Is the solar eclipse dangerous for dog's?

The Solar Eclipse will happen on April 8th 2024. According to NASA the eclipse will start in South Western Ontario at 2:04pm and end at 4:32pm with the most intensity around 3:20pm.

You might wonder if this should have any effect on your dog? Should you be keeping them indoors? could it cause them stress? is it even harmful for them?

Scientists have warned us not to look directly at the sun during the eclipse, and if you plan too there are special glasses that we are suppose to wear to protect our eyes. According to the Ontario Association of Optometrists, looking directly at the sun during an eclipse can cause burns, blurred vision or even permanent loss of vision.

Your dog sees the world a little bit differently then you do. Dogs seldom look up towards the sky unless something flying overhead catches their eye. Have you even seen your dog look up to watch a bird fly overhead? They don't look up for long and certainly would not know to look at an eclipse (even when the sky darkens).

The only study on the effect of an eclipse on dogs was in 1932 by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. It suggested that some of the dogs did appear to become stressed as if there was an approaching thunderstorm but they could not determine if it was stress from the eclipse or just stress from being involved in the test.

If you are worried that your dog may become stressed during the eclipse you should keep them inside. You could even crate your dog for a few hours during peak activity, giving them something long lasting to chew could also help distract them. A kong stuffed with yogourt or pureed pumpkin and then frozen over the night before would be an excellent choice. You could also try to distract your dog with some fun games or training in a quiet room. You should talk with your veterinarian if you feel your dog might have a strong reaction.

Enjoy and stay safe!

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