How to Keep Your Pets Safe During the Solar Eclipse

The solar eclipse set to cross North America on Monday, April 8, has humans aflutter with anticipation, but the phenomenon, and even more so the crowds it attracts, could be disorienting and anxiety-inducing for pets. During solar eclipses, when the sky briefly turns dark, dogs may cower, birds stop flying and grow quiet, and nocturnal creatures emerge.  [time-brightcove not-tgx=”true”] But the bigger concerns for pets, veterinarians tell TIME, are the anticipated mass gatherings. Millions are expected to travel and attend eclipse viewings that will likely provoke strong emotions in humans, which could unsettle animals.  Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer of the American Kennel Club, tells TIME that veterinarians are “more concerned” with the impact of human behavior and activity on pets during the event “rather than actually what the eclipse is going to do to the animals.” It’s important for pet owners to plan ahead—think about where you are going to be, the best place for your pet to be, and then prepare to make them safe and comfortable—Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, says. “Make sure that wherever your pet is or your animals are, their needs are met,” Carlson advises.  Here are 10 tips from experts about how best you can protect your pets during the solar eclipse.  Don’t bring pets to large gatherings  Veteri...
Source: TIME: Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Solar Eclipse 2024 Source Type: news