Where Is Debarking Illegal?

In the United States, devocalization is illegal in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Warwick, Rhode Island.

Is debarking legal in the US?

Debarking is banned in the United Kingdom, but Massachusetts and New Jersey are the only U.S. states to have outlawed it. That said, many veterinarians won't perform the procedure, even if it's legal in their state.

Does debarking hurt a dog?

Debarking, or devocalization, is an invasive surgical procedure that involves removing a large amount of laryngeal tissue. It involves a great deal of postoperative pain. Because this procedure is unnecessary and inherently cruel, many veterinarians condemn it and refuse to perform it.