Local Assemblymen Vote To Ban The Practice Of Devocalization of Animals

Assemblyman Andrew Raia (R,I,C-East Northport) recently voted to ban the practice of devocalization of animals. Raia was joined by the entire Long Island Minority Conference delegation in voting to outlaw this unnecessary and cruel procedure. Devocalization is a surgical procedure on the vocal chords or larynx of an animal with the intention of silencing, debarking or bark softening. 

“Pets are members of our families that we develop life long bonds with,” said Raia. “It’s a basic moral principle that harm should not be done to anyone or anything for the mere convenience of another. A malicious procedure like devocalizing dogs and cats for the sake of accommodation has no place in our society.”

“Devocalization of pets for the sole purpose of convenience is unconscionable. Owners of dogs and cats have a responsibility to care for the well being of their pet. This bill not only stops people from removing the vocal cords of their dog or cat for non-medical reasons, but also sends a strong message that animal abuse and mistreatment has never and will never be tolerated in Nassau County,” said Assemblyman Brian Curran (Lynbrook-21st AD).

“For many families, cats and dogs are more than just pets. To devocalize them without medical necessity would be inhumane. Our pets show us unconditional love and to violate that trust simply for convenience is tragic,” said Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick).

“Devocalizing cats and dogs is a cruel, dangerous procedure that should only be considered in the case of medical emergencies,” said Assemblyman Al Graf (R,C,I Holbrook). “We hold a deep bond with our pets and they should not be put in harm’s way just to make our homes a bit quieter. I commend the sponsors of this bill for standing up for animals and thank all of the pet owners who provide loving homes for cats and dogs on Long Island.”

“Devocalization of a dog or cat isn’t just a short-term fix, but can create long-term consequences for an animal. Many view their pets as part of the family, and to put them through a potentially life-threatening surgery without medical cause is cruel. I thank my colleagues on behalf of cat and dog lovers everywhere,” said Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci (R,C,WF,I-Huntington Station).