Lucas at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
A Nose for News has Moved!
(Please note that I have a new link and more blogs at
blog.caninekingdom.com/ )
Michael Vick, the disgraced Atlanta Falcon’s star quarterback, walked out of prison last week, serving some 17 months after having been convicted of gambling charges, and most notably, operating a major dog fighting operation hidden behind the walls of his exclusive Virginia estate.
Before his sentencing, as part of his plea agreement, Vick admitted to taking part in the murders of several fighting dogs that just weren’t ‘up to snuff.’ Vick’s Bad Newz Kennel had a policy of eliminating these ‘inferior’ dogs by hanging, electrocution or drowning. Those talented hands that brilliantly passed the pigskin on the gridiron, brutally killed his own dogs with equal determination and dexterity.
It was headline news for months in 2007. Now, it’s headline news again – at least in dog circles – and it shouldn’t be. As far as I’m concerned, he did his time, still has more coming – monitored work release and then probation, as with any other criminal. He owes more money than he has, his future with the Falcons is kaput – with the NFL it’s uncertain, and if he has a conscience, he has an awful lot to mull over. I really never wanted to think of this man again – but thanks to Wayne Pacelle, the president of the Human Society of the United States (HSUS), I must.
Pacelle had visited Vick at Fort Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary a few times. The self proclaimed savior of the Vick pit bulls is considering an alliance with Vick and the HSUS. Pacelle envisions a fund raising inner city country-wide tour with the so-called rehabilitated Michael Vick, center stage, speaking to impoverished youth about all that is bad about dog fighting. He returned with these thought that are posted on the HSUS web site.
“I knew it would be controversial, but I decided it was the right thing to engage with Michael and give him a chance to participate in our anti-dogfighting efforts. We at the HSUS are about change, even the hard cases.”
Pacelle appears to be so forgiving, so willing to work with this man – Vick was a “hard case” but he deserves another chance. Let’s cut back to the year 2007 when Vick was first arrested and his stable of over 50 fighting dogs were seized. Virginia law enforcement officials parceled out the dogs to local shelters where they could be cared for until the courts decided upon their fate. Pacelle immediately hopped onto the media circus train and demanded that Vick have the book thrown at him. He also implored all animal lovers to open up their checkbooks and send the HSUS lots of money so that the Vick dogs would be properly cared for. Soon, the New York Times reported that HSUS was not, in fact, caring for the dogs. HSUS president Wayne Pacelle told the Times that HSUS is recommending that government officials “put down” (kill) the dogs rather than adopt them out to suitable homes. I suppose Pacelle and the HSUS did not think that those dogs were true “hard cases.”
Many people who donate to the Humane Society of the United States don’t realize – probably due to its slick ad campaigns – that it is not affiliated with any humane societies or shelters. In fact, according to an Atlanta WSBTV investigative report, less than 4 percent of its budget – is passed over to legitimate pet shelters in the form of grants. In 2007, the year of the Vick case, HSUS hauled in about $120 million through its appeals to the public. About $112 million of that money wound up in the hands of lobbyists, politicians, activist groups, ad and public relations agencies, and top ranking HSUS employees in the form of salaries, benefits and expenses. Pacelle has shifted over the group’s major emphasis from pets to pro-vegan, anti-meat, anti-dairy, breeder legislation and of course keeping up a high visibility profile whenever a major puppy mill is raided. What happens to all of those seized dogs is not the problem or concern of the HSUS. While the HSUS receives the glory of the bust through the media, the burden of care of the puppy mill victims is laid at the steps of local animal shelters, that are often already struggling to care for more animals than they can afford.
Does this constitute fraud? I really don’t know, I’m not a lawyer or a judge. But I can smell a rat. Seems like the State of Louisiana did too. In post Katrina days, officials wanted to know what happened to the $34 million that Pacelle raised to reunite all those poor lost pets with their displaced families. An investigation was launched and then suspended after Pacelle opened his HSUS wallet and started doling out some funds to the still struggling state of Louisiana.
Back to the Vick prison interviews as told by Pacelle in his blog and at the HSUS website.
“Sitting with Michael at Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary, I saw a man who, if he had the resolve, could do powerful and persuasive outreach to at-risk youth and steer them away from dogfighting. He told me he saw dogfighting when we he was a boy, and from there, he came to accept the activity and to get involved. Nobody was there to step in and pull him out of that morass, and he obviously didn’t have the strength to get away from it himself.”
Gosh, this sounds like the makings of a movie script – a tale of turmoil, success, a horrid downspin and redemption. Now I don’t know who is pulling whose tail here but this isn’t exactly how Vick’s life unfolded.
Vick did grow up in the projects of Newport News, Virginia. But he was one of the more fortunate kids. He seemed to blossom in a mud puddle. His Dad, who worked long hours at the Naval Base, found time to play with his kids and the game was football.
In an article published in September 2000, while his son Michael was at Virginia Tech, Michael Boddie, Vick’s dad, told the university’s Collegiate Times: “Ever since he learned to throw a football, he’s always liked throwing a ball…It’s just in his blood.” He added that his son had never gotten into trouble or … involved with drugs, adding: “I like the way he has developed, not only as a player but as a person.”
Vick himself has said that sports saved him from the undesirable elements of the project. He told Sporting News magazine in an interview published April 9, 2001: “Sports kept me off the streets…. It kept me from getting into what was going on, the bad stuff. Lots of guys I knew have had bad problems.”
Actually, there were no reports of dog fighting activities in those projects during Vick’s formative years. It appears that Vick’s dog fighting activities began after he joined the NFL in 2001. He should have been old enough at that point to have known right from wrong. He overcame those projects as a kid and chose to revisit them as a successful adult.
Despite incredible talent on the field, and his own personal mettle, which catapulted him to football star status, in a few short years, his private world spiraled downward. His wealth and renown grew as the number of bad choices he made off-field became glaringly apparent to friends, team mates, coaches and endorsement companies.
So, who’s kidding whom here? Don’t really know.
Here’s what I can surmise though. Vick has a public relations problem to tackle. What he wants more than anything else now is to receive the blessings and vindication of the NFL. He wants to get back in the game. If it means returning to the ghettos and speaking with kids in the projects about the horrors of dog fighting he’ll do it – whatever it takes. Is he really repentant? I don’t know. I just want him to go away.
What’s Pacelle want out of the ‘Michael Vick Ghetto Tour?’ That’s an easy question. He wants money to pour into the HSUS – whatever it takes. I’d like Pacelle and the HSUS to go away too.
Against all odds, thanks to real animal shelters, who stepped forward, the Vick dogs have been rehabilitated and now live in homes. They are called the Vicktory Dogs.
Kudos to the real people and organizations that made it possible – who believed these dogs deserved a second chance and prove to shelters throughout the country that pit bulls can be rehabilitated despite their past abuse:
Bad Rap – a California pit bull rescue group – the first group to some forward and petition the courts to allow for professional evaluation of the seized Vick fighting dogs – Bad Rap refused to agree with PETA, which called the Vick dogs ‘ticking time bombs’ urging for prompt euthanasia, and the HSUS which also called for their disposal. Bad Rap was also responsible for the rehabilitation of many of the Vick pit bulls
ASPCA – coordinated the evaluation of the Vick dogs bringing together renowned dog experts and behaviorists.
The American Justice system and the court appointed guardians of the Vick dogs who heeded the advice of the team of evaluators and allowed for the rehabilitation of the Vick dogs.
Best Friends – a Utah rescue group that took part in the rehabilitation of some of the Vick dogs
All of the un-named volunteers who spent hours with these dogs – to all the volunteers who opened their homes to the Vick dogs – providing foster homes and a ‘normal’ environment.
Please visit http://www.BadRap.org and http://www.BestFriends.org to see some of those happy pit bull faces and meet the true animal advocates who were down in the ditches with these dogs helping them make the transition into a sane world where people love dogs.
I am sure there were many more involved in this rehabilitation project. Forgive me for any omissions. Please leave a comment below and I will be sure to add you to the list of hero volunteers – the ones who make a difference every day to unfortunate canines.
Do you have an abused dog tale to tell? Have you seen the power of recuperation through love, respect and care? I’d like to hear from you.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
Nose for News 
May 26, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Very insightful, I learned a lot. Your right he did his time, but can you imagine you work for the HSUS and really want to stop dog fighting and find out one morning you have to work with Vick.
May 26, 2009 at 4:35 pm
Hello unemployment line!
Marilyn
May 26, 2009 at 10:56 pm
Hey Marilyn,
Love this blog. Here’s another blog that we did about Leo who’s a therapy dog now. We at Our Pack have worked with other dogs from cases very similar to the Vick case and some of those dogs are also therapy dogs.
I think Leo should get more notoriety for doing what he’s doing as a therapy dog than Vick is getting for doing what he did. I know, I know…..
Here’s some footage of Leo http://packrescue.blogspot.com/2009/05/thanks-nbc-nightly-news.html#links
Here’s Leo’s page http://www.ourpack.org/leo.html
Our website http://www.ourpack.org
May 27, 2009 at 5:35 pm
Excellent blog! Thanks!
I have been making a documentary on Pit Bulls since 04. I went to the Vick sentencing, one striking thing I found was even the people who are pro Vick, the ones I interviewed, agreed what he did was wrong, yet they felt his sentence was too harsh! Unless you really have compassion and empathy for dogs I do not think anyone will really get it.
HSUS is like the Red Cross making millions and keeping most of it. Vick was order to pay out $980,000 for the dogs to be cared for. I wonder how much money HSUS has given to the families that have taken in the Vick dogs. I’m sure not a cent.
You bring up a good point about the people behind the scenes who ACTUALLY helped the dogs by working with them! People who do not get their hands dirty so to speak, with dogs are suspect. ANYONE can have an opinion and raise money etc…It’s people who have legitimate knowledge of dog behavior and training and people who work with dogs that need to help Vick. All Vick will learn is how to rebrand himself, and then all his “people” will tell us Pit Bull Advocates, “look he’s better” “leave him alone”. However I join in your suspicion. Vick has had ample time to apologize to the dogs without any nudging from people like the likes of Paccelli. he has not done that. Dogs deserve respect.
There have been more dogs in history responsible for great things than football players.
Dogs are conduits of the truth, you cannot mess with them without getting caught. Some way somehow if you’re up to no good and it involves dogs, you’ll be found out. Hopefully this blog and others like it will lead to a better understanding of where all the money goes to when HSUS & PETA run to the scene with begging cups and greedy eyes. Thanks and dog bless! Drayton Michaels CTC “Dogs are Innocent”
May 27, 2009 at 6:08 pm
I posted before but I guess it didn’t go through.
I thought this was a great blog. Well written.
My problem with Vick is that the dog fighting is bad enough. But to kill the dogs in such a horrible fashion is what makes me wonder. There’s a line that was crossed there for me and I don’t know that someone like that, that is capable of doing this sort of thing will just “decide” to be better now. Hmmm.
We have Leo one of the former Vick dogs. And I shutter to think. http://www.ourpack.org/leo.html
I posted earlier about how Vick is still getting SO much attention. His dogs deserve the “well done” for any “changes” they’ve made.www.ourpack.org/leo.html
Marthina Mcclay, CPDT
Our Pack
May 27, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Oh, Marthina, Leo is beautiful. So is your work with these dogs. The slide shows at your link are not to be missed. Those faces…
Thank you so much for sharing.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 27, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Hi Drayton,
I have always been suspicous of the huge so-called non-profits. I do remember the Red Cross incident – earmarked funds for NYC and the World Trade Tower – went elsewhere. Pacelle has an agenda, which is fine. Just don’t dupe donors about where the money is going.
I sure would like to see your documentary when it is completed. I would be hornored to do a write a review – pre-release – here at the Canine Kingdom.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 27, 2009 at 7:05 pm
Great article! Thanks for supporting the rescue groups who really made a difference in this case. (On another note, Semper Fido is super cute!!)
May 27, 2009 at 7:13 pm
HI JCA,
I always have admiration for those behind the scenes. The ones who clean the kennel, those who take that shelter dog out for a long walk or some Frisbee fun.
My husband is a Marine – hence the Semper Fido. We are actually in the process of working with a SAR K9 named Semper – handled by a Marine of course!
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 27, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Hey Marilyn,
Thanks. Just send me an email direct with an address and I’ll send you a copy of The Pit Bull Hoax http://www.pitbullguru.com/hoax.html.
Hello Marthina! How’s the fur kids.
I got the immense privledge of meeting Leo, pictures are not enough. He is amazing as is his Mom! Thanks for all you do!
May 27, 2009 at 9:06 pm
Thanks Drayton for the kind comments!!
Marilyn thank you so much for your words!!
My guys are great over here. How about yours Drayton?
I must add that my grammar was horrible in my last post! Forgive me. I should pay closer attention while writing!
Here’s a video showing Best Friends and Our Pack on NBC News with Brian Williams. Leo is doing therapy work in the video that they shot in the clinic. I’m so happy that BW producers are still interested in showing who these dogs really are. This is our blogspot with the NBC video and one from last year http://packrescue.blogspot.com/2009/05/thanks-nbc-nightly-news.html#links
Here’s what Leo had to say about it on the blog.www.packrescue.blogspot.com
Enjoy!
Again, thanks for such a great blog. 🙂
May 27, 2009 at 8:20 pm
I appreciate you taking the time to compile all of this information for us. Although I have never been more disgusted with the actions of another human being, I would feel hypocritical saying that Michael Vick will never change for the better. He’s a long way from the finish line, but I can’t bring myself to call him hopeless. I (along with many supportive family and friends) have rehabilitated what people once thought to be a hopeless “monster” of a dog. His ability to let go of the past and start over has inspired us all and given us renewed hope in a sometimes bleak world. The amazing success stories made possible by the Vicktory dogs and all the people who have guided them have inspired an entire nation. Although it is difficult for all of us to get over what he has done, and honestly I don’t think I ever will as I still cry just thinking about it, it is important to spark compassion by showing compassion. I think to claim a man could never change discredits the phenomenal progress the Vicktory dogs and their rescuers have made. What we’ve come to expect from dogs we should begin to expect from our own human race.
I am also fortunate enough to have worked extensively with underprivileged, inner city children. Like pitbulls, the world has given up on them. Many without strong father figures, they are incredibly impressionable and reach toward professional athletes for strength and guidance. It is in this regard that I think Vick could be useful. Like our dogs, his rehabilitation will take time and patience, but the effect he would have by reaching out to underprivileged youth could be immediate. Many will argue that he shouldn’t be advocating without having yet undergone a full transformation, but I believe he could have a tremendous impact on these kids while working with an organization that dictates his every move. Whether the HSUS is the right organization for the job is definitely up for debate, but I think it’s time for us to put our anger aside (not away for good), forget about how this will impact his reputation, career etc., stop debating whether or not he deserves a second shot, and really sit down to think about how using him could ultimately impact the future of underprivileged children and dogs everywhere.
May 27, 2009 at 10:28 pm
Hello Lisa,
Thank you for your thoughtful and intelligent reply to my blog. I am often criticized for caring more about dogs than people – and that is often true. Someone has to stand beside the dogs and speak for them.
I do understand the points you make, however, I wonder if Vick’s efforts to help end dog fighting are premature. I also question the motives of HSUS, especially the routing of donated funds. Will it really go where it is supposed to go? This has not always been the case with the HSUS.
I think that Vick needs to complete his sentence and then his status as an anti-dog fighting advocate can be better evaluated.
I do wonder… if Vick completes his sentence, is vindicated by the NFL, is drafted by a team – would he then spend his free time helping underpriveledged kids understand the evils of dog fighting?
Or is this all posturing to get back in the game?
I am not in a position to determine that. I wonder if Pacelle and the HSUS are…
I sure hope someone is before he becomes a spokesperson for dog fighting.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 27, 2009 at 8:49 pm
I personally have no use for Vick or the so called backing that Pacalle is giving. Because of my background in law enforcement I see 2 issues here with Vick. 1) how many criminals are “truly” rehabilitated? My husband being in corrections can tell you, not many. How many inmates get released and then go back out on the street and re-commit crimes and land themselves back into the system, quite a few. 2) What Vick did is animal abuse. We all know that, but what else is he abusing? Animal abuse unfortunately is a precursor many times for human abuse, be child, spouse or elderly. He can chime “I’ve changed” as much as he wants to, but my gut tells me that he will just figure out a way to do his activities and not get caught.
My heart goes out to these poor dogs and many other dogs and animals for that matter that have been a victim of abuse. Kudos to those who have selflessly committed themselves to giving these dogs the life that they deserve.
I know that when I have taught my animal abuse curriculum to a room full of seasoned cops, I always get gasps and ghastly reactions to the photos of abused, tortured and battered animals, the only other topic that gets just as much reaction is child abuse.
I’m with Marilyn, I wish Vick and Pacelle would just go away.
May 27, 2009 at 10:31 pm
Thanks Traci,
You stand in differnt shoes than many of us. On a daily basis you see the ‘underside’ of life.
I still, also, just want Vick and the HSUS go away.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 27, 2009 at 10:37 pm
Quote by Marilyn: “I do wonder… if Vick completes his sentence, is vindicated by the NFL, is drafted by a team – would he then spend his free time helping underpriveledged kids understand the evils of dog fighting?”
I do wonder this myself. Good point! I think this is what’s in question. Is this something Vick really wants to do for himself, to be a better person?
I’m a big believer in people changing and doing better. I also have recently worked on other cases like the Vick case. The dogs from those cases were so resilient, didn’t hold “grudges”, left it all behind them if you will and started new lives. However, they are the victims in these cases, not the perps.
There should be more self determined actions by Vick. This remains to be seen.
Marthina
Our Pack
May 28, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Hi Marthina,
I read alot about Vick. His dad worked long hours but always played with his kids when he could. Vick was a football star in high school, he was idolized for 2 years in college. Then…his quick donward spiral. Too much money, power, fame?
It was then he took up with the goons from his old neighborhood – instead of embracing Atlanta society as suggested and urged by his coach, his team mates, friends and family.
I am not a psychologist but I have seen these patterns before. He may have been comfortable on the field but lacked the education and social graces to feel at home in the sophisticated circles of Atlanta. Feelings of insecurity, low self esteem? Don’t know. But, I doubt that a federal prison like Leavenworth devotes a lot of time toward psychological rehabilitation. If Vick is to be a productive member of society he will need professional help.
As Traci pointed out animal cruelty is a precurser of domestic violence. Something is seriously wrong with this man. He did not have to take part in the actual murders of the ‘lesser’ pit bulls. He could have easily left that to his goons. It’s almost like he wanted to be a part of it. Scary.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 28, 2009 at 12:49 am
Love that Pacelle and HSUS are the self proclaimed saviors of the Vick pit bulls. Both in the Vick case and later, in the Wilkes Country case (North Carolina v. Ed Faron) HSUS deemed the dogs dangerous.
In the latter case, Amanda Arrington, the HSUS North Carolina State Director and Chris Schindler (HSUS’s dogfighting investigator) testified before Judge Wilson that “given their bloodlines” newborn puppies were menaces to society and should be killed. They were. Over 60 infant pups were PTS as a direct result of Judge Wilson being swayed by HSUS.
Shame on both the HSUS and Judge Wilson. They have blood on their hands.
May 29, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Hi Tamara,
Yes they do have blood on their hands. So many donations from unknowing dog lovers channeled through HSUS &PETA – into the hands of lobbyists, politicians and law makers.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 28, 2009 at 2:36 am
The only thing I want to read about Vicks is his obituary
May 28, 2009 at 2:45 pm
While researching for this blog topic I saw so many pictures of the rehabilitated Vicktory dogs. Today, in the Washington Post I read of this ruling by the courts. So sad…
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/26/AR2009052603672.html
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 28, 2009 at 3:19 pm
Would love to see Vick REALLY working with abused animals – not just becoming a media darling to return to the NFL! I will NEVER support or watch any team that lets him return to the NFL if his future actions don’t atone for his CRIMES!
Maybe not PC – but this avid football fan cares more about our canines than this player and his career.
May 29, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Hi Nancy,
He’s running scared now because he may not have a career.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 28, 2009 at 5:49 pm
The problem is people who don’t know squat about dogs, let alone Pit Bulls are making decisions about dogs. It is infuriating, it’s ridiculous and most of all it is insulting. We have legitimate people in this country who do know about dogs and dog behavior and they need to be included on ANY and ALL legal proceedings.
Judge Wilson should have reached out to actual legitimate dog experts, the HSUS and their people are media and marketing fundraisers, I mean really now, if ANYONE in the HSUS had legitimate dog skills we’d know. ANYONE can cut n paste info and make statements. This is what these Org’s do.
Judge McCahill in the Loudoun County case is another example. I sent him a copy of The Pit Bull Hoax DVD. I was sent a letter letting me know that according to the Cannons of Judicial Conduct it was considered an ex parte communication IE: done for one party only. He could not “take any action” and that I should stop any further correspondence. The DVD is filed in the clerk’s office.
Wow, you mean you could not watch a DVD featuring legitimate dog experts!? Why? Afraid you might actually learn something? This is the trouble with dogs and the law, hell it’s the trouble with dogs in general, people make things up, ignore the truth and sacrifice common sense and science for opinions by idiots or at best people who “think” they know what they are doing.
It is a matter of public record that a dog trainer, who until now I thought was on the side of Pit Bulls, said under oath in the Loudoun case that she would “not have a problem euthanizing puppies for normal dog behavior”.
I have been in contact with Tidewater rescue and they assured me they would send me a copy of the court transcripts so I can read for myself what was said. If this person actually said this, without any detailed explanation of what she meant, I’ll make it known.
The problem of ignorance is not exclusive to people in the legal profession, shelters are filled with “Know it all” hacks that could not train or do behavior modification to save their life and then there’s shelter directors who are complete corporate drones. It goes on under the nose of communities who donate money for the dogs to get help, but are they really getting help? Or are they just housed and hoped for adoption?
The day is coming where in order to make money from working with dog’s people will need to be certified and held accountable for their decisions. Every decision someone makes about a dog holds that dog’s life in the balance. It’s not always that intense but it is always that important.
May 28, 2009 at 9:40 pm
Funny, those are my dogs in that pic in the Washington Post. Part of the photo gallery on the Vick dogs. Leo’s is in the middle, an Our Pack dog the other two are my personal dogs Dexter and Hailey the Brindle.
I just don’t get it. This is just incredible to me that this could go on in this day and age.
I agree with the above, one day people will need to be held accountable.
Marthina McClay, CPDT
Our Pack ourpack.org
May 28, 2009 at 9:58 pm
Hi Marilyn,
In addition to my post above, I wanted to make it clear as an earlier post was not so clear, that I do NOT think Vick is just going to change after what he did. When I say that I’m all for people changing I mean that for people that really can and that do not potentially have a severe psychological condition that actually endangers the community Folks that actually know they did something wrong and WANT to change.
I too have seen that same evidence and data regarding serial killers and what behavior they perform before becoming what they are. What Vick was doing with these dogs goes FAR beyond the cruel world of fighting dogs. This is sadistic and cruel and as you said, to want to be a part of it instead of having someone else do the “dirty” work is beyond my comprehension. This is behavior that I do NOT feel Vick can just wish away or decide not to be it anymore. This is not cultural such a fighting dogs (even then I feel this is such a sadistic “sport”) this is IN the man.
Marthina
May 29, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Marthina,
I think you are right. Just look at his picture – the one I chose for this blog. I looked at hundreds of pictures of him before I chose that one – his booking photo. So many other pictures of Vick show in in $5,000 suits and fancy haircuts… or in his football uniform – the warrior look.
But in his mug shot photo he is stripped of what he believes makes him – defines him. Take a look at those killer eyes.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
May 29, 2009 at 2:43 pm
Hello Folks,
This just in: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,522700,00.html
Local authorities on it. Let’s see how much money HSUS spends on these dogs.
Such a different spin because they are not pit bulls.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
June 3, 2009 at 7:52 pm
I am worried that if Vick uses this HSUS ploy to “teach young kids” something, and then gets reinstated in the NFL, what he will be teaching them is that if you work the system, you can get away with heinous conduct and still get the goodies….we can’t let this happen. Vick should be “sentenced” to work with dogs, not just pay for their care, for years to come. Let those precious souls work their magic on him, let them change him. Maybe when he’s an old man, a fate he denied those dogs, he just might get the message. Don’t make him go away, don’t let what he did be forgotten. Make him remember it every day for years to come. Don’t let him play football.
August 1, 2009 at 1:28 am
Thank you for such an informative open letter. I have been a member of HSUS for years. However, I am not happy with the way the organization has dealt with the Vick situation, nor how they planned to deal with the dogs. Kudos to Best Friends, ASPCA, and Badrap.org….and the volunteers who helped all those dogs. I am re-thinking my feelings and committment to the HSUS. Thank you again for a well written letter.
August 3, 2009 at 8:40 am
Great article. thank you. We are forwarding it and also posting it on our website when we compile the links.
BOYCOTT The Humane Society of the United States!
The only thing the Humane Society needs to do with Michael Vick is euthanize him. Let this sadist go! ~~Nikki Craft, August 1, 2009
It is with great sadness that I am compelled to call for this boycott against the Humane Society. They have facilitated Michael Vick being able to return to football which portrays a horrible example for young children everywhere to believe they can kill and torture dogs and live a criminal life and still be a great football star. This is the rule rather than the exception for the NFL bad boyz with their glamor and fame privilege. But we do expect more from the Humane Society. We want to know which way the money for this deal flowed. Did Vick pay the Humane Society? Or is the Humane Society paying Vick? This page will be updated soon. For now please share this with your friends and network and speak out about this issue.
If you are on facebook please join our facebook group “Boycott the Humane Society, the NFL, all their sponsors & Michael Vick!”
http://tiny.cc/sA2lu
Please pass this information on to your friends and network.
August 3, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Hi Nikki,
I was not surprised that vick was allowed back into the NFL. There was a time when the sports legends on the Wheaties cereal boxes really were champions…those days are gone I fear.
The HSUS has enough blood on their hands…they have euthanized too many animals already.
Vick should be allowed to complete his sorry life in shame and ignamony.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
August 3, 2009 at 11:59 am
Great thoughtful information Marilyn! Thank you! Personally I am waiting somewhat impatiently for Vick to do something besides meet with NFL officials regarding reinstatement. Where are his efforts with children or dogs he promised? I realize it has only been a short time for him to be out but what is he doing besides trying to obtain a permit for a deer lease to be on the property where the dogs once were. Yes, he supposedly wants to hunt and kill deer on the same land. He wants a horse stable too. So does that mean he goes from betting on dogs to betting on horses? I try and want to give everyone the benefit of the doubt however the behavior Vick was involved with including but not limited to the betting, fighting, torturing of dogs is not just something someone does to pass time but are symptoms of a much deeper issue. I hope and pray to God that Vick proves me wrong but my intuition is telling me that I am right on target and that we have not seen the last of Vick’s criminal behavior!
August 3, 2009 at 10:40 pm
I HATE vick…he doesnt deserve anything but to stay in jail!! Big deal if he hung out with the wrong crowd..he knew what he was doing…Funny thing Mike Tomlin head coach of the Pittsburg Steelers came from the same place and look at Tomlin..he is great..Vick is a prick!
August 4, 2009 at 12:17 am
Hi Kathy,
Don’t allow his evil to fill you with hate. Take that energy and re-direct it.
Vick chose, as a successful, wealthy adult, a seedy, sadistic, sociopathic life. I really believe that the HSUS – which brings in millions in donations, and is led by seemingly well educated people, shares a very arge part of the blame – didn’t they call for the execution of over 100 pit bulls – including new born puppies – earlier this year?
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
August 5, 2009 at 4:19 pm
Pacelle doesn’t even have a dog! I guess he doesn’t understand the bond we dog owners and animal lovers feel for our furry guys/girls.
If Pacelle had any guts at all, he would stand up and say: Vick is despicable.I would never allow him to be associated with the HSUS. But no….and as far as I’m concerned, he’s lost all credibility by doing this. I was fortunate enough to rescue and share my life with a female pit bull..it took a lot of tlc to de-program her, but I did it. And I would do it again. Given the right circumstances- for example a LOVING home, they are the most loyal and sweetest dogs you can imagine. Any person that can kill/torture a dog – any animal- is missing the empathy gene. Among other things that are not fit to print…. Let Vick get a job and work for a living. Roger Goodell is another chump. Why should we care about Vick getting back into the NFL? If he were not a famous athlete, NO ONE WOULD CARE about him at all!!!
Anyone who sponsors a team that would hire Vick, MUST be boycotted…LOUD AND CLEAR.
This comment is for you Babe, my amazing pit….
August 5, 2009 at 6:37 pm
lets get rid of Pacelle who doesn’t even interact animals for someone that actually cares, like Scotlund H. I will make a appointment with my lawyer to change my will, my estate,which was going to HSUS abuse division, is not now that I see HSUS has strayed to far away from what they were intended to do. I will send the old will copy to them with a explanation of why they no long have my money or my respect… I will sign boycot letters because this goes way, way farther than just a animal abuser like vick is.
August 8, 2009 at 11:45 pm
He paid his debt to SOCIETY??
How can you repay “society” for the systematic torture, electrocution, bludgeoning and strangulation of “animals” ?????… And to have such an opinion is absolutely moronic since “society” is to blame for the dog-fighting syndrome to begin with. I am shocked to learn that so many “supposedly intelligent” people (as well as the ignorant) make this very statement. This is as stupid as borrowing money from Citi Bank, and then repaying Bank Of America. Where are your BRAINS?
This is much more than a single crime committed by someone making an error in judgment. HE’S BEEN DOING THIS FOR MANY YEARS! The second this truly disgusting individual sets one TOE on a NFL playing field, a statement will be made that sadistic torture of animals IS socially accepted in this country.
August 8, 2009 at 11:50 pm
while your opinion on HSUS is ‘right on the money’, I am deeply saddened that you are of the opinion that Vick should have another chance to re climb his pedestal / regain fame and fortune and be a role model to kids. DEEPLY SADDENED!
Peter C.
Stuart, Florida.
August 9, 2009 at 9:01 pm
This is only the beginning –
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jF1aDSSjrdi3LAeKuNRFAGagRN5AD99V1HD82
Vick speaks for 12 minutes – HSUS Pacelle is kicked to the curb and the vick handlers whisk off the unrenetant dog murderer in a limo…
I am ouragaged – pacelle has lost it – and vick is a rappin’ rock star –
Marilyn
August 12, 2009 at 12:23 pm
Hey Miis Marilynnw19, Shouldn’t paragraph 3 read “As far as WAS concerned?”.. help me out here, I only have an 8th grade education. I guess I read it wrong,, sounds like your all for giving vick another chance.
August 12, 2009 at 2:29 pm
Hello Peter,
Like any other convicted criminal vick must do his time. I don’t believe that our penal system rehabilitates criminals – especially those that cause harm to people and in this case dogs. I don’t believe vick is rehabilitated – I think he is a sociopath. I don’t think that he should be allowed back in sports – but I don’t make the rules.
It sickens me that vick has a posse of ‘handlers’. It sickens me that he is riding around in limos.
I believe vick had his chance – as a star quarterback – and he blew it…
I don’t think that vick should ever play ball again – he is a convicted felon. I don’t think that convicted felons should stand as role models as sports figures.
I don’t know why you think I support vick – I don’t hate him – he is far too pathetic for me to harbor those negative feelings. I just want him to go away – out of the media, out of the stadiums, out of the limos, and out of the HSUS.
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
August 14, 2009 at 3:13 pm
The Philadelphia Eagles are holding a press conference as I write this.
It’s pretty hard to watch.
I remember the kid who was in the Dell computer TV commercials a few years ago. He was nabbed for smoking pot…he lost his Dell job because people expressed their outrage.
Michael Phelps – a gold medal Olympian swimmer also lost millions in endorsements because he was smoking a bong.People expressed their distaste and did not want either of these people viewed as role models.
Both of these young men committed victimless misdemeanors at best.
Michael Vick is a convicted felon – and his crimes were heinous.
The Philadelphia Eagles have numerous sponsors – let them all know of your outrage!!!! Here’s the list of the sponsors of the Philadelphia Eagles:
http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/team/corporatepartners.html
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
August 14, 2009 at 4:28 pm
I have changed the link to my Blogs
blog.caninekingdom.com/
I will post an udate today on Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles
Semper Fido,
Marilyn
August 14, 2009 at 4:39 pm
Boycott list here http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/team/corporatepartners.html
Send polite emails here stating your dislike of their pick of dog killer VICK http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/fanzone/ContactUs.html
September 7, 2009 at 3:59 pm
I have rehabbed dogs that were suppose to be put down or that would bite in fear. I took them in and gave them the 1 thing they needed and deserved. “LOVE”
November 17, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Vick is on a huge campaign to get himself voted into the probowl. I am thinking if we all get together and vote against him it will at least keep him from his dream of being in the probowl. You can go here:
http://www.nfl.com/probowl/ballot
You can vote as many times are you want and on the first page just a player other than vick and submit. You don’t have to pick 3 as it says. Just Pick other than VICK !!!