New York to allow pets to be buried with their owners

We all love our pets; in many cases, they're part of the family. This new law, signed in by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, certainly proves that.

On Monday, Cuomo approved legislation that will allow people to be buried with their pets. There are specifics to the measure however: cremated remains of the pet may be placed with owners in one of the 1,900 cemeteries in the state. The cemetery must approve the request as well.

The law does not apply to cemeteries owned by religious organizations or societies.

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Three years ago, a similar law was approved: pet cemeteries may allow cremated remains of owners to be placed with their pets.

Cuomo said this legislation comes from New Yorkers identifying as loyal pet owners. "For many New Yorkers, their pets are members of the family," he said. "This legislation will roll back this unnecessary regulation and give cemeteries the option to honor the last wishes of pet lovers across New York."

George Webster, President of the New York State Association of Cemeteries, acknowledges the important bond between pet and owner. He released a statement on Monday, stating, "From companion animals to retired military service dogs, this new law honors the memory of the special relationships that exist between New Yorkers and their pets."