Expert weighs in on how best to protect pets from the solar eclipse

Veterinarian Dr. Brett Levitzke says if you have a skittish pet to leave it at home during the eclipse.

Shakti Denis and Adolfo Carrion

Apr 5, 2024, 12:57 AM

Updated 165 days ago

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Monday marks a total solar eclipse that millions across the country will be keeping their eyes on the sky for – but what about pets?
Dogs and other animals get excited about plenty of things– but not the eclipse, says one veterinarian.
“They’re probably not even going to notice that it’s happening,” said Dr. Brett Levitzke, chief veterinarian of Verg. “There’s going to be a lot of people out trying to catch a glimpse of the eclipse. So that may make them a little bit nervous, may make them prone to try and run away.”
Levitzke says if you have a skittish pet to leave it at home during the eclipse. He adds that your pups will not need the same protective eyewear that humans do when the eclipse takes over the skies.
As for cats? Levitzke says there’s nothing to worry about.
“They have a mind of their own, so they probably won't be as affected as our pups,” said Levitzke.