New York allows pet owners to be buried with their cremated companions in HUMAN cemeteries - thus becoming one of the most pet-friendly states in the country.

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the measure into law on Monday
Until now, owners could rest with their pets - but only in pet cemeteries
Only six states in the country allow pet-human burials at least partially
Massachusetts and Louisiana have considered similar legislation
New York's new law will not apply to religious and  for-profit cemeteries.

Pet owners in New York can now ask to be buried with their beloved companions - a privilege that few other states have granted.

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the measure into law on Monday. Until now, New York State allowed humans to be buried with their late pets - but only in pet cemeteries.

Now, the companions themselves can be buried in human cemeteries, as long as they have been cremated.

The new legislation only applies to non-profit cemeteries and does not concern religious cemeteries.

Cuomo, a Democrat, says many New Yorkers consider their pets to be a member of the family.

He called the previous regulation, which banned the burial of cremated pet remains with their owners in human cemeteries, 'unnecessary.'

This is the latest in a series of measures dedicated to pet owners in New York. Last year, state lawmakers passed a law allowing dogs on restaurant patios. They also are considering a ban on cat declawing.