How To Keep Your Pet Safe During The Eclipse In New York

There have been plenty of warnings on how we can keep ourselves safe during the eclipse but do we need to do anything for our pets?

The total solar eclipse will be passing over the United States on Monday.  Here in New York, most of the state will be in the path of totality, meaning that we will have the best view of the event.

Read More: Total Solar Eclipse - Where To Watch It In Western New York |

People have had plenty of warnings

There have been plenty of warnings and reminders about how to stay safe during the eclipse for people.  Obviously, we want to be sure not to look directly at the sun.  It's something we've been warned about since we were little kids.

You shouldn't even look at the eclipse through your phone.  It could damage both your phone and your own eyes.

Read More: Homeland Security Warnings For Eclipse With New York State Vistor |

You shouldn't wear your eclipse glasses while you drive.  Don't stop on the side of the road to watch the eclipse, it could cause traffic problems.

The list goes on and on.

What about pets?

People have plenty of warnings, but what about pets?  Can you bring them along if you plan to watch in a park?  I know it sounds ridiculous to say, but do they need eclipse glasses?  And if they do, where in the heck do you get eclipse glasses for a pet?

Here are some do's and don'ts for pets during the eclipse

Forbes recently put together a list of do's and don'ts for pets and their owners during the eclipse.

Glasses

No, your pet does not need eclipse glasses.  They aren't normally inclined to look directly at the sun and probably won't do it during the eclipse, so they won't need special glasses at all.

They could confuse it for a storm

If your pet is sensitive to storms and tends to get worked up during them, you might want to just keep an eye on them during the event.  Researchers believe that the sudden diminished sunlight could confuse them into believing that a storm is coming.

The biggest problem could be the crowds

The sun probably won't affect them.  The darkness probably won't be a huge concern.  However, for those of us in the path of totality, the biggest issue could be crowds.  Some are estimating that hundreds of thousands may flock to the path of totality to see this once-in-a-lifetime event (the last time this happened in New York was 1925).  So there could be more people around you if you choose to be at an event like that.  Experts suggest if you're going to do that, leave your pet at home.  They will be much more comfortable in your home (and probably safer).

They're encouraging people with dogs that choose to bring them out to be sure to have them on a leash so they cannot run off, but if they do, be sure they are microchipped so they can be returned when they're found.