Swiggy launches ‘paw-ternity’ policy, offers pet parents in the company additional leaves

Swiggy has introduced a new policy and additional leaves for pet parents. (Representational)

Food delivery and quick commerce giant Swiggy introduced a ‘Paw-ternity Policy’ on National Pet Day, that aims to offer comprehensive support to the companies employees who are pet parents.

Girish Menon, Chief Human Resource Officer at Swiggy, in a press release, stated, "At Swiggy, we continually strive to create a workplace culture that values and supports our employees in every aspect of their lives. With the introduction of the Swiggy Paw-ternity Policy, we are extending our commitment to inclusivity by recognizing and honoring the unique responsibilities of pet parenthood."

Under the new policy, introduced on April 11, full-time employees will benefit from several key provisions:

1. New Pet/Adoption Leave: Employees welcoming a new pet will receive an additional paid day off, in addition to their annual leave entitlement. This leave aims to give pet parents the time they need to help their new companions settle into their homes. During this period, employees may also choose to work from home to provide comfort and support to their new pets.

2. Sick Leave: Recognising the importance of attending to the health needs of pets, the Swiggy Paw-ternity Policy allows pet parents to utilise their casual or sick leave for routine vaccination or accompanying a sick or injured pet to a veterinary appointment.

3. Bereavement Leave: Saying goodbye to a pet can be a deeply emotional and challenging experience. Swiggy will now offer bereavement leave to employees grieving the loss of a pet.

The Swiggy Paw-ternity Policy builds upon the foundation laid by the company's gender-neutral parental policy introduced in 2020. This policy provides paid leave for primary and secondary caregivers, bonding leaves, and time off for various family-related circumstances, including adoption, surrogacy, miscarriage, and IVF treatments.