Animal rights activists revealed on Tuesday that a new Massachusetts law will prohibit so-called "debarking" procedures on dogs and cats.

The Boston Globe has reported that the ban the state Legislature in Boston enacted on surgical de-vocalization (vocal cord cutting by a veterinarian) will go into effect on Wednesday.

The newspaper further said that Gov. Deval Patrick signed the bill into law April 22.

Beth Birnbaum, a member of the organization, the Coalition to Protect and Rescue Pets, that initially filed the bill, said, "Beacon Hill should be congratulated."

The Globe said that the law bans the de-vocalization of dogs and cats except in cases of medical necessity.

According to the Globe, De-vocalization may carry a penalty of up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to $2,500.

Debarking procedures can be dangerous for pets. Scar tissue in the throat can make breathing difficult, and can lead to a lifetime of wheezing, coughing, and choking, Birnbaum said. (With inputs from Agencies)