Written by Alexandra Michelska
New York (Reuters) – New York City Council is scheduled to study legislation that allows New York residents to take a paid satisfactory leave to care for their pets and service animals.
Council member Sean Abro, who sponsored the bill, said that change could enhance the health of pets and humans.
He said: “When you take care of your animals, you take care of yourself as well,” citing long -distance walking with dogs, social communication with other pet owners, and the benefits of mental health.
The leave will be included in the leave imposed by New York State, as companies must provide up to 40 or 56 hours of paid sick leave annually, depending on its size.
“We do not give any additional days,” Abro said. “We just say, let's give individuals flexibility to use this time as they like.”
Studies cited by the US Department of Health and Humanitarian Services have shown that interaction with animals reduces the levels of tension -related cortisol and reduces blood pressure. The researchers also found that animals can reduce lonely, increase social support, and enhance the mood of the individual.
It is estimated that 68% of American families have a pet, according to the ministry.
“I think it is a great idea,” said Andrew Ushanik, who was walking with his dog recently at St. Nicholas Park in Harlem. “I think pets are very important parts of people's families. If something happens, unfortunately, for a pet that requires additional care, attention or something like that, I think it is important to be able to be there for them.”
Katie Hansen, director of marketing and communications at animal care centers in New York City, said the new legislation can prevent the delivery of pets and increase the adoptions, which improves the situation in the city shelters.
“The shelters throughout the country are full of animals,” Hansen said. “Anything we can do to keep pets and families together will help shelters and help people.”
Not everyone agreed. The owner of the dogs, Mickey Vanders, said that the city should find more effective ways to help its residents improve their mental health and find homes to house pets.
“If we are really worried about the pressure we are exposed to … I think we need to pay attention to these problems, not just adding an animal that requires a lot of time and energy.” “I think it's a little strange.”
The legislation was submitted in October, and it is now under consideration by one of the committees.
