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
OVMA Position Statement – Debarking of Dogs
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)
