Animal handling assistance system and methods are disclosed, including an animal handling assistance apparatus, comprising: a body panel; first, second, third, and fourth appendage pouches extending from side portions of the body panel receivable of appendages of an animal. The first, second, third, and fourth appendage pouches each have a proximal portion and a distal portion, with an opening on the proximal portion and on the same side as the inside surface of the body panel, with at least one pouch fastener on the distal portion attachable to the outside surface of the body panel such that at least one of first, second, third, and fourth appendage of the animal is restrainable against the body of the animal.