White Cross Vets, the 18-practice group headquartered in Leeds, has introduced 'peternity leave', through which all its 220 staff are entitled to two paid days off work when they get a cat, dog or rabbit, to help them settle the animal in its new home.

The initiative was the idea of one of the practice's client care co-ordinators, who suggested it whilst she was acting as the managing director for the day, as part of White Cross Vets' 80 year anniversary celebrations. 

Managing director Tim Harrison said: "We believe we are the first veterinary practice in the UK to offer two full days paid peternity leave. Our ethos is all about caring for pets, and the first few days at home with a new addition are so special. It’s therefore essential that quality time can be dedicated to a new pet, in order to make sure they feel comfortable and safe in their new environment.

"As all of our team are all pet owners already, this time off will give them the chance to introduce and socialise any new family members with existing pets, which must be done carefully and under supervision.

"Bringing a new pet into the family takes a lot of patience and perseverance, and certain breeds or older pets can be harder to train or take longer to bond. Also there is a lot of preparation work that needs to be done in the home and garden when a young pet dog, cat or rabbit arrives, so this time off will hopefully make it easier for our team to give their new pets a safe and welcoming start in their new homes."

Other perks that White Cross Vets offers include five fully paid donation days a year to volunteer with chosen charities, a health care scheme, days off and cakes for birthdays, as well as subsidised Fitbits and gym memberships.

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