Some dog breeders routinely debark their dogs (video)
by Shelley Frost
Debarking of dogs is a highly controversial surgical
procedure known as vocal cordectomy where the vocal cords are severed
to soften or stop the ability of a dog to bark. Some argue that
it is the inept, negligent dog guardian or breeder who chooses the
surgical path rather than investing time to train dogs not to bark.
Critics
of the procedure say it can be painful and result in many complications
for dogs. Besides the obvious outcome of a lack of verbalization,
for some dogs the ability to drink and eat can be affected.
A Better Place Rescue
in Massachusetts is advocating for House Bill 344 which would outlaw
the practice of surgically debarking dogs. The bill passed the
Massachussetts House of Representatives in a nearly unanimous vote: 150
- 1. Next, the bill goes to the Senate for approval.
Shelley Frost has served in both executive and volunteer positions at animal shelters. A co-author of Your Adopted Dog, she also produces documentaries about animal issues.
