NEW YORK (WCBS/CBS Newspath/WKRC) – A proposed amendment to New York City’s paid sick leave law could allow pet owners to use sick leave to care for sick service or companion animals. The amendment, known as “Introduction 1089,” is sponsored by City Councilman Sean Abreu.
“This does not impose any additional costs on employers,” Abreu said. “We want people to feel safe and able to care for their animals.”
Abreu emphasized that the amendments are aimed at improving mental health in the city. “We need to do more about the mental health crisis,” he said. “There is a resource that is directly available to us and that is pet ownership.”
Jasmine Hollis, local events coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society, highlighted the mental health benefits of owning a pet. “Just petting a dog or cat can really improve a person’s mood,” Hollis says. “Research shows that even just making eye contact with a cat, dog, or other pet releases the love hormone oxytocin.”
“New York already has a hustle culture,” said Ron Benjamin, a Chelsea resident who owns a pet named Summer. “Giving people a little more peace of mind that they can take care of their animals if they need to can be good for the workforce overall.”
Upper West Side resident Jenna Mastellone also expressed her support, pointing out the importance of documentation. “I see no reason not to do it,” Mastellone said. “You’re going to need documentation from a veterinarian or something.”
As the city considers the amendment, pet owners like Daniel, who calls his dog Lila his “fur baby,” will have legal options to care for their pets without worrying about work obligations. We may soon receive confirmation.
