The moment we've been waiting for is finally here!
The 2024 total solar eclipse will take place on April 8, and if you're lucky enough to be in its path, it's cause for serious celebration (after all, this won't happen again until 2044!). By now, you've hopefully made your plans and bought your eclipse glasses so you can safely view the celestial event. But in all the excitement, pet owners are left wondering: What about our four-legged friends? Do dogs and cats need solar eclipse glasses? Should they be kept inside on April 8? Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, Veterinary Medical Advisor for Rover, helped us clear up any questions pet owners may have.
Does my dog need eclipse glasses?
To put it simply, no. While humans will spend April 8 gazing at the sky, our dogs and cats will not. According to Dr. Greenstein, "Pets instinctively avoid looking at the sun, so it’s likely not necessary to buy them special protective glasses or keep them inside to avoid the sunlight." She continues, "Do not force nor encourage your pet to look at the eclipse, as staring at the sun can cause ocular damage in pets just like it does in people."
Will dogs and cats act differently during the eclipse?
It's possible! While Dr. Greenstein says that animals won't be able to anticipate that an eclipse is going to happen, they may react to the sudden darkness. She explains, "You may notice your pets exhibiting behavior typically seen closer to bedtime or after dark. For example, they may go lie in their bed or wherever they would usually spend time in the evening." The eclipse only lasts about 4 minutes in the path of totality, so they should resume their usual behavior afterward.
If your pet is sensitive to change or anxious, try keeping to your regular routine on April 8.
Dr. Greenstein recommends keeping animals at home, rather than taking them to a crowded viewing party, and keep them comfortable and distracted with their favorite treats and toys.
Is the eclipse safe for pets?
Dr. Greenstein says that, while there are not significant health risks for pets related to the eclipse, there are some things to keep in mind. She explains, "All the commotion associated with viewing parties can be anxiety-inducing for some pets, so it might be safest to leave them at home if you’re planning to view the natural phenomenon."
If you decide to take your pet to an event, take along food and water and keep them on a leash at all times. Dr. Greenstein explains, "Pets that are more easily spooked may become anxious or stressed by an excited crowd, lots of noise, or the sudden unexpected darkness brought on by the eclipse itself."
Another factor for pet parents to keep in mind is travel. In 2017, 5 million people in the U.S. traveled to see the eclipse, and the Federal Highway Administration says "major traffic issues" are possible. If you're traveling with a pet, prepare ahead in case your trip takes longer than expected. Dr. Greenstein says, "Try to get all of your groceries and necessities a few days prior. If you do have to go somewhere with your dog, ensure you're prepared with water, treats, a leash and anything else your pet may need in the event of a long car trip."
Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers gift guides, product reviews, crafts, and TV shows like Yellowstone. She’s currently stitching up a cross-stitch pattern for the magazine’s next issue
