Philadelphia Eagles QB Michael Vick Admits to Owning a Dog

By Bryn Swartz
Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

Three years ago, Michael Vick was released from prison after serving a sentence for running an illegal dog fighting ring that threatened to ruin both his career and his life.

And now, he’s the proud owner of a dog, like millions of other Americans.

Yesterday Vick had been asked by Philadelphia Eagles reporters if he owned a dog, the question stemming from a tweet last week where a box of dog biscuits showed up on his kitchen table next to his daughter.

He declined to answer the question but gave an answer to reporters today.

Here was his original answer: “I’m here to strictly talk about football,” he said Monday. “What goes on in my personal life is not to be talked about. What’s most important right now is the Philadelphia Eagles and getting a win this Sunday.”

But here was his statement earlier today:

“I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family’s decision to care for a pet. As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God’s creatures with kindness and respect. Our pet is well cared for and loved as a member of our family.”

Vick says that owning a dog is a way for him to prove that he has changed his life since he was released from prison. He has also worked with the Humane Society to spread the news about cruelty to animals. In fact, some have said that Vick, and what happened with his dog fighting ring, is the best thing to ever happen to illegal dog fighting, as ridiculous as that may sound.

“I’m not a psychopath. I’m not crazy. I’m a human being,” Vick once told The Associated Press about wanting to own a dog. “What happened in my past and what I did in the culture I grew up in doesn’t shape and mold me as the person I am now.”

There are still some though who will never forgive Vick no matter what he does. I’m not one of them, but I am surprised that he is allowed to own a dog again. Think of the most extreme alcoholic you can imagine. Even when they’re sober for years and years (if they can get to that point), it probably wouldn’t make sense for them to ever drink again. The temptation is just too extreme. That’s what I think about for Vick owning a dog.

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