New York City may soon allow residents to use paid sick leave to care for pets and service animals, thanks to legislation proposed by Council Member Shaun Abreu. The bill seeks to promote health for both pets and their owners without increasing the existing state-mandated 40 to 56 hours of annual paid sick leave.
“When you take care of your animals, you’re taking care of yourself, too,” said Abreu, highlighting the mental and physical health benefits of pet ownership, such as reduced stress, lower blood pressure, and increased social interaction. Studies cited by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirm these benefits, noting that pets can combat loneliness and boost mood.
The legislation could also address overcrowding in city shelters by encouraging adoptions and preventing pet surrenders, said Katy Hansen of Animal Care Centers of NYC. “Anything we can do to keep pets and families together is going to help shelters and people,” she added.
Pet owners like Andrew O’Shanick support the measure, calling pets “super important parts of people’s families.” However, not everyone agrees. Dog owner Mieke Vandersall expressed skepticism, suggesting the city should focus on broader mental health initiatives instead.
Introduced in October, the bill is under committee review. If passed, it could offer New Yorkers greater flexibility in using their sick leave while emphasizing the importance of pets in family life.
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