As the April 8 solar eclipse approaches and warnings are being issued not to stare into the sun, many people are wondering what they should do to protect their pets from the eclipse.
no glasses needed
First of all, there's no need to worry, says Jerry Klein, chief veterinarian for the American Kennel Club. Dogs naturally avoid looking directly at the sun, so there's no need to go out of your way to buy eclipse glasses, Klein says.
“In nature, staring into the sun affects (damages) their vision, making them vulnerable to potential prey,” Klein said.
But that doesn't mean you don't need to be careful. Klein said the only study on the effects of solar eclipses on dogs' vision was done as far back as 1932. So we don't know what harm it might do. But their eyes work just like ours, so solar eclipses pose the same dangers as when looking at the sun.
Don't try to get your pet to look up without sharing the event or wearing eclipse glasses, he said.
Be careful of stress
“They have a very close relationship with their pet parents,” Klein said. “There are studies that show that dogs can read human facial expressions, and some dogs are very sensitive to human words and tone.”
Because of this, people reacting to the eclipse are more likely to stress the dog than the event itself. According to the AKC, hiding, whining, panting, and pacing are all signs your dog needs a place to calm down.
If you notice any of these signs, take your dog to a quiet place. Distract your dog with a favorite treat, and if the excitement persists, contact your veterinarian.
avoid crowds
Heading out to a solar eclipse event? The crowds may overwhelm your pet. In some cases, it may be kinder to leave it at home.
“I sometimes get fed up with people bringing their dogs to street festivals, because not all dogs like crowds, and not all dogs are socialized in the same general way. “Therefore, some dogs may already be anxious about other people's noises, sights, and events, let alone the eclipse,” says Klein.
If you're going out with your puppy, make sure he's comfortable. Make sure you have water on hand, give them some space, and keep them on a leash.
sing your worries
Although your pet is unlikely to stare into the sun, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says signs of eye damage include squinting, closing one eye, pecking the eye, redness, irritation, cloudiness, watery eyes, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
“Just like humans, it's important to take the necessary precautions for a solar eclipse to keep your pet safe and stress-free during this astronomical event,” said ASPCA Senior Medical Director of Community Medicine. Lori Bierbrier said.
more:Solar eclipse occurring in North Jersey on April 8th
that also applies to cats
Suppose the same danger exists for cats. As for crowds, “most cats are indoor cats, and most people won't take their cats with them,” Klein said, adding that outdoor cats will simply seek shelter in situations where they don't feel safe. Deaf added.
After all, most pets are better off at home, in their own safe environment. Therefore, “think twice before including them.”
That way, people can enjoy the phenomenon and the festival, and then they can feel safe and more comfortable at home,” Klein said.
