9 animals that just want you to give them a big belly rub for Christmas

What's that? You want a belly rub?

We're not talking about you, internet-dwelling human. Rather, these cute Australian animals that prove if nothing else, 2016 was a great year for tummy scratches.

It seems the animals they have Down Under love nothing more than a tickle here and there.

So here's a bunch that wouldn't mind your gentle caress, to help wash away the bad feelings of the year.

1. Of course this Pademelon Joey fancies a widdle tickle on its belly.

2. But this koala has a special trick: It won't let you stop giving it a rub.

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3. Although Harry the baby koala isn't too fussy about how you pat him.

4. This baby Tasmanian devil prefers a soothing head massage though.

5. Millie the wombat wants them ear scratches. She's basically a dog.

6. Big old rhinos, like this one, sometimes need a bit of lovin' too.

7. As do super tiny rats like Coco.

8. This baby dingo gives free howls with every hug.

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9. Indi the wallaby even to returns the favour.

Animals, hey?

We'd be a catastrophic mess of anxiety without them.