In sternal recumbency, what is essential to maintain the dog's position?

In sternal recumbency, maintaining a dog's position is best achieved by applying gentle downward pressure. This technique provides stability without causing discomfort or stress to the dog, allowing for a calm and controlled environment. The application of gentle pressure helps to keep the dog securely in place while still permitting natural, relaxed movement, which is important for their comfort and well-being.

Using heavy restraints is not ideal, as it can cause anxiety and stress for the animal, leading to potential complications or panic. Pulling the tail downward can also be distressing and does not effectively help in maintaining the overall position. Constantly moving the dog would disrupt the sternal recumbency that is desired, making it difficult to achieve the stability needed for whatever procedure is being performed. Thus, gentle downward pressure is the most effective and humane method to ensure the dog remains in a stable, sternal recumbent position.