OVMA 420 Bronte Street South, Suite 205, Milton, Ontario L9T 0H9
T. 905.875.0756 or 1.800.670.1702 (toll-free) F. 905.875.0958 or 1.877.482.5941 (toll-free) info@ovma.org www.ovma.org
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Debarking of Dogs
P o sitio n Statem ent – OVM A
OVMA discourages surgical debarking of dogs unless reasonable efforts have been made to
modify the dog's behaviour, those efforts have been unsuccessful, and the animal is facing
euthanasia.
Background:
Debarking a dog may not correct the problem and may in fact create a worse-sounding bark due
to the creation of scar tissue. If a dog is barking excessively, there is likely a behavioural problem
which should be addressed before a surgical solution is considered.
(February 5, 2014 Board)
