WO2022219547A1

WO2022219547A1 - Holding arrangement for a pet chew toy, use, and methods for fabricating

Info

Publication number: WO2022219547A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/053455
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lim CHUN KIAT
Original assignee: Chun Kiat Lim
Priority date: 2021-04-13
Filing date: 2022-04-13
Publication date: 2022-10-20

Abstract

The invention relates to a holding arrangement for holding a pet chew toy, comprising a base plate and a holding device. The invention relates further to a corresponding use and to corresponding methods.

Description

Holding arrangement for a pet chew toy, use, and methods for fabricating

The invention relates to a holding arrangement for a pet chew toy, to a corresponding use, and to corresponding methods for fabricating.

Increasingly, pet owners are beginning to understand the benefits of regularly providing mentally and physically engaging activities at home for their pets, especially dogs. These can be done through providing for chewing, licking, or working for their treats. For the majority of this application dogs will be used as the reference pet but this does not exclude other pets such as cats.

Widely known benefits of such activities include but are not limited to the following: Tartar control and overall dental health by mechanical scraping and saliva generation

Allows the pet to relax and feel good by releasing dopamine and serotonin Promoting good behavior by providing another source of energy outlet Keeping the pet occupied and mentally stimulated Promoting stronger jaws

There is a wide range of chew toys, also called chews, to choose from, for example, commercially available dental sticks, rawhide, dried animal parts (e.g. tendon, bully sticks, pig ears, pig skin), raw recreational bones, hard dried cheese, antlers, hooves, rubber chews, and nylon-based chews.

Many dog owners would provide their dogs with these chews independent of other apparatuses. These are then chewed on the floor of the house, the carpet, the sofa, a bed, the dog’s bed, or for those with the luxury of a garden the grass. Through the chewing process, dog saliva together with debris from the chew will often get deposited on the surface they are being chewed on as well as their paws, causing a mess deemed unhygienic and a potential safety issue for humans. This is especially so when the chew provided are raw bones, or other organic natural chews such as dried animal parts or cheese, all of which attract bacteria growth. Owners would sometimes place a towel for the dog to chew on. However, this method is often unreliable and ineffective as the dog and towel would move out of position through the chewing process, and the dog may reposition itself. Because of this, many dog owners may choose to opt for non-edible chews such as nylon-based or rubber- based chews, which are often less attractive to their dogs.

Edible chews can be costly for the owner, and so they would cherish a chew that is both attractive to their dog, long lasting, and that provides an effective teeth brushing effect. Unfortunately, many dogs work through their edible chew very quickly, naturally, with the intent to devour rather than for the recreational purpose of chewing.

Given their lack of dexterity, dogs will often try to get appropriate leverage on the chew to fragment it and chew smaller chunks of them in their mouths.

Consequently, the chews present a choking risk. This can be minimized by providing a non-brittle appropriately sized chew for the dog. However, even then and without fragmentation, as the chew wears down in size and without anything to secure it, it inevitably becomes a choking hazard for the dog.

Lastly, longer lasting chews sometimes go missing in the home, only to be found months later hidden under a rug, sofa, or corner of the house, attracting pests and rot.

Additionally, dog owners sometimes provide frozen treats made commonly from but not limited to broth, fruit, and peanut butter for their dogs to lick and chew. These tend to melt rather quickly and create a mess if not held by the owner outside of the home.

It would be preferable to improve provision of a pet chew toy to a pet, for example providing increased comfort for the pet and/or reducing debris. It would also be preferable to provide for a corresponding use and corresponding methods.

This is achieved by a holding arrangement and a use according to the respective main claims. Preferred embodiments can be derived from the dependent claims. The invention relates to a holding arrangement for a pet chew toy. The holding arrangement comprises a base plate to rest on a ground, and a holding device for holding the pet chew toy, the holding device being mounted to the base plate.

Such a holding arrangement provides for securely and conveniently providing a pet chew toy to a pet, for example a dog. The holding arrangement may especially be used indoor, but also outdoor. The base plate provides for securely placing the holding arrangement on the ground, for example a floor. The pet can conveniently sit or lie beneath or partly on the base plate. The holding device can hold the pet chew toy. It can provide for a convenient chewing position for the pet. It can also prevent the pet from moving the pet chew toy around in a house or flat.

According to a preferred implementation, the holding device may be swivel-mounted to the base plate. Thus, the holding device may provide for a plurality of chewing positions.

Especially, the holding device may be releasably mounted to the base plate. This can allow separate exchange of the holding device, for example when it has been damaged by a chewing pet or in order to clean it. The exchangeability can relate to the entire holding device, or to a part of it.

Preferably, the base plate has a lower side to rest on the ground. The holding device may be adapted for holding the pet chew toy above the base plate when the lower side rests on the ground. The lower side can provide for securely positioning the holding arrangement. It can especially be flat, or at least substantially flat.

The lower side of the base plate may have a slip-resistant coating and/or a slip- resistant structure and/or one or more slip-resistant pads. This can hold the holding arrangement in place.

Preferably, the base plate is made, or is substantially made, of steel. This provides for a substantially high weight and thus for stability. However, also other materials can be used. Especially, the base plate can have an upper side, especially being opposite to the lower side. The upper side can, for example, provide a surface on which the pet can lay its pranks on. Thus, the pet can secure the holding arrangement itself. The upper side can also collect debris from chewing.

Preferably, the upper side is covered with a covering material being wipeable, soft, and/or of high friction. This can provide for easy cleaning of the side most affected by debris. High friction can ease that the pet holds the holding arrangement in place.

For example, the covering material may be silicone. Also, other materials can be used.

The upper side may be fully or partially surrounded by raised sides. Thus, debris falling on the upper side is confined. This can prevent the debris from falling apart. Collection of the debris is thus eased.

According to an implementation, the holding device comprises a post being stationary attached to the base plate, and a holder being swivel-mounted to the post. This provides for stability and for a certain high of the pet chew toy over the ground, for example to conveniently serve a large dog. The swivel-mounting can provide for different chewing positions for the pet.

The holder may be limited swivel-mounted with respect to the post. This restricts angles in which the pet chew toy may be chewed.

Especially, the holder may be swivel-mounted only around an axis defined by the post. This allows for a one dimensional swiveling, especially in a plane. However, also more degrees of freedom can be provided.

The holding arrangement may further comprise a biasing device, defining a rest position of the holder. This can ensure that the biasing devise has a rest position, which can provide for an additional challenge for the pet when chewing, as the pet chew toy resiliently moves back to the rest position. The biasing device may be a spring being connected both to the holder and to the base plate. This allows for a simple and reliable implementation. However, also other implementations can be used.

The post can be mounted to the base plate with one or more screws. This allows for a secure and reliable mounting. It can even allow for a detachable mounting.

Especially, the post is mounted perpendicular to the base plate. Thus, a height can be defined for the pet chew toy over the base plate. However, also other implementations can be used.

One or more angles in which the holder is swiveling with respect to the post may be adjustable. This allows adaptation to a specific pet or to other restraints.

The holder may be a clamping device comprising a first claw and a second claw. The claws can securely hold the pet chew toy between them.

The first claw and/or the second claw may have a respective groove facing towards the respective other claw. The grooves may especially be V-shaped. The grooves can ease holding of the pet chew toy.

The first claw and the second claw may especially be biased towards each other by a screw and/or a spring. This allows secure holding of the pet chew toy, and even release and/or exchange of the pet chew toy.

The holder may comprise a connecting portion, connecting the first claw and the second claw to the post. The connecting portion may also provide for the mentioned swivel functionality.

According to an implementation, the holding device may comprise a pivotal connector for connecting a clamp and/or a chalice. The pivotal connector may especially be secured to the base plate. It may serve for a convenient positioning of the pet chew toy. Especially, the pivotal connector may comprise a clearance. The clamp or the chalice may be connectable to the pivotal connector by placing the clamp or the chalice in the clearance. This allows for easy and reliably securing the clamp or the chalice. They can also be removed easily.

Especially, the pivotal connector may comprise a first free end and a second free end. The free ends may partially encompass the clamp or the chalice. Thus, they may secure the clamp or the chalice.

The first free end and the second free end may partially delimit the clearance. This may help to hold the clamp or the chalice in place. For example, the chalice may have substantially the form of a part of a circle, especially more than a half-circle.

The first free end and the second free end may be adapted for holding the clamp or the chalice in a hook-like action. This can securely hold the clamp or the chalice.

The pivotal connector may be rotatably connected to the base plate. This allows for different convenient chewing positions.

The pivotal connector may be limited rotatable with respect to the base plate. The pivotal connector may especially be rotatable with respect to the base plate around an axis. However, also more degrees of freedom are possible.

The pivotal connector may have a rest position with respect to the base plate. Especially, the rest position may be angled with respect to the base plate.

According to an implementation, the pivotal connector may have a fixed orientation with respect to the base plate. Especially, the pivotal connector may be rigid. This allows for a fixed orientation and/or position of the clamp or the chalice with respect to the base plate.

The holding arrangement may further comprise a clamp, the clamp being connectable or connected to the pivotal connector. The clamp may especially be adapted to hold a pet chew toy. Preferably, the clamp is releasably connected to the pivotal connector. This allows easy exchange and cleaning.

The clamp can have an annular recess being at least partially surrounded by the pivotal connector when connected to the pivotal connector. The annular recess can ease connecting the clamp to the pivotal connector.

The clamp may have a receiving portion with a cutout for receiving the pet chew toy. This allows securely positioning the pet chew toy.

The clamp may have a plurality of protrusions, or two protrusions, surrounding and/or defining the cutout. These protrusions may be pressed against each other in order to hold the pet chew toy.

According to a preferred implementation, the clamp has a strap surrounding the cutout and/or the protrusions and being adapted to tighten the clamp around the cutout. The strap can provide for a force pressing the claws against each other.

The strap may be mounted to a notch in the clamp. This can secure the strap. However, it can also be used without such a mounting.

Preferably, the strap has a hardened end for insertion in the notch. This allows for easily inserting the end in the notch and for securing the end in the notch. The hardened end may especially have a rectangular shape. However, also other shapes are possible.

The hardened end may be made by welding an end of the strap to a stiff section. Thus, a strap can be fabricated using a standard process, and then the hardened end may be fabricated in a dedicated separate process. Welding may comprise adding a material, especially under increased temperature. The material may form a hardened part after cooling. The hardened end may be jammed in the notch. Especially, the hardened end may be put in the notch parallel to an extension of the notch. Thus, a force acting circumferentially on the hardened end, especially due to stressing the strap so that it holds a pet chew toy, clamps the hardened end in the notch and prevents it from releasing itself.

Preferably, the clamp has a substantially radial symmetric structure. This allows an indifference against rotation. However, also other structures or shapes can be used.

The clamp may be made of natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and/or of a soft or very soft material. These materials have been proven suitable, especially regarding resistance against a chewing pet. However, also other materials can be used. Especially, a food grade material and/or a material being resistant against chewing by pets may be used. Especially, the material may be resilient.

According to an implementation, the holding arrangement may further comprise a chalice, the chalice being connectable or connected to the pivotal connector. The chalice may especially comprise a mug for containing and offering the pet chew toy. This allows provision of smaller or special pet chew toys, for example pet chew toys that the pet can bring itself out of the mug. The mug may be provided with grooves and/or bumps on inside walls. This can slow down consumption.

The chalice may be releasably connected to the pivotal connector. Especially, the chalice may have an annular recess being at least partially surrounded by the pivotal connector when connected to the pivotal connector. With respect to these implementations, reference is made to the statements given above with respect to the clamp.

The chalice may be made of natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material. Especially, a food grade material and/or a material being resistant against chewing by pets may be used. Especially, the material may be resilient. The chalice may comprise a plurality of protrusions inside the mug. These protrusions may protrude radially inwards. Thus, the protrusions may help securing material like a frozen mass or flexible pet chew toy inside the mug. Especially, this allows putting the chalice in a refrigerator with a liquid mass that should be frozen to be provided to the pet.

The protrusions may be oriented axially and/or circumferentially. The protrusions may extend along the axial extension of the mug and/or along a circumference of the mug. However, they may also be interrupted. They may be formed at an outer circumferential wall and/or at a bottom of the mug.

The pivotal connector may especially be rigid. This allows for a definition of the position of a clamp or chalice.

The pivotal connector and the clamp or the chalice may especially have a wobbly connection. This allows for a connection that can be operated by humans, and prevents taking out the clamp or chalice by the dog. This also means that the connection has the ability for the attachment to move in harmony with the motion of the dog's chewing / licking motion, so as to absorb most of the force such that the base remains stable.

Preferably, the clamp or the chalice are insertable in and removable from the pivotal connector only when an annular recess is substantially parallel to the pivotal connector. Such a parallel orientation can usually only be achieved deliberately by a human. A dog or other pet would typically pull approximately perpendicular at a clamp or clasp when attempting to get the clamp or chalice out. Especially, the clamp or chalice may be held and releasable by the drawer effect, securing the clamp or chalice when not being parallel and allowing substantial relative movement only when substantial parts are parallel.

The holding arrangement may comprise a connector to fixedly connect the holding arrangement to an external entity. This allows securing a fixed position. For example, the holding arrangement can be fixed to a wall. The holding device may especially be configured to hold the pet chew toy vertically over the base plate. This ensures that debris originating from the chewing action or saliva from the pet will fall on the base plate, preventing contamination of a living area in which the holding arrangement is used. The mentioned configuration may especially be true for each orientation or position the holding device can have according to potential degrees of freedom.

The invention relates further to a holding arrangement for a pet chew toy, the holding arrangement comprising a base plate to rest on a ground, and a holding device for holding the pet chew toy, the holding device being mounted to the base plate, and wherein the holding device comprises a pivotal connector for connecting a clamp and/or a chalice, further comprising a clamp, the clamp being connectable or connected to the pivotal connector.

The invention relates further to a use of a holding arrangement as disclosed herein for providing a pet chew toy to a pet.

Especially, the base plate of the holding arrangement is placed on a ground.

The invention relates further to a method for fabricating a clamp for holding a pet chew toy, the clamp being fabricated to comprise at least a first protrusion and a second protrusion with a cutout between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, and an annular recess being adjacent to the protrusions, the method comprising the following steps: providing a mold, the mold defining an outer shape of the clamp, filling the mold with a clamp material, and opening the mold along outlines and taking out the clamp from the mold.

Preferably, the annular recess defines a plane being perpendicular to a symmetry plane between the protrusions. This allows for the protrusions facing approximately perpendicular to a pivotal connector. A first cutline may be defined at an outer annular circumference of a disc being positioned opposite to the protrusions with respect to the annular recess. A second cutline may be defined at an outer borderline of a face of one of the protrusions facing away from the annular recess. A third cutline may be defined at a side of one of the protrusions at least partially in a plane perpendicular to a symmetry plane between the protrusions and/or may be defined at an outer borderline of a face of one of the protrusions facing away from the annular recess. The third cutline may extend around an opening of a notch. A fourth cutline may be defined extending over both protrusions at faces facing the respective other protrusion.

Each of the mentioned cutlines may be used separately, or they may be used in combination or in any subgroup. The mentioned cutlines have proven to ease taking out the clamp from the mold. They are specifically adapted to the outer shape of the clamp.

Two molds, or more than two molds, may especially be adjacent to each other with a common filling line. This allows parallel filling of two or more molds.

The protrusions may be bent apart using a bar temporarily protruding in the cutout. This bar can provide for a final form with bent apart protrusions, between which a pet chew toy may be placed.

The method may further comprise printing a logo and/or text on a surface of the clamp. The logo and/or text may be printed by locally pressing the surface. This may indicate a manufacturer and/or provide advertising.

Preferably, the clamp material is natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material. Reference is made to the description relating to materials given elsewhere herein.

The invention relates further to a method for fabricating a chalice for holding a pet chew toy, the chalice being fabricated to comprise at least a mug, and an annular recess being adjacent to the mug, the method comprising the following steps: providing a mold, the mold defining an outer shape of the chalice, filling the mold with a chalice material, and taking out the chalice from the mold.

Especially, the chalice material may be natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material. Reference is made to the description relating to materials given elsewhere herein.

The chalice may be formed with a plurality of protrusions protruding radially inwards inside the mug. Reference is made to the description relating to protrusions given elsewhere herein. A soft material may also ease taking out the chalice from the mold. For example, if protrusions are formed, they may prevent a smooth takeout of the chalice from a mold. A soft material can allow for a temporary resilient indentation while taking out the chalice.

The chalice may be taken out of the mold using a demolder. This may ease demolding. The demolder may be a liquid material. Especially, the demolder may be a food grade demolder. This prevents contamination of the chalice.

The invention relates further to a method for fabricating a clamp for holding a pet chew toy, the clamp being fabricated to comprise at least a first protrusion and a second protrusion with a cutout between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, and an annular recess being adjacent to the protrusions, the method comprising the following steps: providing a mold, the mold defining an outer shape of the clamp, filling the mold with a clamp material, and opening the mold along outlines and taking out the clamp from the mold, wherein a first outline is defined at an outer annular circumference of a disc being positioned opposite to the protrusions with respect to the annular recess, and wherein a second outline is defined at an outer borderline of a face of one of the protrusions facing away from the annular recess. The clamp and the chalice may be regarded as separate inventive aspects. They may thus be claimed separately. All variations as disclosed herein can be applied. It should also be noted that all aspects disclosed with respect to the clamp and chalice may also be applied to the corresponding methods for fabricating them.

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to the base plate:

Anti-slip pads at the bottom of the base plate to prevent slippage from pulling. Hard, heavy plate such as but not limited to steel to add to further stability of the plate and lowering center of gravity of the entire apparatus.

Wipeable, soft, high friction material such as but not limited to silicone on the top of the base plate to entice the dog to rest its paws on it and allow maximum comfort in addition to being easily cleaned (of dog saliva and chew debris).

Raised sides of the base plates at the side furthest from intended dog position will prevent dog saliva and chew debris from falling off the base plate so as to better contain the mess,

The base plate may be made in any shape including but not limited to circular or pill.

The base plate may also come in different types of application, including but not limited to a simple flat plate or another clamp that can be attached to a sturdy furniture or fixture to allow the clamp to swivel off.

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to the post:

Two dimensional post between base and swivel part enables limited free motion.

Pointing and limiting the free range motion of the ball joint/strong spring towards the general direction of the dog enables the device to be more stable, as any pulling force likely to be exerted by the dog will be counteracted by the asymmetrical position of the post.

This is best supplemented by but not restricted to placing the device against a wall with the post closest to the wall.

Increases comfort for the dog as it prevents chew from swiveling away from the dog and requiring the dog to stand up and follow the chew as it moves. Raises the height of the chew such that it prevents the dog from using its paws to hold onto chew while chewing in a sitting position which may be unhygienic in nature for humans (consider raw bones, dried animal parts).

Secured with but not limited to a horizontal screw through the connector or use 2x bottom up screw on a horizontally placed cylindrical connector, or secured with a nut for the prevention of rotation by dog pulling.

Enables adjustable angle of the range of free motion provided by ball joint, in order to have a one-size-fits all dogs device, depending on the height of the dog, without having to limit the motion of the ball joint.

The angle is adjusted to aim the chew tip at the natural resting position of the dog’s mouth to encourage the dog to sit down in a comfortable position to chew (instead of standing or moving about).

This gives the optimal angle for the swivel ball joint (see description further below).

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to a ball joint:

Free limited swiveling of the chew makes it more difficult for dog from getting a good leverage to forcibly break the chew and thus extending the life of the chew.

Swiveling range of motion at the correct angle enabled by the pivotal connector for achieving the maximum ‘deep brushing effect’ for the dog.

Able to lock the swivel for introducing the device to dogs initially as the added stability will cause less caution the dog would apply to the device.

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to a holder:

The holder used should be but is not limited to a screw-type parallel jaw clamp.

The part holding onto the dog chew should be made of a harder dog-safe material such as but not limited to nylon on the outside and on the inside a softer dog-safe material such as but not limited to natural rubber to improve the grip.

V shaped groove to be cut into the grips of the claws in a cross section to allow optimal grip on chew in both angle of placement. Shape of the clamping device holding onto the chew will be rounded so as to minimize the damage that dog teeth can do once it reaches the end of the chew where it is lodged between the clamp to minimize risk of choking. Weighted ‘screw segment’ of the holder and low friction between ball joint/strong spring and cover to ensure the probability of dog chewing on clamp (as this is now on the bottom) is reduced.

The weighted screw segment also allows specific aesthetic design of the holder (made to resemble something e.g. a dog) to be preserved during and after chew sessions.

Creates a ‘spinning’ effect of the chew (as it returns to its original position using the weight after being displaced by the natural chewing motion), generating further mechanical scraping of the teeth to produce more efficient dental clean effect.

The entire holder will be easily detachable for hand or machine wash, and the owner can replace just the clamp component when it does get worn down over time by the dog’s inevitable chewing while trying to get the last bit of chew lodged in the holder.

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to a pivotal connector: Purpose of the pivotal connector is to point and limit the free range motion of the clamp towards the general direction of the dog, enabling the device to be more stable, as any pulling force likely to be exerted by the dog will be counteracted by the asymmetrical position of the pivotal connector.

This is best supplemented by but not restricted to placing the device against a wall with the pivotal connector closest to the wall.

Increases comfort for the dog as the limited swivel angle will prevent the chew from swiveling entirely away from the dog and requiring the dog to stand up and follow the chew as it moves.

Raises the height and angle of the chew such that it prevents the dog from using its paws to hold onto chew while chewing in a sitting position which may be unhygienic in nature for humans (consider saliva, raw bones, dried animal parts etc.). The pivot can be achieved by but is not limited to a simple bend of the base plate itself to produce an angled protruding piece which can be used to secure the clamp at an angle.

Combined with a slot in the protruding area manufactured just so that a person may fit and remove the clamp easily if moved in a specific angle parallel to the angle of the bend in the base plate.

This can be achieved by but not limited to ensuring that the diameter of the slot of the pivotal connector is just slightly larger than the diameter of the clamp’s neck.

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to a swivel:

Limited swiveling of the chew makes it more difficult for a dog from getting a good leverage to forcibly break the chew and thus extending the life of the chew.

The swivel motion also acts as a mental enrichment for the dog as it moves away from the dog unnaturally, providing an additional layer of challenge for the dog while chewing.

The dog chew may also rotate along with the chewing motion of the dog so as to provide the maximum amount of mechanical scraping against the teeth, providing an improved dental brushing effect as compared to chewing without this device.

Swiveling range of motion at the correct angle is enabled by the pivotal connector.

Apart from using a swivel ball joint, the limited swiveling function of the clamp can be simply achieved by creating an arc in the clamp which is used to slot into the protruding area of a given base plate at an angle. This allows the limited swivel motion to be replicated without the use of a ball joint.

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to a clamp:

A jaw or similar type of clamp may be used. The clamp can be made out of a single dog-safe material such as but not limited to natural rubber, silicone, or thermoplastic elastomers to provide both grip as well as strength.

In such cases the clamp may be fastened by squeezing it close around the dog chew and fastening with a strap such as but not limited to a ‘hook and loop’ in order to maintain pressure and secure the dog chew.

The strap may be but not limited to being further secured by an anchor slotted into the clamp for ease of use.

The clamp may also feature a slot and/or a curved channel to help the strap remain stable during use so as to maintain a set clamping force on the chew. The clamp can be designed in such a way but not limited to that looking at it from top down there is a vertical cylindrical cutout to fit a standard cylindrical dog chew. Towards the inside of the clamp the cutout may expand into a bulb to allow for dog chews with a bulb-like end such as the joint of a bone. Using a rib-like structure to fill in the space partially, when such an uneven dog chew is inserted, the elastic material of the rib-like structure may provide some ‘give’. The clamp is able to provide a good grip for both standard cylindrical and uneven dog chews.

The shape of the clamp holding onto the chew will be rounded so as to minimize the damage that dog teeth can do once it reaches the end of the chew where it is lodged between the clamp to minimize risk of choking.

The free swivel motion of the clamp creates a ‘spinning’ effect of the chew (as it is displaced by the natural chewing motion), generating further mechanical scraping of the teeth to produce more efficient dental clean effect.

The entire clamp will be easily detachable for hand or machine wash, and the owner can replace just the clamp component when it does get worn down over time by the dog’s inevitable chewing while trying to get the last bit of chew lodged between the clamp.

With a loose fit of the arc of the clamp with relation to the slot of the pivotal connector on the base, the user may fit and remove the clamp easily, while still remaining difficult for dogs to remove given the need to pull it out at an angle parallel to the bend of the protrusion.

The clamp may also be designed to be functional on its own. Without the use of the base it can still help to minimize the risk of choking for the dog, increase the longevity of the chew, and prevent the chew from coming into contact with the dog’s paws as well as furniture in the home.

In the following, some possible aspects are given with respect to a chalice:

A chalice or similar type of attachment could be used with the base instead of a clamp.

The material used for the chalice may be but is not limited to the same material as the clamp.

The chalice may have grooves and bumps on the inside walls so as to slow down the rate of consumption by the dog as well as prevent any frozen liquid from falling out of the chalice during consumption

The neck of the base of this attachment will be the same size as the clamp so as to fit the pivotal connector of the base the same way as the grip does.

The user may decide to use this attachment instead of the grip when the intent is to feed a wet or frozen meal or treat.

The chalice can hold foods and liquids and be frozen in the freezer before attachment.

The chalice can swivel the same way the clamp can on the base.

The chalice will make it easy for the user to contain and freeze meals and treats directly within as it can stay upright by itself.

Consuming meals and treats from the chalice attached to the base will slow the pet down given its limited swivel motion that challenges the pet.

The base will also contain any drool or melting liquids that may result from the consumption of foods and liquids from the chalice.

The possibilities of attachments are not limited to the examples here - especially the clamp and the chalice. There can be a whole range of attachments using the same system, not limited to treat dispensing and other interactive activities that the pet may engage in.

The invention will now be further described with reference to the drawing.

Fig. 1 shows a holding arrangement, a pet, and a pet chew toy,

Fig. 2 shows a holding arrangement, a pet, and a pet chew toy,

Fig. 3 shows a holding arrangement, a pet, and a pet chew toy, Fig. 4 shows a holding arrangement, a pet, and a pet chew toy,

Fig. 5 shows a holding arrangement, a pet, and a pet chew toy,

Fig. 6 shows a holding arrangement in an exploded view,

Fig. 7 shows a holding arrangement in an exploded view,

Fig. 8 shows a base plate,

Fig. 9 shows a post,

Fig. 10 shows a post,

Fig. 11 shows a holder,

Fig. 12 shows a holding arrangement,

Fig. 13 shows a holding arrangement,

Fig. 14 shows a holding arrangement,

Fig. 15 shows a base plate,

Fig. 16 shows a clamp,

Fig. 17 shows a clamp,

Fig. 18 shows a clamp,

Fig. 19 shows a clamp,

Fig. 20 shows a clamp,

Fig. 21 shows a holding arrangement,

Fig. 22 shows a holding arrangement,

Fig. 23 shows a base plate,

Fig. 24 shows a base plate,

Fig. 25 shows a chalice,

Fig. 26 shows a clamp,

Fig. 27 shows a clamp with outlines,

Fig. 28 shows a clamp with outlines,

Fig. 29 shows two clamps,

Fig. 30 shows a clamp with a bar.

Fig. 1 shows a holding arrangement 100 according to an embodiment with a pet 150 in the form of a dog and a pet chew toy 160 in the form of a bone.

The holding arrangement 100 comprises a base plate 200. In the shown embodiment, the base plate 200 has a substantial circular shape and is substantially flat. It comprises an upper side 203 on which the pet 150 Is currently situated. The base plate 200 comprises a raised side 210, which partially surrounds the upper side 203. The upper side 203 is made of silicone to be mechanically resisting and easily cleanable.

The holding arrangement 100 comprises a holding device 300 holding the pet chew toy 160. The details of this holding arrangement 100 are described further below.

Figs. 2 to 11 show the holding arrangement 100 of Fig. 1 or parts thereof in different perspectives, and partly the pet 150 and the pet chew toy 160.

Fig. 2 is a top view of the holding arrangement 100 with the pet 150 and the pet chew toy 160. However, the pet chew toy 160 is held in a different orientation.

Fig. 3 shows the same items as Fig. 1. In this case, the pet 150 bends the pet chew toy 160 upwards using its nose. This is possible due to swivel-mounting, as described further below. In Fig. 4, the pet chew toy 160 has a rest state after the pet 150 has released the pet chew toy 160. Fig. 5 shows a state in which the pet 150 has bent the pet chew toy 160 sidewards using its nose.

Fig. 6 shows the holding arrangement 100 in greater detail in an exploded view. It is seen that the holding device 300 has a biasing device 305, being embodied as a spring. The biasing device 305 biases the holding device 300 in a rest position if it is not actively bent. Fig. 7 shows a corresponding view from the back side.

Figs. 6 and 7 also show that the holding device 300 is divided in a post 330, a connecting portion 350, and a holder 360. These elements will be described in detail further below.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view on the base plate 200. There it can be seen that the upper side 203 of the base plate 200 is partly surrounded by the raised side 210 in order to prevent debris from falling apart. Two holes 201 are provided in the base plate 200 in order to secure the holding device 300, as described below. Fig. 9 shows a part of the holding device 300. The holding device 300 comprises a post 330, with a post base 310 for connection to the base plate 200. In the post base 310, two threaded holes 320 are provided. Screws 325 can thus be used to secure the post 330 to the base plate 200 using the holes 201 described above.

The post comprises holes 340, in order to put a screw 345 through them for connecting a holder as described further below.

With the screw 345, a connecting portion 350 can be connected, as shown in Fig. 10. The connecting portion 350 is thus swivel-mounted with respect to the post 330 and thus with respect to the base plate 200.

Fig. 11 shows a holder 360, which is directly connected to the connecting portion 350. The holder 360 is embodied as a clamping device and comprises a first claw 370 and a second claw 380. They have respective V-shaped notches 375, 385 in surfaces facing each other. Between the claws 370, 380, there is a spring 365, biasing the claws 370, 380 towards each other. This can be used in order to securely hold a pet chew toy 160, and a force can be applied manually against the force provided by the spring in order to release and exchange the pet chew toy 160.

The holding arrangement 100 can be used in order to conveniently provide the pet chew toy 160, like a bone, to a dog or another pet 150. Starting from a state in which the holding arrangement 100 does not hold a pet chew toy, the claws 370, 380 can be moved against the force provided by the spring 365 so as to increase a distance between the claws 370, 380. Then, the pet chew toy 160 can be partly placed between the claws 370, 380, especially with an end like an enlarged end typical for a bone. Then, the claws 370, 380 can be released so that the end of the pet chew toy 160 is securely held between the claws 370, 380. Especially, an enlarged end of the pet chew toy 160 may be held in the notches 375, 385. The main part of the pet chew toy 160 extends over the holder 360 so that a dog or other pet 150 can chew or play with the pet chew toy 160.

Fig. 12 shows a holding arrangement 100 according to a different embodiment. The holding arrangement 100 comprises a flat base plate 200 and a holding device 400. The holding device 400 comprises a pivotal connector 450 being connected to the base plate 200 and being pivotable around a horizontal axis. The holding device 400 further comprises a clamp 500. These components will be described further below. They are shown in Fig. 13 in another perspective. They are also shown in Fig. 14, wherein the state shown in Fig. 14 is such that the pivotal connector is not in an angled orientation, but is straight in a plane with the base plate 200.

Figs. 13 to 23 show the holding arrangement 100 of Fig. 12 or parts thereof in different perspectives, partly with additional components such as the strap mentioned below.

Fig. 15 shows the base plate 200 separately. There it is shown that the pivotal connector 450 comprises a clearance 460 in order to receive the clamp 500. The pivotal connector 450 then surrounds the clamp 500. The pivotal connector 450 comprises a first free end 451 and a second free end 452 partially delimiting the clearance 460. The free ends 451, 452 perform a hook-like action when encompassing a clamp or a chalice.

The clamp 500 is shown in greater detail in Fig. 16. The clamp 500 comprises a first protrusion 510 and a second protrusion 520. They define a cutout 505 between them, the cutout 505 defining a receiving portion for receiving the pet chew toy 160. The clamp also comprises an annular recess 530. The annular recess 530 can be put into the clearance 460 and be surrounded by the pivotal connector 450.

In the state shown in Fig. 16, the protrusions 510, 520 are spread apart from each other. This corresponds to a base state without acting of a force.

While Fig. 16 shows a perspective view of the clamp 500, Fig. 17 shows the clamp 500 in a top view and Fig. 18 shows it in a side view. These figures show the same state.

Fig. 19 shows a side view of the clamp 500, in which the protrusions 510, 520 are bent inside, so that they engage each other. This state can be used in order to hold and secure a pet chew toy 160 between the protrusions 510, 520. For example, a strap 540 can be used in order to bend the protrusions 510, 520 inside, as shown in Fig. 20. The strap 540 is, in the shown embodiment, secured in a notch 515 provided in the clamp 500. The strap can exert a force being directed radially inward.

Fig. 21 shows the holding arrangement 100 as described with respect to the previous figures in a complete state, i.e. , with the clamp 500 and its strap 540. Fig. 22 shows the clamp 500 and surrounding components in detail.

Fig. 23 shows a bottom view of the base plate 200. There it is seen that the base plate 200 comprises a pad 220 on its lower side 202, the pad 220 being made of silicone or another suitable material in order to increase friction to a ground and thus secure the holding arrangement 100 at a specific place.

The holding arrangement 100 can be used in order to conveniently provide the pet chew toy 160, like a bone, to a dog or another pet 150. Starting from a state in which the holding arrangement 100 does not hold a pet chew toy, the protrusions 510, 520 can be moved against a resilient force intrinsically provided by their material so as to increase a distance between the protrusions 510, 520. Then, the pet chew toy 160 can be partly placed in the cutout 505 between the protrusions 510, 520, especially with an end like an enlarged end typical for a bone. Then, the protrusions 510, 520 can be released so that the end of the pet chew toy 160 is securely held between the protrusions 510, 520. Especially, an enlarged end of the pet chew toy 160 may be held in the cutout 505. The main part of the pet chew toy 160 extends over the clamp 300 so that a dog or other pet 150 can chew or play with the pet chew toy 160.

Fig. 24 shows a part of the base plate 200 and the pivotal connector 450 according to a different embodiment. In this embodiment, the clearance 460 has the shape of a part of a circle and is larger than in the embodiment shown in Fig. 15. The pivotal connector 450 comprises a first free end 451 and a second free end 452 partially delimiting the clearance 460. The free ends 451, 452 perform a hook-like action when encompassing a clamp or a chalice. Fig. 25 shows a chalice 600 separately. The chalice 600 can be used instead of the clamp 500 shown in the previous figures. The chalice 600 comprises an annular recess 630 to be secured to the pivotal connector 450 in the same way as the clamp 500. The chalice 600 further comprises a mug 610 for receiving and providing smaller pet chew toys to a pet. Also liquid material can be provided in the mug 610. The mug 610 is provided with protrusions 611 inside in order to slow down consumption and in order to hold material in place. For example, a liquid material can be filled into the mug 610 and can be frozen in a refrigerator. The frozen material may be provided to a pet as a pet chew toy and is held inside the mug 610 by the protrusions 611.

Fig. 26 shows a clamp 500 in a more detailed view. As shown, the strap 540 has a hardened end 545. This can especially be made by welding. The hardened end 545 can be inserted into the notch 515. Then it secures itself against removal when the strap exerts a circumferential force due to its use for securing a pet chew toy.

Fig. 27 and Fig. 28 show a clamp 500 with four outlines 551, 552, 553, 554. These outlines define where a mold used for fabricating the clamp 500 is opened.

A first outline 551 is defined at an outer annular circumference of a disc 506 being positioned opposite to the protrusions 510, 520 with respect to the annular recess 530. A second outline 552 is defined at an outer borderline of a face of the first protrusion 510 facing away from the annular recess, and a face facing the second protrusion 520. A third outline 553 is defined at a side of the second protrusion 520 partially in a place perpendicular to a symmetry plane between the protrusions 510, 520, and at an outer borderline of a face of the second protrusion facing away from the annular recess 530. Furthermore, the third outline 515 extend around an opening of the notch 515. A fourth outline 554 is defined extending over both protrusions 510, 520 at faces facing the respective other protrusion 520, 510.

With respect to the outlines 551, 552, 553, 554, reference is also made to the figures, disclosing the shape of the outlines with is part of the disclosure of this application. Fig. 29 shows two clamps 500 being temporarily connected in a state during fabrication with a common filling line 710. The common filling line 710 allows for filling molds used to fabricating the clamps 500 in only one filling process. This shortens and eases the filling process. Also, a common filling line 710 can fill more than two molds in another implementation. Any material remaining in the common filling line 710 can be removed afterwards.

Fig. 30 shows a clamp 500 with a bar 720 used to bend apart the two protrusions 510, 520. Thus, they are brought in a final shape in which an end of a pet chew toy 160 can be put between them for holding the pet chew toy 160.

Especially, the holding arrangements disclosed herein can be made smaller than solutions known in the prior art. Especially, the holding device can be positioned at a low altitude above the base plate, for example as shown in the figures.

In the following, items are given in structured form. They can be combined with other items disclosed herein.

1. Holding arrangement for providing a pet chew toy, the holding arrangement comprising a base plate for resting on a ground, and a holding device for holding the pet chew toy, the holding device being mounted to the base plate.

2. Holding arrangement according to item 1 , wherein the holding device is swivel-mounted to the base plate.

3. Holding arrangement according to one of the preceding items, wherein the holding device is releasably mounted to the base plate.

4. Holding arrangement according to one of the preceding items, wherein the base plate has a lower side to rest on the ground, wherein the holding device is adapted for holding the pet chew toy above the base plate when the lower side rests on the ground. Holding arrangement according to item 4, wherein the lower side of the base plate has a slip-resistant coating and/or a slip-resistant structure and/or one or more slip-resistant pads. Holding arrangement according to one of items 4 to 5, wherein the base plate is made, or is substantially made, of steel. Holding arrangement according to one of items 4 to 6, wherein the base plate has an upper side being opposite to the lower side. Holding arrangement according to item 7, wherein the upper side is covered with a covering material being wipeable, soft, and/or of high friction. Holding arrangement according to item 8, wherein the covering material is silicone. Holding arrangement according to one of items 8 or 9, wherein the upper side is fully or partially surrounded by raised sides. Holding arrangement according to one of the preceding items, wherein the holding device comprises a post for providing a vertical distance between, the post being stationary attached to the base plate, and a holder for holding the pet chew toy being swivel-mounted to the post. Holding arrangement according to item 11 , wherein the holder is limited swivel-mounted with respect to the post. Holding arrangement according to one of items 11 and 12, wherein the holder is swivel-mounted only around an axis defined by the post. Holding arrangement according to one of items 11 to 13, further comprising a device for biasing the holder, defining a rest position of the holder. Holding arrangement according to item 14, wherein the biasing device for biasing the holder is a spring being connected both to the holder and to the base plate. Holding arrangement according to one of items 11 to 15, wherein the post is mounted to the base plate with one or more screws. Holding arrangement according to one of items 11 to 16, wherein the post is mounted perpendicular to the base plate. Holding arrangement according to one of items 11 to 17, wherein one or more angles in which the holder is swiveling with respect to the post is adjustable. Holding arrangement according to one of items 11 to 18, wherein the holder is a clamping device comprising a first claw and a second claw for holding the pet chew toy. Holding arrangement according to item 19, wherein the first claw and/or the second claw has a groove facing towards the respective other claw. Holding arrangement according to one of items 19 or 20, wherein the first claw and the second claw are biased towards each other by a screw and/or a spring. Holding arrangement according to one of items 19 to 21 , wherein the holder comprises a portion for connecting the first clamp and the second clamp to the post. Holding arrangement according to one of items 1 to 10, wherein the holding device comprises a connector for pivotally connecting a clamp and/or a chalice. Holding arrangement according to item 23, wherein the connector for pivotally connecting comprises a clearance, and wherein the clamp or the chalice is connectable to the connector for pivotally connecting by placing the clamp or the chalice in the clearance. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 24, wherein the connector comprises a first free end and a second free end, the free ends partially encompassing the clamp or the chalice. Holding arrangement according to item 24 and item 25, wherein the first free end and the second free end partially delimit the clearance. Holding arrangement according to one of items 25 or 26, wherein the first free end and the second free end are adapted for holding the clamp or the chalice in a hook-like action. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 27, wherein the connector for pivotally connecting is rotatably connected to the base plate. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 28, wherein the connector for pivotally connecting is limited rotatable with respect to the base plate. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 29, wherein the connector for pivotally connecting is rotatable with respect to the base plate around an axis. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 30, wherein the connector for pivotally connecting has a rest position with respect to the base plate. Holding arrangement according to item 31, wherein the rest position is angled with respect to the base plate. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 27, wherein the connector has a fixed orientation with respect to the base plate and/or is rigid. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 33, further comprising a clamp for holding the pet chew toy, the clamp being connectable or connected to the connector for pivotally connecting. Holding arrangement according to item 34, wherein the clamp is releasably connected to the connector for pivotally connecting. Holding arrangement according to one of items 34 to 35, wherein the clamp has an annular recess being at least partially surrounded by the connector for pivotally connecting when connected to the connector for pivotally connecting. Holding arrangement according to one of items 34 to 36, wherein the clamp has a receiving portion with a cutout for receiving the pet chew toy. Holding arrangement according to item 37, wherein the clamp has a plurality of protrusions, or two protrusions, surrounding and/or defining the cutout. Holding arrangement according to one of items 37 or 38, wherein the clamp has a strap surrounding the cutout and/or the protrusions for tightening the clamp around the cutout. Holding arrangement according to item 39, wherein the strap is mounted to a notch in the clamp. Holding arrangement according to item 40, wherein the strap has a hardened end for insertion in the notch. Holding arrangement according to item 41, wherein the hardened end has a rectangular shape. Holding arrangement according to one of items 41 or 42, wherein the hardened end is made by welding an end of the strap to a stiff section. Holding arrangement according to one of items 41 to 43, wherein the hardened end is jammed in the notch. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 44, wherein the clamp has a substantially radial symmetric structure. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 45, wherein the clamp is made of natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 46, further comprising a chalice for holding and/or providing a pet chew toy, the chalice being connectable or connected to the connector for pivotally connecting. Holding arrangement according to item 47, wherein the chalice comprises a mug for containing and offering the pet chew toy. Holding arrangement according to one of items 47 to 48, wherein the chalice is releasably connected to the connector for pivotally connecting. Holding arrangement according to one of items 47 to 49, wherein the chalice has an annular recess being at least partially surrounded by the connector for pivotally connecting when connected to the connector for pivotally connecting. Holding arrangement according to one of items 47 to 50, wherein the chalice is made of natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material. Holding arrangement according to one of items 47 to 51 , wherein the chalice comprises a plurality of protrusions inside the mug (610). Holding arrangement according to items 52, wherein the protrusions are protruding radially inwards. Holding arrangement according to items 53, wherein the protrusions are oriented axially and/or circumferentially. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 54, wherein the connector is rigid. Holding arrangement according to one of items 23 to 55, wherein the connector and the clamp or the chalice have a wobbly connection. Holding arrangement according to one of claims 23 to 56, wherein the clamp or the chalice are insertable in and removable from the pivotal connector only when an annular recess is substantially parallel to the pivotal connector. Holding arrangement according to one of the preceding items, wherein the holding arrangement comprises a connector for fixedly connecting the holding arrangement to an external entity. Holding arrangement according to one of the preceding items, wherein the holding device is configured to hold the pet chew toy vertically over the base plate. Holding arrangement for providing a pet chew toy, the holding arrangement comprising a base plate for resting on a ground, and a holding device for holding the pet chew toy, the holding device being mounted to the base plate, wherein the holding device comprises a connector for pivotally connecting a clamp and/or a chalice, further comprising a clamp for holding the pet chew toy, the clamp being connectable or connected to the connector for pivotally connecting. Use of a holding arrangement according to one of the preceding items for providing a pet chew toy to a pet. Use according to item 61, wherein the base plate of the holding arrangement is placed on a ground.

List of reference signs

100 holding arrangement

150 pet

160 pet chew toy

200 base plate

201 holes

202 lower side

203 upper side 210 raised side 220 pad

300 holding device

305 biasing device

310 post base

320 threaded holes

325 screws

330 post

340 holes

345 screw

350 connecting portion

360 holder

365 spring

370 first claw

375 notch

380 second claw

385 notch

400 holding device

450 pivotal connector

451 first free end

452 second free end 460 clearance

500 clamp

505 cutout

506 disc

510 first protrusion notch second protrusion annular recess strap hardened end first cutline second cutline third cutline fourth cutline560 logo text chalice mug protrusions annular recess filling line bar

Claims

Patent Claims

1. Holding arrangement (100) for a pet chew toy (160), the holding arrangement (100) comprising a base plate (200) to rest on a ground, and a holding device (300, 400) for holding the pet chew toy (160), the holding device (300, 400) being mounted to the base plate (200).

2. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the holding device (300, 400) is swivel-mounted to the base plate (200).

3. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding device (300, 400) is releasably mounted to the base plate (200).

4. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base plate (200) has a lower side (202) to rest on the ground, wherein the holding device (300, 400) is adapted for holding the pet chew toy (160) above the base plate (200) when the lower side (202) rests on the ground.

5. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 4, wherein the lower side (202) of the base plate (200) has a slip-resistant coating and/or a slip-resistant structure and/or one or more slip-resistant pads (220).

6. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 4 to 5, wherein the base plate (200) is made, or is substantially made, of steel.

7. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the base plate (200) has an upper side (203) being opposite to the lower side (202). 8. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 7, wherein the upper side (203) is covered with a covering material being wipeable, soft, and/or of high friction.

9. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 8, wherein the covering material is silicone.

10. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the upper side (203) is fully or partially surrounded by raised sides (210).

11. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding device (300) comprises a post (330) being stationary attached to the base plate (200), and a holder (360) being swivel-mounted to the post (330).

12. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 11, wherein the holder (360) is limited swivel-mounted with respect to the post (330).

13. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the holder (360) is swivel-mounted only around an axis defined by the post (330).

14. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a biasing device (305), defining a rest position of the holder (360).

15. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 14, wherein the biasing device (305) is a spring being connected both to the holder (360) and to the base plate (200). 16. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the post (330) is mounted to the base plate (200) with one or more screws (345).

17. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the post (330) is mounted perpendicular to the base plate (200).

18. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 11 to 17, wherein one or more angles in which the holder (360) is swiveling with respect to the post (330) is adjustable.

19. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the holder (360) is a clamping device comprising a first claw (370) and a second claw (380).

20. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 19, wherein the first claw (370) and/or the second claw (380) has a groove (375, 385) facing towards the respective other claw (370, 380).

21. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 19 or 20, wherein the first claw (370) and the second claw (380) are biased towards each other by a screw and/or a spring (365).

22. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the holder (360) comprises a connecting portion (350), connecting the first claw (370) and the second claw (380) to the post (330).

23. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the holding device (400) comprises a pivotal connector (450) for connecting a clamp (500) and/or a chalice (600).

24. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 23, wherein the pivotal connector (450) comprises a clearance (460), and wherein the clamp (500) or the chalice (600) is connectable to the pivotal connector (450) by placing the clamp (500) or the chalice (600) in the clearance (460).

25. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 24, wherein the pivotal connector (450) comprises a first free end (451) and a second free end (452), the free ends (451, 452) partially encompassing the clamp (500) or the chalice (600).

26. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 24 and claim 25, wherein the first free end (451) and the second free end (452) partially delimit the clearance (460).

27. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 25 or 26, wherein the first free end (451) and the second free end (452) are adapted for holding the clamp (500) or the chalice (600) in a hook-like action.

28. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the pivotal connector (450) is rotatably connected to the base plate (200).

29. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 28, wherein the pivotal connector (450) is limited rotatable with respect to the base plate (200).

30. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the pivotal connector (450) is rotatable with respect to the base plate (200) around an axis.

31. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 30, wherein the pivotal connector (450) has a rest position with respect to the base plate (200). 32. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 31 , wherein the rest position is angled with respect to the base plate (200).

33. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the pivotal connector (450) has a fixed orientation with respect to the base plate (200) and/or is rigid.

34. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 33, further comprising a clamp (500), the clamp (500) being connectable or connected to the pivotal connector (450).

35. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 34, wherein the clamp (500) is releasably connected to the pivotal connector (450).

36. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 34 to 35, wherein the clamp (500) has an annular recess (530) being at least partially surrounded by the pivotal connector (450) when connected to the pivotal connector (450).

37. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the clamp (500) has a receiving portion with a cutout (505) for receiving the pet chew toy (160).

38. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 37, wherein the clamp (500) has a plurality of protrusions (510, 520), or two protrusions (510, 520), surrounding and/or defining the cutout (505).

39. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 37 or 38, wherein the clamp (500) has a strap (540) surrounding the cutout (505) and/or the protrusions (510, 520) and being adapted to tighten the clamp (500) around the cutout (505). 40. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 39, wherein the strap (540) is mounted to a notch (515) in the clamp (500).

41. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 40, wherein the strap (540) has a hardened end (545) for insertion in the notch (515).

42. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 41, wherein the hardened end (545) has a rectangular shape.

43. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 41 or 42, wherein the hardened end (545) is made by welding an end of the strap (540) to a stiff section.

44. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 41 to 43, wherein the hardened end (545) is jammed in the notch (515).

45. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 44, wherein the clamp (500) has a substantially radial symmetric structure.

46. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 45, wherein the clamp (500) is made of natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material.

47. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 46, further comprising a chalice (600), the chalice (600) being connectable or connected to the pivotal connector (450).

48. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 47, wherein the chalice (600) comprises a mug (610) for containing and offering the pet chew toy (160). 49. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 47 to 48, wherein the chalice (600) is releasably connected to the pivotal connector (450).

50. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the chalice (600) has an annular recess (630) being at least partially surrounded by the pivotal connector (450) when connected to the pivotal connector (450).

51. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 47 to 50, wherein the chalice (600) is made of natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material.

52. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 47 to 51, wherein the chalice (600) comprises a plurality of protrusions (611) inside the mug (610).

53. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 52, wherein the protrusions (611) are protruding radially inwards.

54. Holding arrangement (100) according to claim 53, wherein the protrusions (611) are oriented axially and/or circumferentially.

55. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 54, wherein the pivotal connector (450) is rigid.

56. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 55, wherein the pivotal connector (450) and the clamp (500) or the chalice (600) have a wobbly connection.

57. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of claims 23 to 56, wherein the clamp (500) or the chalice (600) are insertable in and removable from the pivotal connector (450) only when an annular recess (530) is substantially parallel to the pivotal connector (450). 58. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding arrangement (100) comprises a connector to fixedly connect the holding arrangement (100) to an external entity.

59. Holding arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding device (300, 400) is configured to hold the pet chew toy

(160) vertically over the base plate (200).60. Holding arrangement (100) for a pet chew toy (160), the holding arrangement (100) comprising a base plate (200) to rest on a ground, and a holding device (300, 400) for holding the pet chew toy (160), the holding device (300, 400) being mounted to the base plate (200), wherein the holding device (300, 400) comprises a pivotal connector (450) for connecting a clamp (500) and/or a chalice (600), further comprising a clamp (500), the clamp (500) being connectable or connected to the pivotal connector (450).

61. Use of a holding arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims for providing a pet chew toy (160) to a pet.

62. Use according to claim 61 , wherein the base plate (200) of the holding arrangement (100) is placed on a ground.

63. Method for fabricating a clamp (500) for holding a pet chew toy (160), the clamp (500) being fabricated to comprise at least a first protrusion (510) and a second protrusion (520) with a cutout (505) between the first protrusion (510) and the second protrusion (520), and an annular recess (530) being adjacent to the protrusions (510, 520), the method comprising the following steps: providing a mold, the mold defining an outer shape of the clamp, filling the mold with a clamp material, and opening the mold along outlines (551, 552, 553, 554) and taking out the clamp (500) from the mold.

64. Method according to claim 63, wherein the annular recess (530) defines a plane being perpendicular to a symmetry plane between the protrusions (510, 520).

65. Method according to claim 64, wherein a first outline (551) is defined at an outer annular circumference of a disc (506) being positioned opposite to the protrusions (510, 520) with respect to the annular recess (530).

66. Method according to one of claims 63 to 65, wherein a second outline (552) is defined at an outer borderline of a face of one of the protrusions (510, 520) facing away from the annular recess (530).

67. Method according to one of claims 63 to 66, wherein a third outline (553) is defined at a side of one of the protrusions (510, 520) at least partially in a plane perpendicular to a symmetry plane between the protrusions (510, 520) and/or is defined at an outer borderline of a face of one of the protrusions (510, 520) facing away from the annular recess (530).

68. Method according to claim 67, wherein the third outline (553) extends around an opening of a notch (515).

69. Method according to one of claims 63 to 68, wherein a fourth outline (554) is defined extending over both protrusions (510, 520) at faces facing the respective other protrusion (510, 520).

70. Method according to one of claims 63 to 69, wherein two molds are used adjacent to each other with a common filling line (710).

71. Method according to one of claims 63 to 70, wherein the protrusions (510, 520) are bent apart using a bar (720) temporarily protruding in the cutout (505).

72. Method according to one of claims 63 to 71 , further comprising printing a logo (560) and/or text (565) on a surface of the clamp (500).

73. Method according to claim 72, wherein the logo (560) and/or text (565) is printed by locally pressing the surface.

74. Method according to one of claims 63 to 73, wherein the clamp material is natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material.

75. Method for fabricating a chalice (600) for holding a pet chew toy (160), the chalice (600) being fabricated to comprise at least a mug (610), and an annular recess (630) being adjacent to the mug (610), the method comprising the following steps: providing a mold, the mold defining an outer shape of the chalice (600), filling the mold with a chalice material, and taking out the chalice (600) from the mold.

76. Method according to claim 75, wherein the chalice material is natural rubber, silicone, and/or thermoplastic elastomer, and/or of a soft or very soft material.

77. Method according to one of claims 75 to 76, wherein the chalice (600) is formed with a plurality of protrusions (611) protruding radially inwards inside the mug (610).

78. Method according to one of claims 75 to 77, wherein the chalice (600) is taken out of the mold using a demolder. 79. Method according to claim 78, wherein the demolder is a liquid material.

80. Method according to one of claims 78 to 79, wherein the demolder is a food grade demolder.

81. Method for fabricating a clamp (500) for holding a pet chew toy (160), the clamp (500) being fabricated to comprise at least a first protrusion (510) and a second protrusion (520) with a cutout (505) between the first protrusion (510) and the second protrusion (520), and an annular recess (530) being adjacent to the protrusions (510, 520), the method comprising the following steps: providing a mold, the mold defining an outer shape of the clamp, filling the mold with a clamp material, and opening the mold along outlines (551, 552, 553, 554) and taking out the clamp (500) from the mold, wherein a first outline (551) is defined at an outer annular circumference of a disc (506) being positioned opposite to the protrusions (510, 520) with respect to the annular recess (530), and wherein a second outline (552) is defined at an outer borderline of a face of one of the protrusions (510, 520) facing away from the annular recess (530).