I just want to start by saying your dog doesn’t need eclipse glasses. Other than posing for an amusing photo-op intended for social media, there’s really no reason.

Dogs instinctively know better than to stare at the sun. They rarely look up unless it’s to follow a bird, ball, Frisbee or person that attracts their attention. If you’ve already bought eclipse glasses for your dog please don’t force them to look at the sun. They could care less about it, and on the off chance the glasses slip or aren’t well made, their eyes are as vulnerable as ours are.

Still, it’s a good idea for the pup to be inside during the eclipse. Bees have been known to swarm during these solar events and there can be other commotion like fireworks and parties.

If you’re driving to an area of totality and taking your dog, be ready for crowds. Crowded highways with traffic jams that can slow down dogs much needed bathroom breaks. Also, crowded, noisy gatherings of people viewing the event that can cause anxiety in some dogs. You know your K9 friend better than anyone. Watch for signs of anxiety in your pup as your watching the eclipse

We know that our dogs would always want to be with us, but maybe it’s kindest to leave them at home during this weeks solar eclipse.