What Is Debarking And Why Should It Be Illegal In Utah?

Utah and many other places consider pets to be family members which is why it's so surprising the debarking is still legal in many states.  

I had no clue what this was until yesterday and I am actually horrified at the prospect. Debarking is a surgical procedure which “trims” the vocal cords in dogs, Dogster said. It essentially “softens” the bark. In some cases, depending on the amount taken, there will be no bark effectively rendering your dog mute.  

Now, I know better than anyone how annoying dogs can be. I have three in my home including a corgi whose bark is very loud. Our neighbors have some dogs too, making the fence a really annoying place to be during certain parts of the day.  

However, I could never imagine taking her vocal cords away, no matter how loud she is. Instead, bark collars, training, and getting her used to sounds is what I have implemented.  

Utah still legalizes this practice but a student at Salt Lake Community College is hoping to have that changed. The Globe said that corgi owner Teresa Jack adopted her dog, and he had been debarked. Jack said the dog suffers from difficulties eating and drinking, and of course communicating.  

Jack had hoped to get this practice banned in Utah during the 2024 General Session but was opposed by groups like the American Kennel Club. The bill named Watson’s Law after her corgi did not pass.  

Though this particular bill didn’t pass, there could be more attempts in the future and hopefully that will protect more Utah dogs.  

Housing is a big reason why debarking has become an issue since landlords can require debarking before allowing a tenant to bring in a dog. This practice not only steals the literal voice of dogs but is simply inhumane to any true pet lover.