A Canadian teachers' union was pressed on Thursday to treat cats and dogs as dependents, and to pay for their members' pet care expenses so that Fido or Minou get fed and walked when their owner is working.

Currently, care for children or other dependents are reimbursed when members travel on union business, a society spokesperson told AFP. Proponents of the plan argue the cost of caring for pets should be too.

"Cats and dogs are people, too, you know," quipped the daily National Post.

The resolution from the Prairie Rose School Division in western Manitoba province was presented at the Society's annual general meeting, which started Thursday in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The resolution notes that "not all pets can be left alone overnight or for extended periods of time," and estimates the cost of hiring a sitter or leaving an animal at a kennel at about $15 - $20 per night.

"The member would only be reimbursed where family members are unable to assume responsibility for pet care," it adds.

The Manitoba Teachers' Society represents 13 400 teachers in the province.

AFP