NY S01389

Prohibits surgical devocalization (debarking) of dogs and cats except when medically necessary to treat physical illness, disease, injury, or congenital abnormality causing or likely to cause the animal physical pain or harm.

Requires that only licensed veterinarians under New York education law article 135 may perform devocalization procedures.

Mandates veterinarians document the medical necessity of each procedure in the animal's treatment record and report the aggregate number of procedures annually to the commissioner of education by March 30th.

Establishes penalties of up to 90 days imprisonment and/or $500 fine for persons who knowingly perform illegal devocalization; veterinarians face potential license revocation or suspension.

Takes effect 90 days after becoming law; requires commissioners of agriculture and markets and education to promulgate necessary rules and regulations for enforcement.