspect provides a boot for animals made from elastomerlc materials comprising different stretch and recovery characteristics.

In one aspect of the Invention there is provided an article of companion animal footwear comprising a one or more elastomeric sections which optionally divide into a plurality of sections when the article is engaged with a paw. In some embodiments, the elastomer is an ante -slip rubber and in some embodiments there is a single section which may optionally divide into 2, 3, 4 or preferably 5 sections when engaged under the paw. Footwear or components thereof according to the invention may comprise any suitable materials. In some embodiments, they comprise one or more of: elastomeric materials optionally joined by a seam, stretch materials treated in DWR Durable water repellent coating.

Footwear according to the invention provides a number of useful features, including for example, gradient compression of the leg and foot during movement.

In one aspect there is provided a companion animal boot comprising a five section sole that adapts by varying surface coverage dimensions.

In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a multiple-section sole that adapts by varying surface coverage dimensions. In some embodiments of the Invention, the multi-section sole has 3 or more sections, in some 4 or more and in some 5 or more sections. In some embodiments, the multiple sole sections are connected to elastomeric material, by one or more of: glue, stitching, seam and/or thermal bonding.

In one aspect, there is provided a form-fitting protective boot for the leg and / or foot of a companion animal comprising elastically stretchable material which comprises: a) A generally vertical and cylindrical tubular elongated portion to substantially surround a portion of the leg and a foot or paw receiving box comprising ; i. A zipper attached to said vertical portion; ii. A longitudinal slit opening in the said vertical legging portion extending from the open end to the paw receiver box that Is facilitated by way of attached said zipper. b) An anchoring sole adapted to form fit to the digital and metacarpal pad when said anchoring sole is activated.

In some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a protective boot comprising a protective anti fur entanglement zipper flap, in some embodiments, there is provided an ankle or carpal band that may comprise a carpal pad window; an opening for the carpal pad or window of fabric with a lower denier and some embodiments comprise an anchoring sole that engages with a plurality and optionally five, four, three or two canyons of the underside of the foot.

According to yet another aspect of the Invention, there Is provided a method for providing form- fitting protective boot to a companion animal foot and / or leg by drawing seamed material into cavities between digital and metacarpal pads. In another aspect, there is provided a method of protecting against abrasive injuries to a companion animal foot by drawing material in canyons between and digital and metacarpal pads. In one aspect of the invention there is provided a companion animal protective boot comprising at least one claw opening. Some embodiments of the invention comprise one or more claw protective covers which may comprise any suitable material, for example rubber, synthetic cloth, plastic, metal etc.

In some embodiments, there is provided an article of companion animal footwear comprising a carpal band which comprises a panel of stretchable material having preselected stretch and recovery characteristics designed so that said carpal band need not include elastic insert.

In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided an article of animal footwear in which different stretch and recovery characteristics are chosen. Optionally:

I. The first panel of stretchable material is joined to a second panel of stretchable material; ii. The stretchable material of the first panel has higher stretch and recovery characteristics compared to the stretchable material of the second panel; and iii. The first panel is connected to second panel by seam.

In some embodiments, there is provided, an article of animal footwear in which, in use, the first panel of stretchable material is adapted to support coverage of foot and/or carpal or tarsal anatomy that fulfills a larger scope of movement.

Articles of footwear according to the invention may of course be made in a range of sizes to suit the size of the animal in question. Similarly variations in the size and shape of any panels of which the footwear are possible.

In some embodiments, there is provided an article of animal footwear comprising an at least partially visible reflective marker which may provide extra visibility from a range of directions, preferably at least 30 to 100 degrees, more preferably greater than 100 degrees, more preferably greater than 270 degrees and most preferably greater than 300 degrees.

In some embodiments, there is provided an article of animal footwear free from hook and loop fasteners and strapping of the carpal.

In another aspect of the Invention, there Is provided a sole for an article of animal footwear comprising at least one Interdigital seam to optionally enable Interdlgltal contact and / or digital spreading.

In one aspect, there is provided an article of animal footwear comprising at least one section of form-fitting material. In another aspect, there Is provided an article of animal footwear comprising a plurality of sections wherein each section may provide one or more of (a) support, (b) greater range of movement, (c) space for protrusion of an anatomical structure, (d) close contact, (e) grip, (f) protection, (g) compression, (h) reduced stress, (i) relatively increased dexterity.

In one aspect there is an article of animal footwear comprising a fastener to assist to hold the article in operative position wherein the fastener comprises one or more of Velcro, a zip, eye and hook, clip, press stud, or any other suitable non entangling fastening means.

In yet another aspect, there is provided an article of animal footwear comprising an anchoring device which is optionally activated by fastening the article.

In another aspect of the Invention, there is provided an article of animal footwear comprising at least one signaling element to signal the animal's presence wherein the signaling element optionally comprises one or more of: a reflective device, a electromagnetic wave transmitting device, an inductive signal device, a sound creating device.

In another aspect there is provided a protective boot according to any one of preceding claims comprising a carpal window comprising an opening or single pane or double pane of fabric of higher stretch and recovery characteristics in respective of materials chosen of other fabric panels of the device.

The term companion animal as used herein refers to a domesticated animal which co-habits with at least one human. For the avoidance of doubt, the term 'companion animal' as used herein comprises pets, sporting animals, working animals and animals that might also be used in a laboratory. Co-habitation may include living on the same premises as the at least one human or a nearby premises. Companion animals may comprise any suitable animal capable of wearing a device of the invention including without limitation: canines, felines, rabbits, rodents, gerbils, hamsters, chinchillas, guinea pigs and ferrets and animals related to any of these.

Throughout this specification (including any claims which follow), unless the context requires otherwise, the word 'comprise', and variations such as 'comprises' and 'comprising', will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To assist with understanding the present invention, reference will now be made to certain non- limiting embodiments in the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 Is a front view of a device In accordance with the invention, with zipper 25 in closed position.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a device of FIG.1 , with zipper 25 in open position.

FIG 3 is a rear view of a device of FIG.1 in accordance with the invention.

FIG.4 is an explosive view of a device of FIG1 showing "5 SJAR SEAM" anchoring mechanism in open and closed position or free position and engaged position respectively.

FIG 5 is a side perspective of a device of FIG.1 when fitted.

FIG 6 presents the adapted indoor cat version of a device with nail protectors protecting from clawing damage to children and furniture.

FIG 7 presents a device fitted to a canine in the classic hunting dog-pointing pose.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

21 CGCS - Companion Animal Gradient Compression Shoe 22a "5 Star Seam" closed mode 22b "5 Star Seam" open mode

23 Ankle Band / Carpal Band

24 Zipper Seam

25 Zipper

26a Claw protectors for Indoor Cat model (not visible in FIG .6)

26b Claw protectors for Indoor Cat model

26c Claw protectors for Indoor Cat model

26d Claw protectors for Indoor Cat model

27a Claw Opening

27b Claw Opening

27c Claw Opening

27d Claw Opening Protective Zipper Flap

Dewclaw Region

(a) Seams around Claw openings

(b) Seams around Claw openings

(c) Seams around Claw openings

(d) Seams around Claw openings

Sections of compression material between "5 START SEAMS" and gripping pads Centre of "5 STAR SEAM"

Canyons between digital pads

Dog

Insert side for Zipper Protector Flap 26

Rear Carpal Section

Carpal Pad Window

Digital Pad Rubber Grip Section

Metacarpal Pad Rubber Grip Section

Rubber Grip Section seams

Ankle band / Carpal Band seam

Surrounding Carpal Pad Window seam

Carpal Vertical Seam 2

Carpal Vertical Seam 1

Seam No.5 of "5 Star Seam"

Seam No.4 of "5 Star Seam" 50 Seam No.3 of "5 Star Seam"

51 Seam No .2 of "5 Star Seam"

52 Seam No.1 of "5 Star Seam"

53 360^e Reflective logo

54 Compression Material between seam 50 & 51

55 Compression Material between seam 49 & 50

56 Compression Material between seam 48 & 49

57 Compression Material between seam 51 & 52

58 Compression Material between seam 46 & 52

59 Compression Material between seam 47 & 48

60 Compression Material between seam 46 & 47

DETAILED DECRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

It is convenient to describe the invention herein in relation to particularly preferred embodiments at times referred to herein as the device of the invention, or the CGCS. However, the invention is applicable to a wide range of situations and it is to be appreciated that other constructions and arrangements are also considered as failing within the scope of the invention. Various modifications, alterations, variations and or additions to the construction and arrangements described herein are also considered as falling within the ambit and scope of the present invention.

In some embodiments, the device of the Invention is a lightweight gradient compression shoe that is designed to offer improved anchoring ability, protecting the companion animal paws from traction loss and abrasive injuries while supporting everyday indoor and outdoor use. It is fabricated from breathable eiastomeric materials treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. Similarly materials such as Polar Tec Power Stretch - neo shell may be used.

In models designed for working dogs such as Police and Firefighting rescue dogs, the device of the invention may incorporate a cut resistant fabric layer such as Cut Tex pro fabric and Fire retardant treatments resistant to heat and flammability. The combination of using a breathable material coated with DWR allows certain embodiments of the device of the invention to offer water resistance to the paw and leg while allowing any created moisture greater potential to evaporate through the breathable fabric. Additionally such embodiments enable thermal advantages in winter.

The device of the invention may be fabricated from any suitable material, for example in some embodiments, a selection of elastomeric materials of different stretch and recovery

characteristics allowing the device of the invention to offer tailored gradient compression to foot / paw and leg anatomy. This allows the device of the invention to offer a complete anchoring factor with gradient compression. Fabric specifications are selected dependent on fabric panel shape, anatomical function, and needed support and movement dexterity.

In some embodiments, the device of the invention introduces a "5 STAR SEAM". The "5 STAR SEAM" is an Elastic net mirroring the underside canyons of the paw in design, sleeved onto internal boot sole fabric and brought to automatically engage with said canyons when boot is closed. This feature allows these embodiments of the device of the Invention to directly engage with the underside anatomy of the paw facilitating a form-fitting gradient compression of the digits, under-paw, upper-paw and leg. In turn this also allows for nail openings and toe dexterity. Some embodiments comprise 4 or 3 panels and some 2 or Λ .

In some embodiments, seams 52, 49, 48 and 51 can be manufactured as single seams as they cross the center almost straight. In some such embodiments a 5 star seam may for example comprise 3 seams that may create 5 panels. Some embodiments do not comprise seam 50 and in some of these, two seams may create 4 panels.

The device of the invention may include a carpal or ankle band comprising a panel of 81 re tenable material having chosen stretch and recovery characteristics designed so that said carpal band need not include an elastic insert. The Carpal band together with the "5 STAR SEAM" are features that contribute to offering a comfortable form fitting article of animal footwear secured without the need for dangerous overbearing cinching of the carpal.

In some embodiments, the device of the invention Is a form fitted animal shoe with five rubber sole sections adapted to allow the paw pads to adjust to contact surface area. This unique feature supports natural mobility of individual paw pads In their need to curl, spread, grip and bend. In allowing a sole to conform to surface ground, the device of the invention offers superior gripping to contact surface when traveling on uneven ground. Additionally the five hardwearing rubber sole pads also offer the paw superior independent traction control and protection from abrasive injuries while providing a natural feel. The device of the invention may include four front claw opening designed to allow the front claws to release. This feature allows the front claws to avoid sustaining undue stress while supporting claw-gripping function particularly needed by Cats when climbing trees and maneuvering outdoors.

Preferred embodiments of the device of the invention dramatically reduce or avoid

entanglement issues by having no extruding belts, fasteners or parts.

In some embodiments, the device of the Invention takes into consideration the detailed anatomy of the paw to comfortably supporting and not Impeding the vast postures the paw pads and carpal articulate in walking, running, jumping, climbing, halting, pointing, gripping, resting, scratching and even swimming. The unique combination of these features allows full paw and leg dexterity making these embodiments of the device of the invention comfortable for extended daily use for the domestic or working dog. Such features assist to make the device of the invention suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Furthermore the attachments of reflective labels on the boot allow companion animals a better opportunity to be visible to drivers when travelling at night, particularly because the labels are projected on four moving boots and visible from all angles. Companion animals wearing the device of the invention because of its comfortable superior features have a device that better projects these safety indicators assisting in their safety and the safety of drivers.

ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS

In view of the foregoing, the unique combination of features of various embodiments of the device of the invention present several advantages over prior art. When used as described the device of the Invention may for example comprise one or more of the following advantages: -

1 . Is skintight and naturally conforming to the anatomy of the under paw/upper paw and leg of the animal.

2. Offers gradient compression to the paw and leg of animal

3. Can be easily adapted to be used by a range of animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs.

4. Offers a therapeutic compression garment for the management of rehabilitating injuries.

5. Does not stress the front claws

6. Allows the animal full dexterity of the paw and leg

7. Presents minimal risk of entanglement. 8. Secures sufficiently to the paw without belts, straps or loop and hook type cinching.

9. Introduces an anchoring under paw device simultaneously created and activated by closing the zipper.

10. Is comfortable to be worn for extended periods

1 1. Protects from internal friction Injury of the digital and metacarpal pads unlike prior art patents that prevent the paw to spread.

12. Protects from traction loss on slippery surfaces.

13. Protects from damage on abrasive surfaces.

1 . Offers a thermal embodiment for the cold weather.

15. Protects from the scorching surfaces in summer

16. Easy to fit and remove

17. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

18. Is made from a breathable, lightweight, waterproof, fast drying and washable material

19. Offers animals superior safety by eight reflective labels being visible from 360^fi when travelling at night.

20. In the Indoors Cat version of the device of the invention, a boot that also protects from clawing damage to furniture and children

21. In advanced models for police and fire fighting rescue a model that offers cut proof and heat and flammability resistance.

Referring to FIG.1 there is shown a general reference to an example device of the invention (herein referred to as "CGCS") 21 comprising a general vertical tubular elongated legging portion terminating with a lower paw-receiving portion made from elastomeric material treated with a DWR coating. In accordance with FIQ 1 attached longitudinal Zipper 25 creates a vertical longitudinal slit to facilitate fitting CGCS 21 to animal paw. Zipper 25 is attached to the CGCS 21 by way of surrounding seam 24. Carpal band 23 is two-ply and sewn together at seam 44, thus material above seam 44 Is allowed twice the length in height but folded down Internally to create carpal or ankle band 23 to be two ply. This panel of stretchable material having chosen stretch and recovery characteristics so that said carpal band 23 need not Include elastic Insert.

We see that in FIG.1 the "5 STAR SEAM" extensions 48,49,50,51 & 52 run vertically up the boot. Seams 48 & 52 Join seams 49 & 51 that both Join at seam 44. Seam 50 connects to base of zipper 25. When the CGCS 21 is in closed mode seams 49 and 51 are brought together causing adjoining seams 48 & 52 to pull the adjoining "5 STAR SEAM" taut. In this position the "5 STAR SEAM" In engaging with the valleys between digital and metacarpal pads promotes common material sections 31 to be pulled between the inside cavities of the under paw creating deep canyons 33.

Also In FIG.1 we see the sides of the boot are fitted with reflective labeling 53 offering 360° visibility, allow the animal to be better seen when travelling at night.

Further referring to FIG.1 we see the four claw openings 27a, 27b, 27c & 27d. These openings are to allow the front claws to release from these opening and the boot to offer form fitting to the digits and paw. These openings are reinforced by seams 30a, 30b, 30c & 30d. To help avoid the dewclaw that sits in a higher position 29 puncturing the CGCS fabric, a small rubber panel may be sewn internally.

Referring to FIG.2 there is shown a general reference to CGCS 21 comprising the CGCS 21 in open mode. At the top middle we see an window called the carpal window 37 made from single ply elastomeric material of stretch characteristics to allow the carpal pad in front paws to protrude the window without sustaining undue compression. Stretch and recovery

characteristics for 37 would be chosen to allow the same boot to be fitted onto hind legs (without carpal pads) while still being equally skintight and form fitting to the carpal.

In some embodiments, the footwear does not reach as high as the carpal or tarsal pad, but instead compress below the carpal band. Some of these embodiments do not comprise a carpal window.

Another feature viewed in FIG.2 is the protective zipper flap 28. This flap is used to protect the fur from being trapped in the zipper when fitting the CGCS 21 to the animals paw. Protective flap 24 is connected internally at left seam 24.

Also In proceeding to fit the CGCS 21 to the companion animal, the paw would be received into the open boot FIG 2. Then the CGCS 21 would be pulled up until the claws are exposed through claw openings 27a, 27b, 27c, and 27d. At this point before effectively closing the CGCS 2 , the upper carpal seam of 45 would be hooked over the animal's carpal pad (on front paws) allowing the carpal window 37 to hold contact with the protruding carpal pad. Then the person fitting the CGCS 21 would clear the fur into the boot so as to be able to place the protective flap 26 over the carpal and pull section 35 over flap 28, before zipping up and engaging "5 STAR SEAM".

Material selected for Protective Flap 28 may include an insert that has a certain inherent vertical stability quality. The flap 28 has a wide top section that tapers down to a narrower width. The CGCS may be made of one or more elastomeric materials of different stretch and recovery characteristics offering gradient compression. A lower budget model may be made from one stretch fabric where standard gradient compression is achieved by pattern design, while using more than one stretch fabric can allow more advanced models to offer a superior fitted boot and more calculated gradient compreseion panel specifications. Sections 54,55,56 & 57 may consist of materials with more stretch and recovery characteristics to accommodate considerable adapting to detailed shape of digital paw when "5 STAR SEAM" is activated. In addition these characteristics need to allow paw full dexterity and to allow paw spreading without undue resistance. Side carpal panels 58 & 59 requiring less stretch in use and to allow greater compression to the sides of the carpal may include a material with less stretch and recovery, a higher denier. Panel 60 that needing to accommodate a larger action from metacarpal movement will need to have higher stretch recovery characteristics.

Seams 48,49,50,51 & 52 may include internally sleeved elastic for a stronger hold on more active animals such as working dogs and cats.

Also In understanding the "5 star seam" concept of the CGCS 21 , FIG 2 shows shallow canyons 33 of the disengaged/open boot 21 with respect to the canyons 33 in FIG.1 .

Turning to FIG.3 we see the underside of the CGCS 21 , comprising Five Gripping pads 38, 39, 40,41 , 42 that are to be made of a flexible hard wearing and resilient 1 mm textured gripping rubber. This rubber would need to offer the quality of resilient wear on abrasive outdoor surfaces while gripping to slippery surfaces, furthermore thin and flexible not to inhibit the form- fitting embodiment of the digits. Such rubber sections may be sewed 43, glued and/or thermally bonded to the outside of the elastomeric material.

Further referring to FIG.3 between said Rubber gripping pads 38, 39, 40,41 & 42, is the "5 STAR SEAM" 48, 49, 50, 51 & 52 that meet at a common center point 32. Material sections between "5 STAR SEAM" and rubber gripping pads are referred to commonly as 31 . When closure of zipper 25 Is activated, "6 STAR SEAM" Is pulled Into the underside canyons between the digital pads creating deeper canyons Flg.1 33. This allows fabric sections 31 to embrace internal sections of digital pads and metacarpal pads creating a buffer for internal friction injuries. Furthermore this feature allows a gradient compression form-fitting boot with superior anchoring potentials while allowing paw dexterity. Rear carpal section 36 comprises a fabric with medium stretch and recovery qualities providing comfortable support to carpal tendons and metacarpal. Section 36 is connected to sections 58 & 59 by seams 46 & 47.

Referring to FIG.4 a front explosive view of the "5 STAR SEAM" function Is presented. A common reference Is made to "5 STAR SEAM" In closed mode 22a and open mode 22b. When zipper 25 is closed, seams 49 and 51 are pulled in together to closed position 22a (solid line). In this position 22a, the "5 star seam" Is pulled to engage Into the underside paw canyons 33. When zipper 25 is opened, open position 22b (dotted line) is enabled; loosening seams 4Θ and 51 , allowing the "5 STAR SEAM" to release from canyons 33.

Turning to Fig.5 is a side perspective view of the CGCS 21 fitted to dogs front paw. The front claws are seen to release from claw openings 27b, 27c and 27d. (Perspective angle limits visibility of Claw opening 27a). Also visible in FIG.5 is the carpal pad extruding single ply carpal pad window 37 and 360" reflective marker 53.

Referring to FIG.6 a variation of the CGCS 21 for cats is presented with rubber cone protector's 26b, 26c & 26d protecting children, adults and furniture from being clawed. (Perspective angle limits visibility of Claw Rubber Cone protector 26a). In this embodiment CGCS may represent Cat Gradient Compression Shoe.

Proceeding to FIG 7, the CGCS 21 is presented fitted to a Dog 34. This embodiment shows a variety of paw and leg postures that the CGCS comfortably allows and supports.

Claims

1. An article of companion animal footwear comprising a plurality of panels with a plurality of stretch and recovery characteristics.

2. An article of companion animal footwear comprising a body and a sole with a plurality of components optionally selected from 2, 3, 4 or 5 components.

3. A form-fitting protective boot for the foot and / or leg of a companion animal comprising an anchoring sole created by boot closure.

4. A boot for animals comprising five individual anti-slip rubber sole sections;

5. A boot for animals made from elastomeric materials comprising different stretch and recovery characteristics.

6. An article of companion animal footwear comprising a one or more elastomeric sections which optionally divide into a plurality of sections when the article is engaged with a paw.

7. A boot for animals according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising elastomeric materials and wherein said elastomeric materials are joined by a seam.

8. A protective boot according to any one of claims 1 to 5 comprising stretch materials and wherein said stretch materials are treated in DWR Durable water repellent coating.

9. A boot according to any one of claims 1 to 7 that offers gradient compression of the leg and paw during movement.

10. A companion animal boot comprising a five section sole that adapts by varying surface coverage dimensions.

11. A boot according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the soles are connected to elastomeric material, by glue, seam and/or thermal bonding.

12. A form-fitting protective boot for the foot of a companion animal made of elastically stretchable material comprising: a. A generally vertical and cylindrical tubular elongated legging portion encompassing a paw receiving box comprising;

I. A zipper attached to said vertical legging portion ;

II. A longitudinal slit opening In the said vertical legging portion extending

downward from the open end to the paw receiver box that is facilitated by way of attached said zipper. b. An anchoring sole form fitting to the digital and metacarpal pad when said anchoring sole is activated.

13. A protective boot according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a protective anti fur entanglement zipper flap.

14. A protective boot according to any one of the preceding claims comprising an ankle or carpal band.

15. An item of animal footwear according to any one of the preceding claims comprising an anchoring sole that engages with a plurality and optionally, five, four, three or two canyons of under paw.

16. A method for providing a form-fitting protective boot to canine or cat paw by drawing seamed material into cavities between digital and metacarpal pads.

17. A method of protecting internal abrasive injuries to companion animal feet by drawing material in canyons between and digital and metacarpal pads.

18. A companion animal protective boot according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one claw opening.

19. A companion animal protective boot according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one rubber claw protective covers.

20. A companion animal boot according to any one of the preceding claims including a carpal band made of a panel of stretchable material having chosen stretch and recovery characteristics designed so that said carpal band need not include elastic insert.

21. A boot for a companion animal according to any one of the preceding claims whereupon different stretch and recovery characteristics are chosen ; i. The first panel of stretchable material is joined to a second panel of stretchable material. ii. The stretchable material of the first panel has higher stretch and recovery characteristics compared to the stretchable material of the second panel. ill. The first panel is connected to second panel by seam.

22. A boot for animals in accordance with claim 20, wherein, in use, the first panel of stretchable material is adapted to support coverage of paw and/or carpal anatomy that fulfills a larger scope of movement.

23. A boot according to any one of the preceding claims made in different sizes.

24. An animal boot fitted with an at least partially visible reflective marker when worn.

25. An animal boot free from hook and loop fasteners and strapping of the carpal.

26. A sole for an article of animal footwear comprising at least one interdigital seam to optionally enable interdigital contact and / or digital spreading.

27. An article of animal footwear comprising at least one section of form-fitting material.

28. An article of animal footwear comprising a plurality of sections wherein each section may provide one or more of (a) support, (b) greater range of movement, (c) space for protrusion of an anatomical structure, (d) close contact, (e) grip, (f) protection, (g) compression, (h) reduced stress, (i) relatively increased dexterity.

29. An article of animal footwear comprising a fastener to assist to hold the article in operative position wherein the fastener comprises one or more of Velcro, a zip, or any other suitable non entangling fastening means.

30. An article of animal footwear comprising an anchoring device which is optionally activated by fastening the article.

,

31. An article of animal footwear comprising at least one signaling element to signal the animal's presence wherein the signaling element optionally comprises one or more of: a reflective device, a electromagnetic wave transmitting device, an inductive signal device, a sound creating device.

29. A protective boot according to any one of preceding claims comprising a carpal window comprising an opening or single pane or double pane of fabric of higher stretch and recovery characteristics in respective of materials chosen of other fabric panels of the device.