NY S09445

Restricts surgical devocalization (debarking) of dogs and cats to licensed veterinarians only, and only when medically necessary to treat physical illness, disease, injury, or congenital abnormality causing pain or to preserve the animal's life.

Prohibits devocalization procedures on animals under six months of age unless necessary to prevent death or euthanasia.

Requires veterinarians to document the medical necessity for any devocalization procedure in the patient's treatment record.

Imposes civil penalties up to $1,000 and licensing sanctions on veterinarians who violate the restrictions, and makes unlicensed individuals performing the procedure guilty of a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days imprisonment or $500 fine.

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