to have this coping mechanism taken away from me for so long has been by far the most difficult part of my recovery process. if they seem calm you can stroke the dog in the direction the fur grows, not making any sudden movements and beware that some dogs have sensitive spots or issues with certain parts of their body being touched. mine is in a morning sun only location, which may also explain why it stays smaller. just through the dark forest, the emerald city, with all its treasures, awaits your arrival. 