Lawmakers consider debarking ban

BOSTON (WPRI) - Massachusetts lawmakers are considering a controversial bill that would ban the devocalization of dogs unless it's a medical necessity.

Debarking is a procedure where the vet snips the vocal cords of a dog to make the bark quiet or mute altogether.

Those who are against debarking say it is cruel and can cause health issues with a dog. After the procedure, dogs can have troubling swallowing and grow scar tissue which causes respiratory distress.

Groups that support debarking say it should be a last resort to quiet an overly noisy animal.

Most vets will not perform the procedure, even though it is currently legal. The Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association says it deplores debarking for an owner's convenience.