Lawmaker push to ban dog devocalization

BOSTON, Mass., (WPRI) - Some local lawmakers fight to end a common pet practice that some say is inhumane, dog devocalization.

The SPCA and Massachusetts lawmakers are now taking steps to keep dogs barking and howling, they're proposing a ban on de-vocalizing cats and dogs.

Dr. E.J. Finocchio, the President of RISPCA says the surgery is not cruel if done by a licensed veterinarian, he also says it's no more cruel than ear cropping, tail docking or declawing a cat.

But one Bay State, State Representative considers the procedure inhumane, entering a bill that would ban it, unless there's a medical reason.

Veterinarians snip parts of the vocal cords, not muting the animals sounds, but changing and minimizing the tone.

While Dr. Finocchio considers most devocalizing cases unnecessary, he says its important to weigh the options.