Declare Take Your Dog Day

June 20, 2025, as Take Your Dog to Work Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and appreciate the service, companionship, loyalty and happiness pets bring to the lives of their owners; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 20, 2025, as Take Your Dog to Work Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Take Your Dog to Work Day; and WHEREAS, National Take Your Dog to Work Day, observed annually on the Friday following Father's Day, is a fun and heartwarming event designed to celebrate the bond between people and their pets; the day encourages businesses to allow employees to bring their dogs to the workplace, promoting a pet-friendly environment while also raising awareness about pet adoption; and WHEREAS, This special day was created by Pet Sitters International in 1999 as a way to highlight the positive benefits of having pets in the workplace, such as reducing stress, increasing morale, and improving overall job satisfaction; and WHEREAS, Taking dogs to work can enhance workplace dynamics by fostering a sense of camaraderie among coworkers and encouraging breaks that allow employees to recharge; studies have shown that pets, especially dogs, can help lower blood pressure and reduce feelings of anxiety, making them an excellent source of emotional support during busy workdays; and WHEREAS, In addition, the event also draws attention to the importance of adopting pets from shelters, as the day aligns with efforts to increase pet adoption rates; and WHEREAS, National Take Your Dog to Work Day serves as a reminder of the joys pets bring into our lives and the role they can play in creating a happier and healthier work environment; it is a day that combines work, fun, and compassion, offering employees and employers alike the chance to celebrate the furry companions that enrich their lives; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 20, 2025, as Take Your Dog to Work Day in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.