Debarking

Venticulocordectomy, the veterinary procedure of debarking a dog, involves removing some of the vocal cord tissue during an operation which is done either through the mouth or by cutting directly into the larynx. It does not actually result in totally removing the dog’s ability to bark, but rather brings about a reduction in volume and intensity. The result is a more muffled, less noticeable bark. The reality is not usually so straight forward though. Most dogs will end up with a hoarse, often wheezy sound when they try to bark, as well as be at risk of many potential short and long term complications that can cause much distress and even require more surgery in future. veterinary bodies and animal welfare organizations also put forward their own policies on debarking – and the majority are either totally against it, or do not approve of it unless under extreme medical circumstances.