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Panel endorses ban on surgical devocalization of dogs; owners and breeders oppose measure
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Summary
The committee advanced SB 707, which would prohibit surgical clipping of dogs' vocal cords; veterinarians and animal‑welfare advocates supported the ban while breeder organizations and some owners said the procedure can keep animals in homes. The bill was reported 17‑3.
Senator Diggs described SB 707 to prohibit surgical procedures that clip or remove portions of dogs' vocal folds to reduce barking, citing the American Veterinary Medical Association’s discouraging position and a membership survey indicating most Virginia veterinarians do not perform the procedure.
Proponents said the surgery is widely condemned, often ineffective and potentially inhumane; Susan Seward of the Virginia Veterinary Medical Association said more than 97% of surveyed members would not perform the procedure except for congenital or disease reasons. Delegate Clark (speaking in support) and other proponents said banning the practice protects animal welfare.
Opponents—including Nancy Fisk, president of the Virginia Federation of Dog Clubs and Breeders, and other owners and breeders—argued that when performed correctly the procedure merely 'softens' barking and can keep dogs in homes that otherwise might surrender or euthanize them. Fisk said a local veterinarian in Virginia performs the procedure and has a long wait list of owners who, she said, rely on it to keep pets with families.
Public testimony included online comments from Heidi Kroske of the Virginia Breeder Owners Alliance urging the committee to vote against the bill and warning of unintended consequences for pet owners.
After discussion from committee members, proponents and opponents, the committee voted to report SB 707 (motion carried; vote recorded as 17‑3). The bill will proceed to the next legislative step.
