It's no secret that mandatory maternity and paternity leave is a big deal in the US, at least if you listen to the political debates. I believe that Moms and Dads should be able to not only bond with their child at birth, but should be able to take them to dentist appointments and the doctor without having to sacrifice pay.
As a lifelong unmarried, childless woman, I've often been the one that worked the holidays so that others could spend time with their family. I can work after hours and on weekends when others need to take care of their kiddos. And that's okay with me - I don't begrudge folks with families; I'm happier without.
But when I have to take my cherished cat to the Vet, or need to bond with my new adopted kitten, or am grieving the loss of my pet, I want the same consideration as the Mom of a human. "It's not like it's a human being" is not a welcome phrase. My cats are more important to me than most humans; just like you, I celebrate their achievements, smile with delight over the cute things they do, and sigh with frustration when they break stuff (and they break a lot of stuff).
The United Kingdom has mandatory paid maternity and paternity leave. And almost 1 in 20 pet owners also get a benefit known as Paw-ternity leave. It ranges from a few hours to three weeks paid leave. New Zealand is also offering this benefit in many companies.
What do you think? Are we the new minority? Let's march on Washington and demand our crazy cat lady rights!
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