I recently lost my beloved dog, a member of our family who had been battling health complications for the past three months. Despite an intensive and exhaustive search for a definitive diagnosis, his condition took a turn for the worst and he passed away unexpectedly. My partner and I had rescued him nearly 2 years ago, and in that short span of time, he became an integral part of our lives. His sudden and traumatic passing hit us hard, leaving us emotionally and physically incapacitated for the remainder of the week. I work as a School Based Therapist for 2 public schools, supporting the mental health of children ages 7-13. I was not in a place to be able to effectively support my kids following his passing, and in my position it is important I act as a model for healthy boundaries and prioritization of caring for our own mental health. 

Despite my genuine grief, my company rejected my request to use even one day of bereavement leave, revealing a fundamental flaw in their policy - the lack of recognition for the profound bond between humans and their pet companions. Like many others, we see our pets as family. They are not just animals; they are significant life companions who fill our lives with joy, love, and unconditional friendship.

Shockingly, pets are often overlooked in bereavement leave policies, despite studies showing the intensity of grief after losing a pet can be as deep, sometimes deeper, than losing a human loved one. For instance, a recent study conducted by The Washington Post demonstrated that 91% of pet owners consider their pets as equal family members.

This omission reflects not only a deep misunderstanding of human-animal relationships but also a neglect of employees' well-being. Therefore, I am urging for the mandatory inclusion of pets in all company bereavement leave policies. Let us recognize the significant loss of a pet and provide employees with the necessary time to grieve and recover. Let alone the financial burdens that often come with a sick or dying pet. 

Please sign this petition to support this necessary change. Your voice can help countless individuals cope better with the loss of their beloved pets, contributing to their emotional well-being and at large, increasing employee's commitment to the workplace that values them and their mental health.