Keeping your pet indoors with the curtains closed and using normal comfort measures is the best plan for dealing with the total solar eclipse coming on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Courtesy of Best Friends Animal Association)
Have you heard that there will be a total solar eclipse in the United States on Monday, April 8th?
It won't be completely effective in southeastern Pennsylvania, only 90%, but it will definitely be noticeable. Plenty of articles have been written about what humans need to do to watch this event and the best spots to watch it, but do you need to worry about your pets?
“There's no need to worry. This is a short-term event, and the change in your pet's behavior is temporary,” said Dr. Katie Krebs, assistant professor of clinical primary care at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in Philadelphia, in an e-mail. stated in an email. . “After the eclipse, pets will need to return to normal life. Animals that rely on light-dark cycles, such as birds, may be more affected, but the behavioral changes will not last long.”
She explained that while most animals are smart enough not to look directly at the sun themselves, their attention can be drawn to the sky when people around them look up and pay attention to solar eclipse events. . Krebs says pets don't need special eclipse glasses.
“The best way to avoid looking directly at the sun is to keep it indoors,” she added. “Also, avoid bringing your pet to a solar eclipse viewing party. Crowds can cause anxiety in many pets, and it's possible for others to see the sun with everyone watching and pointing.” Keep your pet's daily routine the same during the eclipse to maintain a sense of normalcy.
“You can provide additional nourishment, such as treats or toys, to distract your pet. Also, if your pet is normally anxious, consider administering an anti-anxiety medication during the eclipse.” However, be sure to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog or cat any medication. If you plan to stay home during the eclipse, your pet may want extra attention and comfort. It may be helpful to provide extra comfort and security.
Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization headquartered in Kanab, Utah, also released a statement with tips for pet owners.
“Animals are uniquely sensitive to changes in their environment, such as thunderstorms or full moons,” says Dr. Colleen Guilfoyle, a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society. “During a solar eclipse, animals can be disoriented or confused by the sudden change in light, depending on where they are in the total path.”
Tips from a good friend:
• The best way to avoid potential problems is to keep your pet indoors in a familiar environment.
• Consider closing curtains or blinds to minimize the effects of the eclipse.
• Are you expecting extra guests for the eclipse? Take additional measures to prevent pets from escaping, such as using a baby gate or keeping them on a leash.
• If your pet has previously shown signs of stress in similar situations, use previous management routines (such as using compression clothing) or consult your veterinarian in advance to manage anxiety. Please seek advice. This may include the use of supplements, pheromones, or medications to ensure a comfortable experience during the eclipse.
• If the darkness during the event encourages your pet to sleep or nap, let them do so. One of the benefits of being a pet is that you can nap whenever you want.
• If you are outdoors with your pet during the eclipse, avoid large, noisy crowds and keep your pet on a leash close to you.
• As always, make sure your pet is microchipped and that the information on the microchip is up to date.
The New York Times published an extensive article earlier this week about how homes, farms, zoos, and wild animals are reacting to Monday's four-minute blackening of the sky. Experts they interviewed said the animals could adopt a nocturnal lifestyle.
They also provided information similar to that provided by Mr. Krebs and Mr. Guilfoyle.
