Surgical Silencing Of Pets Legislation Passes Assembly

For the second year in a row, the Assembly passed a bill to restrict surgical devocalization procedures on dogs and cats, which Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski (D-New City) introduced. The legislation, initially introduced and passed by the Assembly in 2012, would permit the procedure only in cases where it is medically necessary to treat or relieve a physical injury or illness.

“This is a cruel and inhumane procedure that is being utilized to silence an animal’s voice and we must put an end to it,” said Zebrowski.  “Most devocalization surgeries provide no medical benefit and are done solely for the convenience of the owner.”

Devocalization removes a dog or cat’s vocal cords with a surgical procedure that can lead to serious long-term respiratory and throat ailments for the animals. It silences communication between the animal and owner or another animal. Zebrowski said devocalization does not address the reason for the excessive barking or noise.

“Devocalizing an animal is not the only solution to stop excessive barking,” said Zebrowski. “There are safe alternative methods of modifying behavior such as training collars and behaviorists,”

Veterinarians must include document the medical necessity for the procedure in the animal’s treatment record and provide the number of procedures performed to the state commissioner of education.  Violations would be class B misdemeanors with a sentence of up to 90 days in jail or a fine up to $500. Veterinarians violating the bill could have their license revoked or suspended. A companion bill has been introduced in the State Senate and is currently before the Agriculture Committee.