Daily Halacha - Is it Permissible to Pet Animals on Shabbat?

Is it permissible to touch muktzeh without moving it?

When the Sages prohibited moving muktzeh, they only prohibited moving it, but touching was never prohibited. However, with round objects that would move from their place through touching, it is prohibited. Therefore, there is no prohibition to lean on a car, even if it moves slightly in place (Chazon Ovadia 3, p. 161).

Is it permissible to pet animals on Shabbat?

It is forbidden to move animals on Shabbat, however regarding petting, one who is lenient and pets an animal has on what to rely [Responsa Ach Tov V'Chesed].

Ach Tov V'Chesed - Daily Halacha