Rhode Island Considers Debarking BanRhode Island Debarking Ban, debarking, dog, cat, veterinarianThe Rhode Island Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee will consider a bill on Feb. 15, 2012, that would ban debarking procedures for nonmedical reasons.The Rhode Island Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee will consider a bill that seeks to ban debarking procedures for nonmedical reasons.newslineRhode Island Considers Debarking BanPosted: Feb. 8, 2012, 1:20 p.m. EST The Rhode Island Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee will consider a bill on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012, that would ban debarking procedures for nonmedical reasons. Senate Bill 2193 would impose a fine on any person who surgically debarks or silences a dog or cat unless a veterinarian licensed in Rhode Island has filed a written certification with the applicable animal control officer stating that the surgery is “medically necessary to treat or relieve an illness, disease, or injury, or correct a congenital abnormality that is causing or will cause the dog or cat medical harm or pain.” The maximum fine would be $1,000. A person convicted of violating the law could also be barred from owning or possessing any animals, or living on the same property with someone who owns or possesses animals, for a period of time deemed appropriate by the court. The person could also be required to take humane education, pet ownership and dog training classes as ordered by the court. The bill would also require a person or business selling a dog or cat that has been debarked to provide the purchaser with a copy of the aforementioned veterinarian certificate. Both the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Kennel Club support debarking procedures as a final alternative to behavior modifications. The AKC urged dog breeders and owners to contact members of the committee and urge them to vote against the measure.<HOME>http://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/images/vpn-tab-image/dog-barking-250px.jpg2/8/2012 12:20 PM
