Pet people love animal photographs, but it’s not easy capturing camera-shy furry friends on film. Too often, one ends up with an album full of out-of-focus tail shots.

Rachael Hale doesn’t have that problem. The New Zealand-based photographer has earned the moniker “The Female Dr. Doolittle.”

Her new book, “101 Salivations” (Bulfinch Press, $19.95) includes such astonishing shots as a mutt with a tiny tabby kitten sleeping soundly . . . on the dog’s head.

She’s at the top of her game, so Hale can afford to share trade secrets.

“You don’t need expensive, high-tech equipment – natural light is best,” Hale says. “Keep it simple: the fewer people around, the better.”

A plain sheet or towel is the best backdrop: “Try draping a piece of fabric over your pet’s favorite chair to make him feel relaxed.”

Black animals disappear against dark backgrounds, so use white cloth for maximum contrast.

“Treats are usually very effective as a means of motivation,” Hale says. “It helps not to feed them first; don’t expect major cooperation after dinner!”

If you want your pet to look directly at the camera, Hale says, “Have them focus on you by making a noise with your voice or a squeaky toy.”

Some of the most priceless shots in “101 Salivations” are of puppies flopped out on their backs, sound asleep. To achieve this, play soothing harp music by Susan Raimond, who’s compiled CDs specifically to calm anxious animals ($15 each; to order, call [800] 971-1044).

Dogs follow commands like “sit,” but cats don’t take orders. “They’re very visual, so try a feather teaser or toy mice,” Hale offers. “Move the visual aid slowly to mesmerize the cat, and watch her eyes follow it until you get the perfect look.”

Hale also relies on what she calls the Hansel and Gretel technique: “Take your cat’s favorite treats and lay a trail that finishes exactly on the spot you want to act as a mark. The cat will [go] to the position you want without any fuss.”