Pet safety during the solar eclipse

 A total solar eclipse is expected in the U.S. on Monday, April 8th, spanning from Texas to Maine. Solar eclipses result from the alignment of the new moon with the sun, leading to total, partial, or annular eclipses. Solar eclipses, occurring routinely across North America, pose risks to both humans and pets. Rare risks for pets during eclipses include skin damage and potential retinal damage. Pets should not look directly at the solar eclipse to avoid eye damage from radiation, as they may accidentally do so even when not typically looking at the sun outdoors. Pets may be drawn to the ring of sunlight visible around the edge of the moon during an eclipse. Though pets may not share humans' interest in celestial events, they can still experience anxiety or behavioral changes during eclipses. Pets may experience confusion during an eclipse due to temporary darkness during daylight hours. Human viewing parties or eclipse celebrations can also cause anxiety in pets. To minimize pets' stress during an eclipse, owners should keep them calm and confined indoors. Owners' calm behavior is crucial, as pets can mirror their reactions; thus, it's important to refrain from drawing attention to the eclipse. Avoiding pointing up or including pets in eclipse-focused events helps minimize their exposure to the phenomenon.