Under the new law — called Logan’s Law after a dog that underwent the controversial surgery but was later abandoned– anyone in the state who cuts or removes an animal’s vocal chords for nonmedical reasons may be punished by fines and up to five years in prison.

Supporters of the new measure say it is more important for pet owners to understand the needs and motivations behind their pets’ making noise.

The silencing surgery may suit the needs of the owner, but not the health and welfare of the animal.

California is considering a law that would make it illegal for landlords to require devocalization of dogs and declawing of cats as a condition for allowing pets.

Source: reuters