For the pelvic limbs, stand behind the animal and grasp beneath the axillae of both thoracic limbs. Lift so that the pelvic limbs are relaxed and hanging, then slowly lower the animal until both pelvic limbs touch the ground. This motion should elicit a rapid increase in extensor tone of the pelvic limbs as the animal prepares to bear weight. Upon contacting the ground, the animal will take several steps backward to establish its balance and bear weight normally.