As a sports afficiando and simultaneous animal advocate, I sincerely hope PETA can lead a HUGE campaign of awareness on the abuse of animals by sports figures, Micahel Vick and Ron Artest (NBA) leading the pack of perpetrators.

While perhaps not every citizen will agree on the merits or demerits of vegetarianism or vegan lifestyles, all humanity can unite in protesting this particular injustice against animals. Dogfighting is a heinous crime, nor more, no less. Thanks, PETA for putting the info out there so quickly.

Posted by: ALYSSA | July 17, 2007 07:08 PM

I just heard the allegations that Mike Vick (aka Ron Mexico) is being charged with and I must say as a pet owner, I am digusted. Not only the were the dogs being forced to fight, but the manner is which some of the dogs were executed is very disturbing. If these things are true, I hope PETA puts alot of pressure of the NFL and the Atlanta Falcons to make sure Vick is suspended indefinitely.

Posted by: Curt Stahl | July 17, 2007 07:08 PM

Michael Vick needs to be terminated immediately and cut off from all NFL's legal representation. If the NFL has any dignity he will be gone within 24 hrs. And he should be prosectuted to the full extent of the law.

As a caretaker of a Hurricane Katrina survivor, I still get teary thinking about where Bob would have ended up if he wasn't with us. This is unimaginable.

Posted by: Katherine | July 17, 2007 07:20 PM

Can someone post all of Mike Vick's sponsors, so that we can contact them! I know that Nike is one, but that is it.
Thanks!

Posted by: Angela | July 17, 2007 07:28 PM

After conviction, his punsihment should include being placed in an enclosed area with several fighting pitbulls that have been captured.

If he survives that, then throw him in jail for 10 years or more.

Posted by: joseph | July 17, 2007 07:41 PM

As a sports afficiando and simultaneous animal advocate, I sincerely hope PETA can lead a HUGE campaign of awareness on the abuse of animals by sports figures, Micahel Vick and Ron Artest (NBA) leading the pack of perpetrators.

While perhaps not every citizen will agree on the merits or demerits of vegetarianism or vegan lifestyles, all humanity can unite in protesting this particular injustice against animals. Dogfighting is a heinous crime, nor more, no less. Thanks, PETA for putting the info out there so quickly.

Posted by: ALYSSA | July 17, 2007 08:25 PM

Can something be done about Micheal Vick? I too would like to know his sponsers.

Posted by: Mary | July 17, 2007 08:36 PM

To contact the Falcons

Mailing Address:
Atlanta Falcons
4400 Falcon Parkway
Flowery Branch, GA 30542

Phone Number:
770-965-3115

Website Address:
www.atlantafalcons.com

Email Address:
Contact us with any questions, comments, suggestions or concerns at feedback@fans.atlantafalcons.com.

Posted by: kelly | July 17, 2007 08:50 PM

Please go to the Atlanta Falcons website and respond to their vague official statement in which they maintain that they will "support their players" through this ordeal. I encouraged them to make clear to the public the gravity of the allegations against their player who may deserve to be reprimanded more than supported at this time.

Posted by: Jennifer | July 17, 2007 09:05 PM

I too just read the news about Michael Vick's indictment and was brought to tears. We can only hope his sponsors will drop him in order to further drive home the message that animal cruelty is not tolerable from ANYONE. I agree with Alyssa in hopes that you, PETA will put pressure on the Atlanta Falcons for an indefinite suspension.

Posted by: Lisa | July 17, 2007 09:37 PM

Is Nike a sponsor? I emailed them and told them if they are, that no one I know will use their products!

Posted by: geraldine | July 17, 2007 10:22 PM

Hello my name is Patrick and although I'm not a member of your organization...I still believe in the ethical treatment of animals. As a proud owner of 2 beautiful dogs...and a fan of the NFL...I BEG YOU to go after this scumbag!!! PLEASE!!! Whatever it takes...take him down. There is a special place in hell for people like him. Just because he's an NFL quarterback with millions of dollars, doesn't mean he can treat dogs like that. I hope he never sees the field again.

Posted by: Patrick | July 17, 2007 10:32 PM

PETA... please give this dirtbag hell!!!

Posted by: Allie | July 17, 2007 11:04 PM

I cannot believe this is going on still today. I have a pittbull and everyone thinks she is mean because of her breed, but she is the sweetest most loving dog in the world. I have been a strong supporter of animal rights for years and wish PETA would focus more on cruelty to dogs and cats. I think that Michael Vick should not only be fined, but all of his assets should be seized to help the SPCA and other animal cruelty places. Otherwise he will just start again when he gets out of jail with all of his millions.

Posted by: Dee Dee | July 17, 2007 11:05 PM

I am surprised at the laize' faire stance that Peta is taking. I was expecting more information on how we can assist in convicting and/or how to contact commissioner Goodall to have Vick banned from the NFL. Quite frankly I am disappointed.

Posted by: Melissa | July 17, 2007 11:27 PM

Remember when you read about an innocent person injured by a "bad" pit bull that has been badly bred and mistreated to make it mean, that there are unscrupulous, heartless, unfeeling people who took a lovely breed of dog and tried to breed the good out of it. People like Michael Vick are responsible for cruelty to animals and cruelty to people. They are among the lowest of the human specie. I hope they throw the book at this SOB and I am so sorry for the lives of the dogs who suffered at his hands because they simply did not have in in them to be mean enough. He is a monster and all the money in the world could never elevate such a person. I am disgusted.

Posted by: Ike Warren | July 18, 2007 12:05 AM

clear your mind a second and just think---what kind of person would hang, electrocute, drown, or slam to the ground til dead an already suffering totally innocent animal? I submit they derived more pleasure from murder than from dogfighting. its a sad situation, a society with such distorted priorities that this kind of person rises to celebrity status. there's a huge lesson here, people need to take a closer look at their priorities, at the products being pushed on them. Meanwhile, Vick and his "hood" buddies can rot in hell.

Posted by: jim | July 18, 2007 12:25 AM

I agree with Melissa, Why is this not plastered all over PETA's homepage? When this first started in April I came to this sight for more info and found nothing! PETA, this is your opportunity to expose and help eradicate dog fighting and over all dog abuse nationwide. Carry the banner and lead the charge!!!!!!!

Posted by: Andy | July 18, 2007 12:26 AM

As I looked at his smiling face in photos posted across other websites ... all I see is the face of pure evil. What he and other heartless, evil individuals did deserves punishment to the highest degree. Torturing living beings is not tolerated in our society and those that do should not be permitted in it. Another disgusting "role" model ...

Posted by: Elizabeth | July 18, 2007 12:31 AM

I THINK THAT THE FALCONS NEED TO RETHINK KEEPING MICHAEL VICK. HE IS A DISGRACE TO THE NFL & MOST DEFINITELY TO THE HUMAN RACE AND WILL ONLY BRING THE FALCONS DOWN!

I PERSONALLY WILL BY WORD OF MOUTH RALLY AGAINST MICHAEL AND THE FALCONS FOR HIS INHUMANE TREATMENT OF ANIMALS!

I DO NOT FEEL THAT 6 YEARS IN PRISON WILL BE HARSH ENOUGH! HE SHOULD HAVE TO SPEND THE FULL 6 YEARS + IN JAIL SERVING HARD TIME WITH HARDENED CRIMINALS AND HE SHOULD BE FINED AT LEAST ONE YEAR OF HIS SALARY WHICH SHOULD BE DONATED TO THE HUMANE SOCIETY FOR THE CRUELTY TO ANIMALS.... JUSTICE! UNFORTUNATELY, THERE IS NO JUSTICE FOR THE DOGS THAT HE KILLED OR FOR ANY OF THE POOR DOGS THAT HE FOUGHT, ESPECIALLY THE ONES THAT DIED FROM FIGHTING THAT WE DO NOT EVEN KNOW ABOUT!

Posted by: SHERRIE BADEAUX | July 18, 2007 01:57 AM

I would hope that PETA would provide more contact information for the companies who hire this scumbag to promote their products! I have already wriiten the Atlanta Falcons and will write the NFL commissioner next!

Posted by: Anna | July 18, 2007 02:08 AM

People are innocent until proven guilty, however, if such a person is found guilty I wonder why: 1) The violence in Iraq isn't enough to suffice for some individuals, and; 2) What PR role will PETA have in assuring this person goes to jail, previous incidents of such crimes have always resulted in prison sentences for "non-superstar status assigned" individuals. Just a thought.....

Posted by: Dave and his yellow lab "Nasda" | July 18, 2007 02:09 AM

I am very upset and disgusted over this! He needs to be stripped of what he has and punished to the max. I hope he NEVER plays again! As far as his apperance on Fox 5 stating "his fans will stick beside him no matter what"... I have one thing to say about that.. I will stick by who ever puts him away and gives him a maximum sentence. What a low life person. He is scum of the earth in my book.Let him rot in hell!!!

Posted by: Kim | July 18, 2007 02:11 AM

As an NFL fan I am to ashamed. Why? Because I just realized as a season ticket holder, a subscriber to various NFL channels, and a proud sports ware wearer that my hard earned dollars end up (somehow along the dollar chain) in the hands of disgusting criminals who behave poorly. It doesnt matter if Vick is guilty or not, I probably have a couple of my dollars invested in the Virginia property and it was used as a place to kill these devine beings.

I just canceled my seasons tickets, canceled my NFL package on direct TV, and I am suggesting to others to stop the flow of dollars to these killers. I sleep tonight knowing I have done what I can to accept my own responsibiity.

I hope the spirit of these beautiful animals lives on to destroy the real beasts.

Posted by: We created this monster. | July 18, 2007 02:52 AM

IF Vick and the two other men are convicted, they ONLY face $350,000 and 6 years in prison- which will likely be reduced to several months or simply probation. The actions that they took deserve far more serious penalties. As a professional athlete, Vick is automatically in a leadership position and being how he has abused this power, I think he should be banned from the NFL.

Posted by: Mischa | July 18, 2007 06:56 AM

I'm sure PETA will be doing more today. The information came late in the day yesterday and was really kinda surprised to see it on Jack's blog. Good goin', dude!

Meanwhile I was repulsed at my local sportscaster last night on the 10 pm news who ended his report on the wonderful news with "more problems for the NFL". Who gives a you-know-what about the NFL?!?! This is a horrible, vicious, reprehensible CRIME against sentinet beings.

I will be contacting the sports guy at that station today. I love that these news programs all have websites and emails for on air staff...ahh...the internet is a good thing...

Posted by: Tamara | July 18, 2007 06:56 AM

I will never go to see another Falcons game, or shop at Home Depot (same owner as the Falcons) as long as Micheal Vick is on that team

Posted by: Beth | July 18, 2007 07:27 AM

I agree, where is PETA on this? All we get is a small update. He's getting off easy so far.

Posted by: Steve | July 18, 2007 08:01 AM

The Province of Quebec, Canada is no exception to this kind of animal cruelty. I hope the U.S. Attorney's office will lay down the law on this guy and his accomplices and set an example for those harming and neglecting animals in the canadian province of Quebec where no law exists to protect animals whatsoever. Thank you...Terri...Montreal.

Posted by: Terri Forte | July 18, 2007 08:21 AM

I would also like to see Mr. Poindexter asked to resign and I wonder if there are any efforts ongoing in this regard.

Posted by: Ginger Sznakowski | July 18, 2007 08:29 AM

I would also like to see Mr. Poindexter asked to resign and I wonder if there are any efforts ongoing in this regard.

Posted by: Ginger Sznakowski | July 18, 2007 08:29 AM

According to the indictment, dogs that didn't show enough fighting spirit, or that lost matches, were put to death by a variety of methods, including SHOOTING, DROWNING, HANGING and ELECTROCUTION. Prosecutors allege that on one occasion earlier this year, Vick participated in killing eight dogs.
These poor puppies have now found peace under the rainbow bridge. I hope this idiot rots in hell.

Posted by: Shannon | July 18, 2007 08:44 AM

I think PETA needs to get a couple of petitions going against Michael Vick and send them to all of his sponsors so they can drop him.

Posted by: Robyn | July 18, 2007 08:45 AM

There is only one course of action now...the Falcons must cut him, (since it will be a BIG distraction anyway), and the NFL must susoend him indefinately. If they could suspend Pacman Jones, simply on allegations, then Michael Vick must also be suspended for moral reasons and the fact he was indicted by the federal government.

Posted by: Paul Calpin | July 18, 2007 08:46 AM

I hope that PETA brings all of its considerable power and prestige to bear on the conviction of Michael Vick and all of the individuals associated in this dogfighting ring. Monied celebrities need to be held accountable and responsible for their crimes - and this is a heinous crime against animals - instead of the courts "winking" and giving out slap-on-the-wrist punishments. These people need to do some serious jail time, and Michael Vick's sponsors and the Atlantic Falcons need to drop him.

Posted by: judi ziegler | July 18, 2007 09:09 AM

Please don't let this man get away with this. This charge is not harassment of Vic it is an ethical charge against an encredible evil man.

Posted by: Margaret | July 18, 2007 09:11 AM

Please don't let this man get away with this. This charge is not harassment of Vic It is is an ethical charge against an encredible evil man.

Posted by: Margaret | July 18, 2007 09:11 AM

Please PETA, keep the pressure on so that this story gets as much media coverage as possible. That may help ensure that corporate sponsors and the NFL teams pull their support for this creep.

Posted by: Susan | July 18, 2007 09:16 AM

I just heard of this this morning. What can people do to make sure he gets the punishment he deserves?

Posted by: dawn stone | July 18, 2007 09:19 AM

While the allegations against Vick are deplorable and if found guilty he should be punished to the fullest extent of the law at this point he is innocent. We are in serious trouble as a society if acts such as dog fighting go unpunished, but in my opinion we are in even more trouble if we are simply mouthing the words "innocent until proven guilty" without actually believing them.

Posted by: Anonymous | July 18, 2007 09:32 AM

It is difficult to even read about this crime without getting sick to the stomach. I'm not only an animal rights supporter but the companion of an abandoned pit bull. Who, by the way is a fun and funny loving, smart and loyal buddy. Michael Vichs is a football star and to many children throughout the country a hero. Is this the example we want our children to follow. He can not be allowed to get away with this atrocity. For the dogs and for the children I hope,if found guilty, he is given the maximum sentence for his crimes. I will be writing the NFL and as many of his sponsors that I can find.

Posted by: Lorry | July 18, 2007 09:37 AM

Has anyone thought of this? What is the I.Q. of a "dog fighting" owner and is this a factor as to why this "sport" continues in our so called enlightened society??????????????? Why do we tolerate this cruelty and elevate these people to be wellknown idols?? Are we crazy????

Posted by: J.Hall | July 18, 2007 10:10 AM

There is only ONE thing for both the Atlanta Falcons and the NFL to do
with this sick individual who is a criminal (on many accounts including MURDER)... ban Vick from Football FOR LIFE !

I don't know if we can count on our court system, specially when it comes to rich high profile individuals, most likely will not serve any prison term and a $ 350.000 fine for him is a drop in the bucket. (after all it was only dogs, they killed, tortured, electrocuted, and slammed against the ground until their brains would gush out of the animals head)

It's time for the individual teams, their owners and the NFL to finally stand up and remove all (past & present) players that have committed a crime.

I saw "sicko Vick" in Miami during the last Super Bowl, signing autographs (in the company with other NFL players also signing), dressed like "one of the hood", a "gansta", at one time during his obnoxious behavior, acting like he was
God himself, he made a cocking a gun gesture to a young boy that was tugging on his shirt to get his autograph, while he said to the kid, "back up kid, y're annoying".

If they don't, we can once again see what it's all about for the owners and their football organization... the almighty dollar.

Do the right thing:
BAN MICHAEL VICK FROM FOOTBALL FOR LIFE !

Posted by: John a footbal fan and dog lover | July 18, 2007 10:13 AM

This guy needs to be locked up for a long time. The NFL must have known about this.

Posted by: Mitch | July 18, 2007 10:25 AM

I am also personally appalled and disgusted by Vick's actions, whatever the level of his involvement in these heinous crimes. I urge PETA to stay on this on behalf of pet owners and lovers everywhere to ensure that these animals are given voices and proper justice. I will personally do whatever I can in this effort, including contacting the Falcons directly and ALL of Vick's sponsors. If found guilty, this man should be banned from football for life and given the absolute harshest sentence allowable under the law. Even that won't be enough. If there is a hell - I'm sure he is headed there....

Posted by: Nbc | July 18, 2007 10:28 AM

Thank you for putting in Michael Vick's sponsors and I too am a bit surprised that there is not more helpful information on what PETA supporters can do to rally for this horrible act. I did send an e-mail to the PETA liason and the e-mail was returned back to me by an unknown e-mail, which I did get from the PETA web-site. I know PETA will come back strong on this and I know all of us out there will rally to help! As with every other animal cruelty story my heart breaks for those animals.

Posted by: Joyce | July 18, 2007 10:30 AM

If found guilty you are right he needs to get the same punishment those poor creatures endured and then if he loses put to death in the same manner being put in jail would be too good for him unless he is put in a jail cell with a animal for the rest of his natural life
it is disgusting that anyone could do that to a animal that loves unconditionally

Posted by: pam | July 18, 2007 10:32 AM

PETA PLEASE get the ball rolling on what we can all do to respond to this brutality ASAP with as much impact as possible while it's getting such broad media coverage. It's been covered this AM on NPR at least 3 times already which has a huge listening base. I was shocked to find no course of organized action yet up here on PETA's site. Football is HUGE, and so often people put on blinders to misconduct and corruption when it involves their favorite team. Let's not let this be the case here.

Thanks to all the previous posters who have researched Vick's sponsors and listed other organizations to contact in regards to this cruelty. There are so many people who will be outraged and disgusted by this news when they hear it, but who may not be savvy enough in activism to know how to put their outrage to good use. PETA, please help us spread the word, educate, and inspire people to take a stand against this!

Posted by: kelly | July 18, 2007 10:32 AM

I am not a PETA member but a dog owner and animal lover. This story makes me angry and sick at the same time. I am firing off angry emails to the NFL, The Falcons, and all his sponsors. I just wanted to note that the email adress someone gave above for the Falcons came back as not valid. They are probubly getting so much hate mail they shut it down. I guess i will have to send it to all his corporate sponsors instead!

Posted by: David | July 18, 2007 10:38 AM

I also would like to know who are the sponsors for Mr. Vick are. Also, how do I contact the NFL comissioner to let him know that Mr. Vick should be at the very least suspended?

Posted by: William Kennedy | July 18, 2007 10:40 AM

PETA -- PROTEST, PROTEST, PROTEST -- everyone around the globe should stand up and protest if ANY team allows this guy to play professional sports again or if any sponser supports him. This guy needs to be made an example of!!!! Make his life as miserable as he made those poor animals.

Posted by: Tris | July 18, 2007 10:42 AM

Vick is a thug and a joke, granted. But would you folks be demanding similar punishment of a dog if a stray bites a child? I doubt it. Yep, these dogs didn't deserve such cruelty. I too find it interesting that PETA has this posted the story as an "oh yeah, there's this" on their website. I wonder if it had been Peyton Manning, would it be displayed differently? Any guesses?

Posted by: Mitchie | July 18, 2007 10:48 AM

Roger Goodell's info. (NFL commissioner):
email address: Roger.Goodell2@nfl.net
telephone #: (212)450-2027

Posted by: Cindy | July 18, 2007 11:02 AM

Please someone post the names of this man's sponsors because this is the only way we are going to bring him down. If he gets probation or a suspended sentence the NFL will reinstate him and make some lame excuse. There needs to be a concerted campaign to make it clear that people who watch football and people who buy products sponsored by athletes will not support anyone who engages in this horrendous activity.

Posted by: Ann Plasso | July 18, 2007 11:14 AM

I am not a member of PETA at this time but I believe in what they stand for, I really do wish that they would get more involved in this Michael Vick indictment. I think that the NFL should fire Michael Vick and that he should not be allowed to play football ever again. He is a low life person, how horrible this is that he has done to these dogs, it is a known fact that if a person would hurt a animal they would hurt children. Come on PETA put the pressure on the NFL. Thank you.

Posted by: Donna | July 18, 2007 11:24 AM

If the NFL keeps Michael Vick as a player - we all lose!!! Voice your opinions to the NFL and Atlanta Falkons website now!!!!

Posted by: Jamie Hodges | July 18, 2007 11:39 AM

I'm surprised and appalled that PETA has had information and heard rumors for years regarding Vick's dog fighting and yet choose to take no action to substantiate these allegations. Is that because Vick is a celebrity? Is it because PETA is really concerned about the animals? Historically PETA has regularly ignored the real causes of abuse in favor of rhetoric. PETA in my opinion is more interested in media coverage than abused animals. In my opinion which is substantiated by PETA's refusal to help the dogs abused by Vick and the other animals referred to in professional sports should be renamed People for the Endangerment of Today's Animals. You people are disgusting.

Posted by: Cindy | July 18, 2007 11:46 AM

Please help put Michael Vick behind bars where he can no longer hurt helpless creatures. Thank you.

Posted by: Mary | July 18, 2007 11:47 AM

"PETA’s offices, located just over an hour away from Michael Vick’s rural mansion—where we now know dozens if not hundreds of dogs were forced to fight to the death in the pit—has been receiving vague allegations of Vick’s involvement in illegal animal fighting activity for years, "

If you "KNEW" that then why the hell didn't you do something?

Posted by: Cindy | July 18, 2007 11:51 AM

I join my fellow humans in being repulsed and disgusted by Vick and his pals. I too am searching for his sponsors and will let them know - drop him or I drop them.

Posted by: Bobby Hand | July 18, 2007 11:57 AM

I CAN'T BELIEVE SOMEONE OF HIS STATURE COULD DO THAT TO DOGS- HE ABOVIOUSLY NEEDS MORE IN HIS LIFE TO KEEP BUSY-
I SURE HOPE YOU ( PETA) ARE GOING TO MAKE SURE HE GETS WHAT HE DESERVES.

Posted by: LISA ANDERSON | July 18, 2007 11:58 AM

LETTER TO THE ATLANTA FALCONS"

How can your organization sit back and NOT issue a statement about the idiot, Michael Vick, and express your disappointment of one of your players that is raking in MILLIONS EACH YEAR. "lET THE JUSTICE SYSTEM DO IT'S WORK" is a stupid thing to say about this situation.

There is a problem in this country of people using INNOCENT animals for monatary gain and this is the lowest of all.

Pitiful animals being starved, chained and MADE to fight for this idiot's personal satisfaction is a mortal sin.
don't tell me that he did not know what was going on, on the property that he OWNED, but that will be his excuse, I'm sure.

Well, then he should have known who was living on hos property and just like someone falls and hurts himself whike in my home, I AM RESPONSIBLE.

Instead of this FOOL having a children's camp or something to benefit children on his LARGE ESTATE, he runs a dog fighting ring.

His punishment should be put into a pen of pit bulls, that have been fought, starved and chained and "LET EM GO".

I WILL NEVER WATCH OR GO TO ANOTHER FALCON GAME AS LONG AS I LIVE IF YOU LET HIM GET AWAY WITH THIS AND I'M SURE THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY FAN THAT FEELS THIS WAY.

I'm sending this letter to every blog that I can find. Now get it together, stop his money, cancel his contract and get real.

Posted by: gloria stone | July 18, 2007 12:10 PM

This sickens me - something needs to be done to Micael Vick! NFL should ban him, we all need to step up and help PETA get him behind bars. Money talks but not when there are enough people standing their ground. Please call the commissioner and get Vick banned from the NFL!!!

Roger Goodell's info. (NFL commissioner):
email address: Roger.Goodell2@nfl.net
telephone #: (212)450-2027

No animal deserves that kind of cruelty!!!!!! Imagine if it was you!

Posted by: Amanda Novotny | July 18, 2007 12:17 PM

I am absolutely appalled that the HIGHEST PAID NFL player in HISTORY acts the same as some of the worst people on the planet. As if he doesn't have enough money, or tons of fans... PETA needs to make this man realize what a big deal this all is! Sit outside his house, protest the falcons, make sure he never plays another game of football in his life (unless its while he is in jail) I can only hope absolutely the worst for this awful man.

Posted by: Cara | July 18, 2007 12:19 PM

I hope the falcons fire michael vick. what a piece of crap, what he did is torture.what I can't understand is how anyone in the nfl would support him. this guy needs to be banned from nfl for life. kids look up to these sports figures. this man makes an enormous amount of money, he is in the spotlight, you would think he could conduct himself like a human, instead of a malicious animal. and for godsake quit making this a racial issue!!!!

Posted by: kim | July 18, 2007 12:32 PM

Great, now everytime I look into my beautiful Pit Bulls eyes I am going to think of this dirtbag. My personal opinion is that this "sports figure" cannot possibly portray a healthy image to our youth. He should lose all of his endorsments and his position within the NFL.

Posted by: Eric | July 18, 2007 12:33 PM

Lets just eat the dead dogs! Go FALCONS!!!!

Posted by: Joe | July 18, 2007 12:34 PM

I have written the Atlanta Falcons and the NFL to express my total disgust for the vermin Michael Vick for his horrible treatment of dogs. If only he could suffer the pain that the dogs suffered, then justice would be served.

How can anyone one be so inhumane to do such a thing ?

He should spend his life in prison. He is not fit to be in society.

Posted by: Charles Fowler | July 18, 2007 12:38 PM

I was deeply saddened to read about this. I would also like to know who sponsors Michael Vick to make sure I never buy their products again if they keep sponsoring him.

Posted by: Erin N | July 18, 2007 12:42 PM

Here are some things we can do until PETA and the Humane Society are able to mobilize a campaign to suspend Vick indefinitely.

First, go to petitiononline.com and search for Michael Vick. They have an online petition, and so far 1,200 have signed it, but we need many more signatures in order to make a difference.

Next, call Joanna Hunter with the NFL at (212) 450-2449 and give her your thoughts.

Lastly, you can email the Atlanta Falcons at feedback@fans.atlantafalcons.com
and insist that they do the right thing.

Hope this helps. Please mobilize us, PETA! We want to send a clear message that this sick behavior will not be tolerated!

Posted by: Michelle | July 18, 2007 12:43 PM

on www.11alive.com under google you can read that AirTran Airways didn't renew their contract with Michael Vick concerning this scandal!!!

Posted by: RAGE AGAINST RASCALS | July 18, 2007 12:51 PM

FYI, my email to the Falcons was just bounced back to me. I went to their website to make sure I had the right address, and it is correct. Hopefully this means they're being bombarded with messages!

Posted by: Michelle | July 18, 2007 12:52 PM

Punishment? Lets hook Vicks up to the mating device with Artest coming at him! Im disgusted and deeply saddened. Lets stay on this one and fight for the innocent!

Posted by: Cindy | July 18, 2007 12:52 PM

Peta Please show us how we can help, there are many many of us out here who are so horrified by this and we need to do something. Please get on this right away. Thank you to the many who posted with email address's and web sites. WE WANT TO HELP , so PETA please show us how

Posted by: alex | July 18, 2007 01:18 PM

If this would have been a couple of rich white business CEO's or a couple of southern rednecks PETA would be all over the media and camping out at the Falcon's doorstep! What a double standard...PETA this is your chance, but you will blow it due to your political bias.

Posted by: Greg | July 18, 2007 01:22 PM

Wow. Do you people know that if your ancestors were all vegetarians you wouldn't be alive today? Humans eat meat. We always have, that is why our teeth are shaped the way they are - morons.

I am against staged animal fighting - yes. But, come one people. This is not worth banning him from the NFL.

Go buy some really good BBQ sauce, slow broil some ribs, put them on the BBQ, invite some more of your animal loving friends over for a good old fashion backyard grill. Enjoy life you lame, didn't have any friends while growing up, my priest touched me now I'm messed up in the head, black sheep, unwanted family member vegetarians.

Posted by: Todd | July 18, 2007 01:26 PM

A protest of all Vick's sponsers should be held until they and the NFL cut all affiliations with Vick. Because sadly he only faces up to 6 years in prison, not that huge of a penalty, but we really need to hit him where it hurts, in the pocketbook!!!!

Posted by: Ruthie Alexander | July 18, 2007 01:32 PM

I just sent an email to Atlanta Falcons through their online form and it seemed to go through. After I sent it I was looking at their site and noticed they have the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation... What a great example they have provided for the youth that they are mentoring!

Posted by: Angela | July 18, 2007 01:34 PM

Cindy, Vick was just indicted yesterday. Like any other American facing a criminal charge he is considered innocent until proven guilty (which shouldn't be that hard to do). Now is the time to act and mount a massive campaign to get his endorsement deals severed (companies wouldn't have lifted a finger in the past based solely on "vague allegations"). Now is also the time to make the general public acutely aware of the atrocities of dog-fighting, and other types of animal fighting.

Posted by: Mike | July 18, 2007 01:36 PM

The humane society web site has a letter that you can and sign to the NFL. Every go there and support this effort to make sure Mike Vick is punished.

Posted by: paul | July 18, 2007 01:40 PM

Help! I tried to get in touch w/ some Vick sponsers this morning and am having a hard time. The Atlanta Falcons was easy to contact via e-mail, Nfl organization, I could not find an appropriate contact site, Nike.com, I could not find a contact site.Wendys constact site is "down". I called Wendys, was on hold for an hour, when customer service answered I told them I was trying to complain about Vick, because he was listed on Peta's site, they said, "well Peta has killed thousands of animals" Can you belive it? After trying for 3 hours I gave up. Please could someone compile a site which lists all sponsors, and the best way to get in touch with them.One positive on Nfl site, 99.9% of comments are crucifying him, and want him fired, which considering the macho members, was the best news of my day.

Posted by: nan mcclain | July 18, 2007 01:43 PM

Todd, have you ever looked at a cat's teeth. Not just the fangs at the front (which I take it you don't have), but the back teeth. Their back teeth are peaked to shear flesh. Now if you look in the mirror, your back teeth (I presume) are flat for grinding food, like grains, fruits and vegetables. And why are you cooking your meat, and using a knife and fork? Just sink your claws into it and have at it with your carnivore's teeth.

Posted by: Anonymous | July 18, 2007 01:49 PM

tried to contact nfl at Roger.goodell2@nfl.net as indicated in coment section. Says there is no such web site.

Posted by: nan mcclain | July 18, 2007 01:57 PM

Michael Vick is a very sick individual. If you look at the indictment he had a "rape stand" where females were tied and forced to mate with males!! Arthur Blank owns the Falcons and I emailed his foundation to urge him to get rid of Michael Vick as he tortures poor dogs. The email is:GrantInquiries [GrantInquiries@ambfo.com]
Let's send emails to encourage Arthur Blake to do the right thing!!

Posted by: Janice Chytra | July 18, 2007 02:02 PM

I love animals...they are delicious.

Posted by: Anonymous | July 18, 2007 02:07 PM

see mike vick later for atleast this season, the commisioner won't stand for this sort thing.

Posted by: C Edens | July 18, 2007 02:07 PM

I can only hope that everyone here, go to the official sites of the NFl,and of the Atlanta Falcons and email them your statements. Hopefully, if we flood them with emails, they will fire him immediately.

Posted by: Shirley | July 18, 2007 02:21 PM

I live in Atlanta and I plan on protesting at FLowery Branch if he isn't suspended. Anyone else?

Posted by: Janis | July 18, 2007 02:25 PM

it's called an indictment, not a conviction. our government was also convinced (or so they claimed) that there were WMDs in Iraq (as if that would justify a war crime), but lookie that - turned out to be completely false. but that wasn't a few hundred animals being killed - it was only a few hundred thousand humans killed.

how about, you know, innocent until proven guilty? how about, you know, let's see the evidence? i know he's only a professional black athlete and all, but still.

as for PeTA's involvement, or lack thereof, I'm not sure how it's possible to hide behind a 'flimsy evidence' defense for _years_. dude is from your town - go investigate - hire a PI - get someone on the inside - contact Vick to tell him your heard this and that and 'you hope it is not true' - this is just not rocket science - there were myriad ways PeTA could have been involved in shutting down that operation. what else are you doing w/ my subscription money?

Posted by: Peter | July 18, 2007 02:31 PM

There was an excellent report on this on Anderson Cooper 360 last night:

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2007/07/18/griffin.dog.fighting.cnn

(sorry I can't hyperlink it...just cut-and-paste)

This isn't just about protecting these animals...this is about a vile, criminal enterprise encompassing drugs, gangs, guns, gambling, etc. And the worst part is that children are being exposed to this.

Posted by: BullyDawg | July 18, 2007 02:34 PM

to Todd:
carnivors have short intestines to evacuate the meat poisons quickly - humans have like the other vegetarians long intestines for a long digestion of veggies!
carnivors have teeth and claws for to catch the prey -
humans have flat teeth like other vegetarians for to grind the corn and veggies!
carnivors all sweat from their tongue -
humans sweat like all the vegetarians from the body!

but the most remarkable thing is that all the vegetarian species including the human have a much longer life than the carnivors species!

Posted by: The Vegetarian | July 18, 2007 02:35 PM

Where is PETA? Why are they not reacting?

The communications director (Reggie Roberts) for the Falcons telephone number is 1-800-241-3489.

The owner is Arthur Blank.
His office is: 404-367-2100

Posted by: coolfusion | July 18, 2007 02:37 PM

Check the Humane Society's website.www.hsus.org

Posted by: afratus | July 18, 2007 02:39 PM

I am an Atlanta Falcons fan, and have been a fan of Michael Vick since college. I am not a PETA member and do not normally post here. I think it is appropriate to go after Vick's sponsors at this time, and also appropriate to pressure the NFL to take action on this issue, although you must realize that the NFL cannot do anything without a conviction, not can the Falcons fire or suspend Vick without any conviction. Punishing the NFL or Falcons for not firing Vick does not make sense, as they cannot legally do that. This is still America and we are innocent until proven guitly, just like you cannot be fired from your job because you are accused of a crime. Having said that, I hope the Falcons choose to not start Vick, and let Joey Harrington take the reigns. That IS within their legal rights, and would be appropriate based on the level of alligations. You guys should also be aware at the many NFL players who have come out in support of Vick, saying, "If he wants to fight dogs, that's his choice, leave him alone." This tells me it is a very acceptage "hobby" in certain subcultures, and something that really needs to be addressed at a much larger level in sports.

I also think the criticism of Ron Artest is a bit over the top, especially comparing his actions to the alledged actions of Mike Vick.

Posted by: Paul | July 18, 2007 02:41 PM

Hmmm...It seems that alot of people are jumping to conclusions...maybe you should wait until he is convicted before passing judgement....innocent until proven guilty..not the other way around...the burden of proof is on the state...not Vick!

Posted by: Anonymous | July 18, 2007 02:42 PM

Peta,
We need to have been given more information on this mental midget.
He and his group are nothing
but a bunch of Bottom Feeders.
We also need to be given more information about the slaughtering of the horses.
I have been recieving information about the horses
from so many groups everyday.
I have been sent phone #'s
everyday to call in every state.
I call at least 30 Rep's and Senators daily.
I am on this site every single day, you need your people to get on the ball.
To call Reps and senators, it takes about 3 to 4 hours a
day even less.
Remember, one step at a time.
After the horses are free, it shall be time to set the farm animals free.
I just finshed a great book.
The title is, "Igniting a
Revolution."
Also a great read is The World Peace Diet, written by Will Tuttle.com
He and his wonderful wife are absolutely heaven sent.
Please do not miss these books.
Also go to Lantern books.com
You shall never regret these books.....
Take care,
Judith
The Buddhist

Posted by: Judith, Freedom Fighter | July 18, 2007 02:48 PM

I was so angry when I first heard about this.
What I want to know is what products are endorsed by this individual and what kind of actions for boycott can we do to prevent this person from making money.

Posted by: Ana | July 18, 2007 02:51 PM

Dear Anonymous,
How does it feel to be one of Vicks, "BOTTOM FEEDERS."?
I can just see your family photos now.

"BOTTOM FEEDERS RULE"

What a beautiful family you
must have.
LMAO
Take care sweetie.....

Posted by: Judith, Freedom Fighter | July 18, 2007 03:01 PM

Here are the endorsement deals that Michael Vick currently has:
NIKE
EA SPORTS
POWERADE
KRAFT
RAWLINGS
HASBRO (children's toys)

Give 'em hell!

Posted by: Jill | July 18, 2007 03:03 PM

I am appalled by Nike....After, I emailed them I recieved this response:
"Thank you for contacting us regarding Michael Vick.

There is no change in the status of the agreement between Nike and
football player Michael Vick. Nike will continue to monitor the situation,
but has nothing further to say at this time.

We appreciate that you took the time to contact us and your feedback will be passed along to the proper department."

I can't believe they are not dropping him immediately. I will definitely be boycotting Nike from now on until they drop their contract with Vick.

Posted by: Shirley L. Thomas | July 18, 2007 03:09 PM

This is incredible news. Hopefully a high profile case like this will push the issue of illegal dog fighting to the forefront and gain some publicity for PETA as well! Michael Vick is one incredibly sick and twisted individual...add money and power to the situation and call it a monster.

Posted by: J.C. | July 18, 2007 03:15 PM

How about before you get all hell bent on boycotting these places you give them a chance to ditch Vick if he is found guilty? Just a thought...

Posted by: egami | July 18, 2007 03:22 PM

So with Vick out, the Falcons are pretty much done for the season. Joey Harrington is horrible and there's no way they can recover. Had they kept Matt Schaub they would have had a chance. Now they'll have to rely on an actual running game because this year their QB isn't doing all the rushing.

Oh, and dog fighting is bad blah blah blah.

Posted by: Innocent until proven guilty | July 18, 2007 03:24 PM

So with Vick out, the Falcons are pretty much done for the season. Joey Harrington is horrible and there's no way they can recover. Had they kept Matt Schaub they would have had a chance. Now they'll have to rely on an actual running game because this year their QB isn't doing all the rushing.

Oh, and dog fighting is bad blah blah blah.

Posted by: Innocent until proven guilty | July 18, 2007 03:24 PM

how sad for all the dogs that were abused, makes me sick, I hope NFL gets rid of him, what a sad example for all humans

Posted by: cheryl | July 18, 2007 03:25 PM

Cindy's comments are about the most ridiculous I've seen- somehow "blaming" Peta for this.

First of all, Cindy dear, there was NO federal law to deal with this until recently (did you write to YOUR legislators and support that? Peta encouraged us all to)

Second, the STATE authorities are responsible for prosecuting these crimes in their area. However, many state laws are lax when it comes to dog fighting, not to mention problems with local prosecutors like Poindexter in Virginia who look the other way, cover it it up, hamper investigations, or worse! (In some states, law enforcement and court authorities have been personally involved in dog fighting, and they still are!)

It is only because LAWS are being improved and created that these people can be busted.

And because the public is finally demanding that dog fighting stop.

Blame your fellow Americans who ignored the dog fighting issue in the past.

Posted by: kelly | July 18, 2007 03:33 PM

Todd you are the lam moron, apparently you didn’t have any friends growing up and probably not many now. This has nothing to do with being a vegetarian but the cruelty of these dogs. How can you be against animal fighting but not against the person responsibly for the fights? If someone killed a member of your family, then you’re against murder but the person who committed the crime should not be punished. Are you such an idiot thinking that’s it’s all about banning him from the NFL. There’s a saying: You can take the girl out of the country but you can’t take the country out of the girl. In his case; you can take the boy out of the ghetto but you can’t take the ghetto out of Michael Vick. He is a disgrace to men and you’re placing yourself right down there with him. He and all that were involved deserve the highest punishment by the courts and then some. Pit bulls are loving animals, its people like Michael Vick and many others that have given this breed a bad name. I hope PETA, the media and other organizations raise their voices to put a stop to the inhumane and cruelty of fighting pit bulls or any animals.

Posted by: Kathy | July 18, 2007 03:43 PM

I agree with Shirley Thomas, I also just emailed Nike and let them know that I would be boycotting their products. In fact, I just sent back a pair of shoes I purchased last week. All we can do is put the pressure on Nike and maybe they will respond. PLEASE EVERYONE write Nike and let them know they need to dump this lowlife. Nike is Michael Vicks biggest sponsor and they need to know how enraged we all are by this!!

Posted by: Maritza | July 18, 2007 03:43 PM

I am curious what evidence PETA has of the following in your write up? "The professional sports world is plagued with players who have been accused, charged, or convicted of cruelty to animals, abusing pit bulls, and dog fighting..." I haven't heard of too many instances, however given Clinton Portis comments I wonder how pervasive this problem is. I wonder how one intervenes in this particular culture (dog fighting)? This may be an opportunity for a public discussion to cease this activity. Let's not convict him until if he actually is convicted-- but if he is I hope he receives extensive jail time.

Posted by: Ron | July 18, 2007 03:46 PM

Michael Vick and the other freaks that will be charged in this case are obviously psychopaths and should be tortured in the exact same manner those poor dogs were.

Posted by: vickhater | July 18, 2007 03:49 PM

..a follow up comment to my e mail. It would be helpful if you obtain and post his business endorsement e mail addresses at the bottom of the article (for easy access by users). I do believe that although not convicted yet of these crimes, that there is enough evidence that people should contact his sponsors and express their disapproval.

Posted by: Ron | July 18, 2007 03:50 PM

I believe that Michael Vick should be accorded his due process rights as with any other person. It is unfair for all of you to crucify this man before he has been convicted. Anyway, those of you who claim to be boycotting Nike and other companies Michael Vick endorses are full of crap, I doubt you even buy their products, therefore your "boycott" doesn't mean anything to anyone except that it allows you to feel smug in your narrow minded and reactionary ways.

Posted by: Miguel Thailand | July 18, 2007 03:53 PM

I am disgusted beyond words. This seems to be a common behaviors from the macho players such as the NFL organizations. Somehow, by torturing the defendless animals give them powers to their beasthood (which they routinely mistaken to be manhood). Another similar case is some player whose name I do not recall chained his dog up at the attic for months at a time without feeding it. Finally, the neighbor reported him. But nothing was done to the crime. I am glad that the congressman from California has written to the Falcon organization to ask them to take immediate actions. We have dogs whom I would personally die for to protect, I do not know why these types of behaviors are ok to our society today.

Posted by: Anne Lam | July 18, 2007 03:54 PM

This incident is absolutely disgusting! As a leader and a role model to not only our youth but many football fans an example needs to be made of Vick. A message needs to be sent out that you cannot get away with these repulsive acts no matter how famous you are. I hope PETA and other animal rights groups are able to apply enough pressure to make this message heard. Tell me where to sign, donate, show up, write to, etc and I'll do it. There is power in numbers!

Posted by: Ashley | July 18, 2007 04:00 PM

Please lead the charge against this horrible man! I am not a vegan or anything but as a dog lover, I was appalled to read about what he was doing in Virginia. Any psychologist will tell you that most dangerous criminals began their brutal way of life by practicing their techniques on pets. this is a sickening situation & he deserves to be punished severly for it. I have written Nike & would very much like to know who his other sponsors are. Regardless of whether he is convicted, these dogs suffered on his property. I do not believe there are too many people who think he is innocent of what was going on. he should have to pay the consequences!

Posted by: Melody | July 18, 2007 04:01 PM

If the Falcons treated Michael Vick the way he treated these dogs, he would be in for a big surprise the first time he lost a game.

The NFL can ban this sociopath. So, if you only send one email, make it to the NFL. The Falcons and the prosecuters should hear from us too. Once he is banned, contact arena football too!

Conservatives and football fans are upset too. Glenn Beck spent a lot of time today on his radio show expressing outrage and comparing Vick to a serial killer. I think his TV show will hit this tonight.

Let's hope this sicko gets put away and his young fans don't get started in this kind of criminally insane behavior.

Posted by: Tex | July 18, 2007 04:04 PM

Vick's corporate sponsors, including Nike, Rawlings, Hasbro, Easton Sports, and Kraft.

Posted by: Lee Shaw | July 18, 2007 04:08 PM

Repost of Vick's Sponsors, from "Jill" above:

Here are the endorsement deals that Michael Vick currently has:
"NIKE
EA SPORTS
KRAFT
RAWLINGS
HASBRO (children's toys)"

Also, REEBOK sells numerous replica Vick jerseys and there is a logo for Air Tran Airways on his official site, but they dumped him in late May.

Posted by: eric | July 18, 2007 04:14 PM

Called Hasbro and they claimed that they didn't renew his contract sometime in the recent past.

Posted by: coolfusion | July 18, 2007 04:15 PM

I'm from Atlanta and already wrote an e-mail to the Atlanta Falcons about getting rid of this guy. I also sent an e-mail to the NFL commissioner. I encourage all of you to do the same. Your e-mails do make a difference.

feedback@atlantafalcons.com

Posted by: Dana Lopez | July 18, 2007 04:22 PM

as a pet owner, what mr vick did was appauling...There is no place in any sport for the kind of person he is.....As a role model for so many young people....And for someone that was given so much........He is not a role model, nor an athlete.....he has done horrible things, and deserves the harshest punishment available.

Posted by: Charles Franco | July 18, 2007 04:28 PM

Call NFL's Commissioner Roger Goodell at 1-212-450-2000 to ask that Vick be suspended. This is working as when I asked for the Commissioner's office, they asked, "Is this in regards to Michael Vick"!!! This is how we can put the pressure on!

Posted by: John Minton | July 18, 2007 04:31 PM

BAN THE DEED NOT THE BREED

Posted by: Ryan | July 18, 2007 04:42 PM

re. PAul's post: WRONG!!!!

"although you must realize that the NFL cannot do anything without a conviction, not can the Falcons fire or suspend Vick without any conviction. Punishing the NFL or Falcons for not firing Vick does not make sense, as they cannot legally do that. This is still America and we are innocent until proven guitly, just like you cannot be fired from your job because you are accused of a crime. Having said that, I hope the Falcons choose to not start Vick, and let Joey Harrington take the reigns. That IS within their legal rights, and would be appropriate based on the level of alligations. You guys should also be aware at the many NFL players who have come out in support of Vick, saying, "If he wants to fight dogs, that's his choice, leave him alone." This tells me it is a very acceptage "hobby" in certain subcultures, and something that really needs to be addressed at a much larger level in sports."

The NFL suspended Pac Man Jones and he hasn't been convicted of ANYTHING yet. The league can and does suspend players for behavior unbecoming an NFL representative.

Posted by: John Minton | July 18, 2007 04:43 PM

The problem is that 350k is a joke to him, people with that kind of money wont learn their lesson until they spend A LOT of time in jail and it hurts their pocket! Raise the fines and restitution to 4 million dollars and lets watch how may of those dog fighting rings come to an end!!!!

Posted by: Amanda M | July 18, 2007 04:58 PM