As the excitement around Monday’s solar eclipse grows, experts have emphasized the importance of wearing special glasses to prevent vision loss while looking directly at the sun. While humans are preparing for the rare phenomenon, there is a question about whether pets need similar protection. Pet safety expert Melanie Monteiro believes that dogs and cats do not normally look up at the sun, so there is no need for special eye protection for them. However, taking extra precautions like keeping pets indoors during the eclipse can be beneficial.
While there have been stories of animals exhibiting unusual behavior during a solar eclipse, there is no concrete evidence of any danger posed to pets during the phenomenon. Michael San Filippo, a spokesperson for the American Veterinary Medical Association, mentioned that there is no history of pets experiencing eye damage after an eclipse. Dr. Carly Fox also stated that she has never seen any documented reports of eclipse-related eye damage in pets. The primary concern for pets during a solar eclipse is the risk of bringing them to crowded locations where they may become stressed.
Experts recommend keeping pets at home during events like a solar eclipse to avoid potential risks associated with large crowds and loud noises. If you do decide to bring your pet with you to view the eclipse, it is essential to keep them on a leash and remain calm to prevent them from getting scared. Planning ahead for possible delays while driving to witness the eclipse and ensuring that your pet is comfortable in the car is also important. Additionally, sticking to your pet’s regular schedule and having them engage in familiar activities can help reduce their stress levels during the event.
While it is advisable to keep pets indoors during a solar eclipse to prevent any potential disturbances caused by the darkening sky and dropping temperatures, the likelihood of pets experiencing eye damage due to the phenomenon is low. However, if you notice any signs of eye damage in your pet, such as squinting, eye discharge, or changes in the appearance of the eye, it is recommended to contact your veterinarian for further evaluation. Overall, ensuring the comfort and safety of your pets during the solar eclipse by keeping them indoors and being mindful of their reactions to the event is key to a stress-free experience for both you and your furry companions.
