Swiggy expands definition of parenthood to include pet parents

Swiggy has rolled out the 'Paw-ternity Policy' for pet parents on the occasion of National Pet Day, which is observed on April 11 every year.

The initiative is designed to provide comprehensive support to employees who are pet parents, the company said.

"We understand that parenthood comes in various forms,” Swiggy said in a statement. “Building on our gender-neutral parental policy introduced in 2020, which provides substantial paid leave for primary and secondary caregivers, in addition to bonding leaves, and time off for adoption, surrogacy, miscarriage and IVF, we are now expanding our definition of parenthood to include pet parents as well.”


“And that’s why, starting today, we’re announcing the Swiggy Paw-ternity Policy for all full-time employees," the company said.

Employees will receive an additional paid day off (in addition to their annual leave entitlement) on the day they bring their pet home, to help them settle in. Pet parents may also opt for work-from-home during the settling-in period.

Pet parents can also use their casual or sick leave to attend to the needs of their pets. Whether it’s for a routine vaccination or accompanying a sick or injured pet to a veterinary appointment, the policy allows employees to take the time off they need to care for their pets.

Further, the bereavement policy will also cover pets, providing employees with the time they need to grieve and recover from the loss.