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Ball Launcher automates playing with your dog
There goes one more reason why dogs need masters. This tennis ball launcher will keep that mutt entertained for hours, with no effort required from you. Jerry the dachshund appears to be well-trained, not only to place the ball just so, but to get out of the way of this contraption as it launches its bouncing projectile.
We found the shooting technique of this video amusing — the clever mounting of the camera on the device itself, and of course the irresistibly cute use of both animals and child. Looks like this thing could keep all your dependents busy for hours.
Via BB Gadgets
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By Michael at 6:42 PM ON 03/17/08
That dog is really well trained. Most dogs I know are scared of the vacuum so I would think the noise this thing makes would scare a dog as well. I could see where it would be good if a master went away on a weekend trip to keep the dog amused, but other wise if you don't have time to interact with a dog don't get a dog.
By izzardfan at 12:20 PM ON 05/22/08
If you go to the YouTube page where the file originates (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PcL6-mjRNk), the poster of the video has written this:
I built the ball machine because I thought my dog Jerry, might like it and that it would be something fun for me to build. So after two years of on and off work, with many safety features such as IR proximity sensors to protect Jerry and my son from the machine, I finally complete.
Far from being a replacement for me, I was always right there with him enjoying his fun. And with all the troubles that I went through to build the ball machine, I still end up throwing more balls than that the machine could count! According to the computer, he played with the machine by himself only 3 times in his life.
I recently put this video on YouTube to keep alive my earlier memories of him and (hopefully) provide some "humorous distractions" for anyone that might drop by.
By cherylf at 3:52 PM ON 09/17/08
I have 4 dogs who love to play ball. Have you thought about marketing this product? If so, I would love to be the first in line to purchase one.