CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – A solar eclipse will be seen across much of the United States on April 8th, but they can be unsafe for humans and pets without taking proper precautions.
A solar eclipse is a celestial event that occurs when a new moon and the sun are aligned on the same plane and the moon passes between the Earth and the sun which can result in a total, partial, or annular eclipse depending on where you are and other factors.
How does the eclipse affect pets?
Humans tend to find the experience fascinating, but pets can be a bit confused and possibly anxious about what’s going on as there will be a temporary darkness, according to the ASPCA. It’s also likely that pets won’t notice or be bothered by the eclipse as they typically don’t have the same interest in what’s happening in the sky as humans.
A solar eclipse can also affect animals through anxiety and behavioral changes and in rare cases, retinal damage. The human viewing parties or eclipse celebrations themselves may cause anxiety, so the best way to minimize your pets’ stress is to keep them calm and to keep them indoors.
Should pets look at an eclipse?
Like humans, pets can experience eye damage if they look directly at the sun during a solar eclipse due to high radiation levels. Pets typically don’t look at the sun directly outside, but that doesn’t mean they won’t. Pets tend to mirror our behavior, so if you’re stressed out, they could be, too, and avoid drawing attention to the eclipse by pointing up or including them in events.
How can you prepare your pet for the eclipse?
The ASPCA has provided a list of tips to prepare your pet for a safe solar eclipse:
- Keep your pet inside and away from the possibility of going outside for the duration of the solar eclipse. If they usually have access to a pet door to go potty, make sure they’ve had a chance to do their business and temporarily block that exit.
- Cover windows, blinds, and doors to help minimize anxiety and noise from eclipse celebrations and sun exposure. They’ll appreciate the safe and quiet environment. Have a catio at home? Consider closing off access during this time.
- Leave them safely restrained at home if you plan to view the eclipse outdoors. Leaving them unattended in a vehicle while observing the eclipse is also not safe.
- Double-check tags to ensure they have proper identification if eclipse-related noise and excitement results in flight or fleeing behavior.
- Keep them calm. Stick to their usual feeding, walking, and other normal routine activities as much as possible. Create a safe, quiet environment with distractions like their favorite toys and treats.
- Monitor their behaviors that may signal anxiety or other unusual activity. You can expect these to be temporary but consult your veterinarian if any concerns arise.
22News began broadcasting in March 1953 providing local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Follow WWLP-22News on X @WWLP22News and Facebook.