HB5004 Summary

• Prohibits surgical debarking or silencing of dogs and cats except by licensed Illinois veterinarians using anesthesia, and only when medically necessary to treat illness, disease, injury, or correct congenital abnormalities causing harm or pain.

• Requires veterinarians performing debarking procedures to file written certification with the Department of Agriculture and Department of Financial and Professional Regulation containing examination date, diagnosis, supporting findings, and owner and veterinarian contact information.

• Establishes violation as a Class 3 felony punishable by fine of up to $2,500, imprisonment, or both, with additional penalties including mental health evaluation and counseling orders as determined by the court.

• Allows courts to bar convicted persons from owning or possessing animals or living with animal owners for a court-determined period and require completion of humane education and pet ownership and dog training classes.

• Requires sellers of dogs and cats to disclose whether the animal has been surgically debarked or silenced and provide the purchaser with a copy of the veterinarian certification.