Lisa Boyer

Dear Committee Members: I am a licensed veterinarian in the state of NH and have been practicing for 23 years. Twenty + years ago, declawing cats was more in favor. It is already strongly discouraged by the AVMA and veterinarians are well versed in the complications that can occur. Many of us consider it unecessary and will refuse to the this procedure. I cannot even remember the last time myself or any of my colleagues has been asked to declaw a cat. In the RARE case of being asked to perform this surgery, I know very few who would do this except if absolutely medically necessary. Regardless, any surgical procedure is a MEDICAL decision and should not be legislated at this level. It would be difficult and inexpedient to enforce. I firmly believe that this is not a real problem in our state and therefore, the bill is unecessary.