TORONTO, ON. – April 3, 2024 – As the total solar eclipse approaches (April 8th), pet guardians across Toronto are seeking guidance on how to ensure the well-being of their furry companions during this celestial event. Dr. Karen Ward, Chief Veterinary Officer at Toronto Humane Society, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing pets’ safety and comfort during the eclipse.

“Leave your pet at home: If you plan on experiencing the eclipse, leave your pet safe, comfortable, and happy at home, and enjoy the eclipse with human family or friends,” advises Dr. Ward.

Toronto Humane Society offers the following tips to keep pets safe during the eclipse:

• Keep pets indoors: Strange shadows and changes in lighting during the eclipse may confuse pets. Keeping them indoors can prevent them from becoming scared or disoriented.
• Provide distractions: Keep your pets occupied with toys or treats to help divert their attention from the unusual event happening outside.
• Avoid encouraging your pet to look up or point to the sky: If you’re outside with them, refrain from encouraging pets to gaze at the eclipse.
• Return home if already out with your pet: If you’re already out with your pet during the eclipse, try to return home if possible. The sudden darkness can confuse animals and may cause them to become scared or anxious.
• Be mindful of wildlife and livestock: If you’re driving during the eclipse, be aware of wildlife and livestock on the road. The sudden darkness could cause them to behave unpredictably or stray onto the road.

Dr. Ward further highlights the potential impact of human-related activities surrounding the eclipse on pets’ well-being. “Interestingly, the primary concerns for your pet’s well-being during an eclipse may actually stem from human-related activities surrounding the event. Large crowds, travel, and loud noises from festivities can all impact your pet’s comfort. Additionally, since pets can pick up on our emotions, if you’re feeling anxious or overly excited about the eclipse, your pet may react to those emotions.”

Toronto Humane Society is committed to ensuring that all pets are safe and comfortable during this unique event. By taking a few precautions, pet guardians can help ensure that their furry companions remain happy and stress-free during the eclipse.

About Toronto Humane Society

Toronto Humane Society’s mission is to improve the lives of animals. The organization excels in all ways an animal shelter should, with industry-leading shelter care, veterinary services, animal training and behaviour consultations. Toronto Humane Society believes in the importance of the human-animal bond, finds new homes for thousands of animals and helps keep families together.

Toronto Humane Society is more than an animal shelter. They are an educational resource and support system, a leading voice in animal welfare and accessible care. The organization is also a centre of excellence, a space where best practices and boundary-pushing knowledge meet with unyielding optimism and a love for animals to create something special. Toronto Humane Society is like no other. For more information, visit www.torontohumanesociety.com.

For more information, or to arrange an interview please contact Lucas Solowey at communications@torontohumanesociety.com or call 416-392-2273 ext. 2196