NY allows people to be buried with pets

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs measure into law

ALBANY, N.Y. – The state of New York will now allow people to be buried with the cremated remains of their pets.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the measure into law on Monday.

Cemeteries wouldn't have to offer the option, and religious cemeteries would be specifically forbidden from doing so.

Cuomo, a Democrat, says many New Yorkers consider their pets to be members of the family, and say the previous regulation banning the burial of cremated pet remains with their human companions was "unnecessary."

The proposal is the latest in a series of measures honoring the bond between human and beast in New York.

State lawmakers passed a law last year allowing dogs on restaurant patios. They also are considering a ban on cat declawing.