The iFetch Frenzy is a non-electronic, gravity-powered fetch toy designed for small pets, specifically dogs, to encourage independent play. It is intended for recreational use with miniature tennis balls (approximately 1.6 inches/40mm in diameter). The device itself is a white, vase-shaped unit with a blue base, featuring three openings at the bottom from which balls can roll out.
Function Description:
The iFetch Frenzy operates on a simple gravity-fed mechanism. A miniature tennis ball is dropped into the top opening of the device. The ball then rolls through an internal maze and exits through one of three random openings at the base, encouraging the dog to "get it" as it rolls out. This design promotes mental stimulation and physical activity, allowing dogs to play fetch on their own. The non-electronic nature means it requires no batteries or power source, making it a low-maintenance and portable toy.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Ball Size: Designed exclusively for miniature tennis balls with a diameter of approximately 1.6 inches (40mm).
- Components: The product package includes one iFetch Frenzy unit and three 1.6-inch diameter balls.
- Operation: Gravity-powered, non-electronic.
- Output: Balls roll out from one of three random openings at the base.
Usage Features:
- Simple Setup: To use, simply remove the iFetch Frenzy from its packaging and place it on a flat playing surface.
- Interactive Play: Dogs drop an iFetch ball into the top, and the ball rolls out one of the three bottom chutes, prompting the dog to retrieve it.
- Encourages Independence: The design allows dogs to play fetch by themselves, providing entertainment even when their human companions are busy.
- Training Potential: The manual provides tips for teaching dogs the "drop" command, which is essential for independent use of the Frenzy. This involves using two balls, rewarding the dog for dropping the first ball by rolling the second, and gradually transitioning to dropping the ball into the Frenzy.
- Training Guidelines: It is recommended to train with the Frenzy for short periods (10-15 minutes) at most three times a day to keep the game fun and engaging. Training should occur in a distraction-free environment on a flat surface.
- Safety Considerations:
- The iFetch Frenzy is NOT a child's toy and is intended only for pets.
- Users must inspect the device for signs of wear, damage, or fatigue before each use. Damaged units should not be used.
- Modifying the iFetch Frenzy or its components is strictly prohibited.
- Only iFetch balls or balls of the same weight and diameter (1.6"/40mm) should be used to ensure proper function and safety.
- Damage to property or pets resulting from the product's use is excluded from the warranty.
Maintenance Features:
- No Regular Maintenance: The iFetch Frenzy requires no regular maintenance due to its non-electronic design.
- Cleaning:
- For general cleaning, turn the toy upside down and feed a long, damp cloth through the bottom openings up through the top. Twist and pull the cloth back and forth to clean. Repeat for the other two openings.
- If the balls are dirty, they can be cleaned with a wet cloth.
- If the dog's fur accumulates on the outside of the ball, it can be removed by feeding the ball into the top of the Frenzy and trimming the fuzz that happens to catch.
- Addressing "Dog Slobbers": Heavy slobber can slow down the speed of the balls exiting the Frenzy. To address this, users can periodically wipe off the balls, dry them, or use miniature squash balls (1.5-1.6" diameter) if they help.
- One-Year Manufacturer's Warranty: US customers who purchase from authorized sellers receive a one-year warranty covering manufacturer's defects under normal use.
- Warranty Void: The warranty is void if the product is taken outside the US, misused, or not purchased from an authorized seller.
- Claim Process: To honor a warranty claim, customers must provide proof of purchase and obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) Number from iFetch.
- Remedy: iFetch's sole obligation is to repair, replace, or refund the purchase price of a defective product at its option.
- Exclusions: The warranty does not cover defects or malfunctions resulting from failure to follow instructions, unauthorized alteration, weather conditions, damage caused by any animal, abuse, misuse, negligent acts, or acts of third parties/God.
Additional iFetch Products:
iFetch offers a range of other pet products, including:
- iFetch: An electronic ball launcher for small dogs, launching 1.5" mini tennis balls 10, 20, or 30 feet. It can be plugged in or uses six C-cell batteries.
- iFetch Too: An electronic ball launcher for larger breeds, launching standard-sized tennis balls 10, 25, or 40 feet, featuring a built-in rechargeable battery.
- iDig Stay: A digging toy where owners hide toys or treats under three flaps for dogs to dig out.
- iDig Go: A fabric, pop-up version of the iDig Stay, offering easy storage.