Devocalization--cutting vocal cords just to stifle a dog's or cat's voice--is an act of animal cruelty that's been kept under the radar for far too long. Those who have animals devocalized and those who perform it for them rarely disclose it. They know devocalization is widely considered inhumane. And it's easy to hide: Unlike cropped ears and docked tails, cut vocal cords are not visible.
Devocalization is risky no matter how skilled or experienced the veterinarian. Devocalized animals may struggle to breathe, choke on food, and cough persistently the rest of their lives. Or they may die an agonizing death.
Because there's no benefit for the animal, not even assurance of a home, devocalization is also inhumane and unethical.
That's why legislation is pending to ban this act of cruelty in New York State. And it's why animal shelters, concerned veterinarians, animal behavior experts and other caring people support it.
Devocalization is risky no matter how skilled or experienced the veterinarian. Devocalized animals may struggle to breathe, choke on food, and cough persistently the rest of their lives. Or they may die an agonizing death.
Because there's no benefit for the animal, not even assurance of a home, devocalization is also inhumane and unethical.
That's why legislation is pending to ban this act of cruelty in New York State. And it's why animal shelters, concerned veterinarians, animal behavior experts and other caring people support it.
