Devocalization is a brutal procedure that involves cutting the vocal cords of a dog or cat to suppress its ability to vocalize. This inhumane procedure has been banned in Massachusetts and in many European countries.

Now, Virginia Delegate Patrick A. Hope has introduced House Bill 2195, which - if passed - would make Virginia the second state to ban devocalization.

Devocalization is an unnecessary and risky surgical procedure that steals an animal's ability to communicate. Virginia's lawmakers must vote yes on H.B. 2195 and put an end to this inhumane practice.

Image: ccbarr