On Wednesday Massachusetts will become the first U.S. state to ban the “debarking” surgery that devocalizes dogs and cats. Under the new law, 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. The silencing surgery may suit the needs of the owner, but not the health and welfare of the animal.  Supporters of the new measure say it is more important for pet owners to understand the needs and motivations behind their pets’ making noise. For complete story click HERE.