A method for applying a cardiac support device to a heart of a mammal includes surgically accessing a heart, providing a cardiac support device including a jacket, and positioning the jacket around at least a portion of the heart by applying a pulling force to the jacket. The step of positioning the jacket can include using a tool from a position superior to the heart to pull the jacket onto the heart. One device for placing a cardiac support jacket onto the heart includes first and second tubular walls. The second tubular wall is oriented within the first tubular wall and against an internal surface of the first tubular wall. The second tubular wall includes a plurality of grooves and has an open interior volume to hold the cardiac support jacket. Another device for placing a cardiac support jacket onto the heart includes a tubular wall having a plurality of lumens extending between opposite ends of the tubular wall.