by Pat Gray

Created on: December 23, 2007   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

I am amazed at the number of people who attempted to justify and rationalize Michael Vick's actions in promoting dog fighting. What he did was wrong, plain and simple, it was barbaric, and he should be punished.

Some dismiss his actions because it is a "cultural thing". Does this make his actions any less despicable? No.

Some say he should be allowed to play football again because he is an asset to the game, an exciting player, and he will be better able to make restitution if he is in the lime-light. Does this lesson the suffering of the dogs he allowed to fight for his amusement? No.

Some, including Mr. Vick himself, say he has learned his lesson, and that he is "sorry". Does committing a barbaric crime, and then just apologizing to get off scott-free set a good example for the youngsters that looked to professional athletes as role models? No.

Some say that dog fighting is not as important an issue as human-rights violations. Does that make dog fighting and cruelty to animals any less a criminal act? No.

Some say the greater issue is the gambling that was involved in dog fighting. Is the passing of money from one criminal to another more important that the torture of innocent animals? No.

Animal rights and cruelty aside, dog fighting is illegal, Michael Vick not only participated in dog fighting, but he lied to cover his crime. He should be punished. End of story.

As for the issue of cruelty and the suffering of all the dogs he and others like him have caused, I believe that what comes around, goes around. When I die, I look forward to a wonderful, joyous reunion with all of the dogs and cats and horses I have loved over the years.

If my vision of the afterlife comes true, I wonder what Mr. Vick has to look forward too. Perhaps he should start making amends now......

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