Why canine act unusually throughout a photo voltaic eclipse – and tips on how to preserve them secure
The eclipse is set to be one of the most exciting celestial events of the decade, so here’s what you can do to keep your pet dogs safe and still enjoy the show
You have probably been hearing no end about colanders, eclipse glasses, and other hacks to keep humans safe during the eclipse, but what about our beloved pooches?
Any dog owner will know from Fireworks Night how our pets can be at sixes and sevens from just the smallest change to their night-time routine, so its probably for the best to clue up on exactly how your dog will react to the once in a generation lunar event, and what to do to keep them completely safe and happy.
Luckily for you, the Daily Star has been compiling all the latest research on how dogs react to eclipses, so you can enjoy yourself this evening without worrying about your furry best friend.
Are you going to be watching the eclipse tonight? (Image: Getty Images)
Why dogs react:
Just like their owners, most dogs enjoy the regularity of routine, especially when it comes to waking up and going to bed.
In fact, pooches are probably more in tune to things like the changing of sunrise and sunset than us humans are, and so it’s no surprise they can get a little bit agitated when things change.
This is one of the reasons why things like an eclipse can cause anxiety and fear in our pets, especially for any that already are of a slightly more nervous disposition.
Some dogs can get nervous during an eclipse(Image: Getty)
On top of this natural reaction, dogs are incredibly suggestive, especially to the behaviour of their owners. This means that if you or those around you are getting overly excited or frantic because of the eclipse, your pet might start feeling those things too.
It’s worth noting that eclipses can also bring with them loud, cheering crowds, honking traffic and fireworks too, so it’s worth keeping an eye on these disruptions as they might impact your dog’s behaviour too.
What to look out for:
Most experts agree that your average dog is likely to be fairly uninterested in the eclipse, although some pets have been known to gaze up at the sky while they take place.
However, many biologists and animal behaviour specialists reckon this may just be because their owners are doing this too, and they don’t want to feel left out.
Experts say that their are key signs for distressed dogs during eclipses(Image: Getty Images)
Some dogs have been known to experience a degree of confusion or unease, especially those that are used to going to bed when the sun sets.
Speaking to CBS back in 2017, Dr Katie Krebs, veterinarian and University of Pennsylvania professor said: “Most animals will be overall unaffected by the eclipse, but pet owners may notice brief periods of confusion.”
Erica Cartmill, Indiana University professor of animal behaviour agreed with this, saying: ““Your dog might stare up at the sky too, but it could be because they’re following your gaze.”
If your dog is impacted by the eclipse, things to look out for are panting, pacing, trembling, hiding or attempts to escape.
What to do if your dog gets upset:
If your dog does start showing signs of unease, experts recommend taking them to a familiar indoor space and offering comfort such as pats and rubs.
If any owners are especially worried, its worth walking the dog before the eclipse, and making sure feeding timings aren’t impacted by eclipse plans.
Definitely do not encourage your pet to look at the eclipse directly, as just with humans this can cause serious side-effects and permanent damage.
Unlike humans, dogs cannot and should not wear eclipse glasses(Image: Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire)
All in all, the eclipse is likely not to impact the behaviour of most dogs, outside of a moment of harmless confusion.
As Dr Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer of the American Kennel Club put it, “left to their own devices, dogs are probably not going to stare at the sun.”
