Michael Vick Gets a Dog—Heaven Help Us

If an individual had taken sadistic glee in the slaughter of multiple children and was subsequently apprehended, the perpetrator would, of course, never again see the light of day. Children are not dogs, however both child and dog are dependent, innocent, and precious creatures, qualifying for the classification of “the least among us.”

I am left scratching my head over the ability of admitted dog-killer and sadist Michael Vick being able to again serve as guardian to one, something which it is obvious he was not happy for the public to come to know.

It is troubling to me that solely by virtue of being a superior football player, Vick has been welcomed back to his exalted position as a rich and admired man, his crime spree having been set aside by many fans that believe that football is the most important facet of our lives. Even former Gov. Ed Rendell, who purports to be a dog-lover, seeks to whitewash Vick’s abhorrent crimes against animals, recently stating in a radio interview, “I love Michael Vick!” 

I do not love Michael Vick. Some crimes are unforgivable and unforgettable. I do not believe an individual should have the opportunity to wash away a fatal character flaw as a mere “mistake” from which he has purportedly learned. Vick has demonstrated through his actions that he should always be regarded as a potential menace to civilized society. If he is considered by the "justice" system to have served his time, he deserves the ability to make a living. He does not deserve the ability to earn $10 million per year as a respected professional athlete whom some admire.

It is unfortunate that the Humane Society of the United States is not in a position to disparage the notion of Vick having a dog in his household again. That is because the organization has diminished its reputation by unwisely working with Vick as he tours the nation to pay lip service to treating animals with sensitivity and basic decency.

If Vick must be permitted to have a dog, and if there is a desire to protect defenseless animals, close watch should be kept on his home by animal protection authorities. The past is generally the best predictor of the future.