I as well as many other members  of our community have found sanction and love within that of a 4 legged companion. In some households, pets are not just pets, they're a significant part of ones family, life, and being. They hold a special place in our hearts.... they are our children when children can't be obtained. They are our love when it can't be found. They are our family when we are abandoned. We are their family when they've been surrendered. We're the savior to one another. Giving that love and affection to another living soul and obtaining it back,  is considered that of family. Having the time to grieve and remember the life you shared with another living being is something that should be considered, regardless if they are human or not, they are still a living, breathing, feeling, loving companion.  

The right to obtain benefits such as time off, paid LOA and or sick time to mentally handle and process the loss of a family member, pet or not, should be honored.