They do PSAs like that with people who have hurt or killed others while driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs. I think it can be very powerful, and it certainly does not glorify the bad behaviour, nor does it allow the perpetrator to get off easily. I say go for it (as long as the script remains as you have proposed).

Posted by: Michele | October 4, 2007 05:26 PM

I wouldn't have an issue with a Vick PSA, but I would have major issue if he was paid for the PSA or it appears as though "all is forgiven."

Personally I think he's sorry, but only because he got caught.

Posted by: Debbie | October 4, 2007 05:35 PM

There needs to be more to the script. I think it should also refer to the regret and guilt he feels towards the dogs that he had harmed & the cruelty of his actions.

Posted by: JT | October 4, 2007 06:15 PM

I would rather not see his face but would be ok: ONLY if he uses the proposed script.

Posted by: Teresa Saeed | October 4, 2007 06:34 PM

If you must ... let him do the PSA AFTER he's done the time.

If before then ... well, obviously it's going to affect the severity of his sentence -- to his advantage. F*^k that.

Please, PETA, you know this fool is playing you just like he played his NFL owners. DO NOT enable this monster any further. This is really, really upsetting. Besides, that script does not even begin to do justice to what he did to all of those animals. They're merely an aside. F**k him and his "... career, income, respect, friends." No more scripted apologies from this sociopath. 15 seconds of a scripted, half-a*& apology is not worth him receiving a lighter sentence. He needs to pay the price of his actions in the most profound way possible. Nothing else is acceptable.

Posted by: VestaGirl | October 4, 2007 07:10 PM

if this would happen that be great

Posted by: tanya | October 4, 2007 07:19 PM

You know, PETA is becoming psycho. I do value human life above an animal's life. And by all means, I don't believe people should hurt a helpless animal, but by pushing your beliefs on how people should eat is ridiculous. Not only that, but by suggesting that a person should go through a process to adopt a pet is even more crazy. I hope this is just a rumor that you are urging K-Fed to fight to take Brittney's pets. You know, K-Fed has kids to deal with and that's enough. If you're so worried about those dogs then go to her house and take them. You're one step away from needing your extremists to be locked up as well. Now if we can only get this involved with saving soldier lives that fight for your rights to extremely pester people who are not harming animals then we would be getting on a much more logical track. Because I just can't see the justice in leaving an animal tons of money that doesn't have a level of intelligence to take care of itself with that money. Let alone the fact that it most likely would have done more good in the hands of hungry and homeless people that I see on the streets everyday.

Posted by: Whatever | October 4, 2007 07:40 PM

October 4, 2007 - It is over 800 years later, and a wealthy young man - who chose to live a life of humble poverty - is still imitated by some, honored by others, and affectionately known by many. A unique grace was bestowed upon him by his Creator - the Creator of all life - in order for him to carry out his mission...(in part), his mission of spreading the message of peace and respect for ALL life. He had the most extreme beliefs that most people could not imagine and often scoffed at him. Since he was sincerely humble, he joyfully accepted all contempt directed towards him. Yet his beliefs strongly continue to survive to this very day. He believed that the sun, the moon, the stars, trees, flowers, water, fire, and all the animals are our brothers and sisters - because they are all created by the same Creator. He preached to the flowers and to the birds. He befriended the animals with kindness and respect, and they showed their love for him.
Despite his poverty and unusual beliefs, he has the most schools, hospitals, institutions, groups and more, named in his honor - and even a big U.S. city is named in his honor - to which he would denounce all such glorification because of being known for his total humility.
Today is his Feast Day. His name is St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of the animals and environment.

To celebrate his life and his beliefs on this occasion, people bring their animals to Church for them to receive the blessing of St. Francis.
And it is said: "As he walked through the streets of Umbria (Italy) over 800 years ago, so too he walks through the hearts of people today."

Posted by: Ariel | October 4, 2007 07:59 PM

If this is the PSA you want MV to do, you are a bunch of sick people. You are nothing short of terrorists. As long as MV has God, he has every thing he needs. God is watching and making note. Your judgment day will come.

Posted by: Ariel | October 4, 2007 08:17 PM

Michael Vick, you are not a loser. Keep your head up and make a come back. God forgives. PETA, take a look at all the other animal that have feelings that people mistreat. What about the research labs, the abortions clinics, the deer hunters, the annual mullet fish toss in Alabama. There are greyhound racing dogs breed for racing only for personal greed and then put to sleep after they can no longer run. I can give you 25 examples and 25 places where animal are mistreated. Do something about the mistreatment of Black Men in this world. Maybe someone should pay for slavery of Black Men and Women. The white actor stated in the movie Mississippi Burning! How can man kill an innocent deer, God beloved creature. Now a Nigger, that taly a different matter. Wake up all you, think you are so good and right people . Michael Vick, I don't agree with dog fighting and I don't agree with the way you are being treated.

RJ Walker
US NAVY Seal
Retired

Posted by: Richard J. Walker | October 4, 2007 08:53 PM

I have been having a hard time trying to understand why you would be hand in hand with this man for anything. He could spew out anything he wants at this point and I simply do not believe him.

Posted by: sherri | October 4, 2007 09:38 PM

HELL YES!!!!

Posted by: Jen | October 4, 2007 09:44 PM

Uh, I think that disgusting piece of s**t should also add something about animals having feelings, and people shouldn't harm them in any way.

After all, that is what PETA is all about, isn't it?

Those words imply that you should not do dog fighting cause it makes *you* , the person, look bad.

Who gives a crap about that?

Yes that's part of it, but the animals' feelings should also be included.

Posted by: Tamara | October 4, 2007 10:31 PM

I say go with it ONLY if mVick is genuinely sincere in the effort and determined to make a difference!

ps perhaps more emphasis on the cruelty aspect, and how really SICK dogfighting is?!

Posted by: 007 | October 4, 2007 11:20 PM

NO. This PSA is out of line. Peta is going way to far with this PSA. Asking Michael Vick to make that statement is out of line. Peta is out to Michael Vick look really stupid.

Posted by: Brian Gaston | October 4, 2007 11:33 PM

YES!!!
I love the script!

Posted by: Jason Levy | October 4, 2007 11:57 PM

I think Michael Vick SHOULD do campaigning for PETA, BUT he should make NO MONEY for it.

Posted by: Despina Rosales | October 5, 2007 12:08 AM

Just in case we need these awesome quotes:

"For as long as men massacre animals, they will kill each other. Indeed, he who sows the seed of murder and pain cannot reap joy and love."
         Pythagoras, mathematician
    "The time will come when men such as I will look upon the murder of animals as they now look on the murder of men."
          Leonardo da Vinci, artist and scientist

    "To a man whose mind is free there is something even more intolerable in the sufferings of animals than in the sufferings of man. For with the latter it is at least admitted that suffering is evil and that the man who causes it is a criminal. But thousands of animals are uselessly butchered every day without a shadow of remorse. If any man were to refer to it, he would be thought ridiculous. And that is the unpardonable crime."
        Romain Rolland, author, Nobel Prize 1915

    "If a group of beings from another planet were to land on Earth -- beings who considered themselves as superior to you as you feel yourself to be to other animals -- would you concede them the rights over you that you assume over other animals?"
          George Bernard Shaw, playwright, Nobel Prize 1925

    "What is it that should trace the insuperable line? ...The question is not, Can they reason? nor, Can they talk? but, Can they suffer?"
        Jeremy Bentham, philosopher

    "In their behavior toward creatures, all men are Nazis. Human beings see oppression vividly when they're the victims. Otherwise they victimize blindly and without a thought."
          Isaac Bashevis Singer, author, Nobel Prize 1978

    "Our task must be to free ourselves . . . by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty."
    "Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances of survival for life on earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet."
          Albert Einstein, physicist, Nobel Prize 1921

    "I am in favor of animal rights as well as human rights. That is the way of a whole human being."
          Abraham Lincoln, 16th U.S. President

    "You have just dined, and however scrupulously the slaughterhouse is concealed in the graceful distance of miles, there is complicity."
          Ralph Waldo Emerson, essayist

    "As long as there are slaughterhouses, there will be battlefields."
   "What I think about vivisection is that if people admit that they have the right to take or endanger the life of living beings for the benefit of many, there will be no limit to their cruelty."
          Leo Tolstoy author

    "I cannot fish without falling a little in self-respect...always when I have done I feel it would have been better if I had not fished."
          Henry David Thoreau, author

    "While we ourselves are the living graves of murdered beasts, how can we expect any ideal conditions on this earth?"
   "Atrocities are not less atrocities when they occur in laboratories and are called medical research."
          George Bernard Shaw

    "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
    "To my mind, the life of a lamb is no less precious than that of a human being."
        Mahatma Gandhi, statesman and philosopher

    "I am not interested to know whether vivisection produces results that are profitable to the human race or doesn't...The pain which it inflicts upon unconsenting animals is the basis of my enmity toward it, and it is to me sufficient justification of the enmity without looking further."
          Mark Twain, author

     "Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which is the goal of all evolution. Until we stop harming all other living beings, we are still savages."
        Thomas Edison, inventor

Posted by: Jen | October 5, 2007 01:23 AM

Yes, this is the only way Mr. Vick could prove himself

Posted by: Deekay Lee | October 5, 2007 03:27 AM

I do not see why Michael Vick would have to say all of that negative stuff about himself in the PSA. Yes of course it's all true and implied, but is it really neccessary to state it again? PETA must have seen some hope in Vick if they asked him to enroll in the Empathy for animals course.

A Michael Vick PSA would be greatly helpful in the cause to eliminate dogfighting--even if the star of the PSA has done the mistake himself before.

For the Martha Stewart PSA, you never asked her to say "I was a dumb twit who was to blinded by my own horrific fashion choices to realize the plight of animals tortured to provide me these furry garments."

Posted by: alvin | October 5, 2007 04:17 AM

Ummm, okay...now after meeting with this scumbag Peta is "acting" like it really cares about dogs. I will never support Peta again after it met with Vick. All Vick wanted is to meet with Peta so he can get less jail time. Ingrid Newkirk cares more about meeting with celebrities than she cares about animals. You really have done something this time that you won't be able to overcome.

Posted by: Joshua | October 5, 2007 09:11 AM

i think the script's message is obvious without allowing Michael Vick to get more publicity by doing a PSA.

Posted by: Tiffany | October 5, 2007 09:26 AM

It's a little hard to believe that Mr. Vick would go from rape stands and hanging dogs to doing a PSA for PETA in good faith. However, it's not my place to judge him and if he IS in good faith with this, then he could have a huge impact in spreading the word about the horrors of dogfighting, particularly with the young kids who look up to him. Many convicts, for example, have been role models in talking kids out of a life of crime because they HAVE the "street cred" to convince them. If Mr. Vick is sincere in this, I think it might be a worthwhile thing to do.

Posted by: Susannah S | October 5, 2007 10:26 AM

Looks to me as if you're not concern with Dog fighting. Your scrip says ha! We got another one. And you know what I mean. Should I spell it out. Modern day Racist. You will overcome this issue MV. I'll be there in your support.

Posted by: Shydog | October 5, 2007 10:31 AM

My commentary to RJ Walker's post:

"Michael Vick, you are not a loser. Keep your head up and make a come back. God forgives."
Ok.

"PETA, take a look at all the other animal that have feelings that people mistreat."
Yes, PETA does this.

"What about the research labs, the abortions clinics, the deer hunters, the annual mullet fish toss in Alabama. There are greyhound racing dogs breed for racing only for personal greed and then put to sleep after they can no longer run."
Yes, PETA investigates and campaigns against these, too.

"I can give you 25 examples and 25 places where animal are mistreated."
Great, you know the issues.

"Do something about the mistreatment of Black Men in this world."
PETA stands for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Their mission is to reduce cruelty to animals. You can't expect them to go after all the world's problems.

Are you making the connection of Michael Vick being black? PETA would go after any famous dog fighter, no matter his or her race.

"Maybe someone should pay for slavery of Black Men and Women. The white actor stated in the movie Mississippi Burning! How can man kill an innocent deer, God beloved creature. Now a Nigger, that taly a different matter."
That's an extremely ignorant sentiment, but this has nothing to do with PETA. I understand, though, that you are making the point that animals are the only ones being treated unfairly in our society. I agree, but helping *animals* is the stated mission of PETA. There are organizations with stated missions for social justice out there that are dealing with issues you want to see dealt with.

"Wake up all you, think you are so good and right people ."
We're working to help reduce animal abuse and suffering. You, yourself, say you are against dogfighting. What's the problem? Yes, some animal rights activists are smug and annoying, I know. But, it's not fair to group us all into this category, because most of us are down-to-earth, caring, and humble. Seeing as how you are probably tired of african-american stereotypes, you can understand how animal activist/ vegan stereotypes can be wrong, too!

"Michael Vick, I don't agree with dog fighting and I don't agree with the way you are being treated."
Vick pled guilty to, along with three others, operating an unlawful six-year long interstate dog fighting venture known as "Bad Newz Kennels" at his 15-acre property. Why do you not agree with dog fighting, but not agree in how he is being punished? What about his treatment bothers you? Can you elaborate?

Posted by: Melissa | October 5, 2007 10:42 AM

This PSA would be beneficial seeing that the nature of most humans is extreme self-centeredness. Most people will make change based on what THEY can get out of it. We have a VERY ignorant populace in this country,(ie: 60 million Bush voters unwilling to do 2 minutes of independent neutral research that would've made them vote for ANY other candidate,ABB). Peta is well aware of the nature of most people and must adjust their outreach accordingly.

Posted by: Gerry Ardigliano | October 5, 2007 11:03 AM

No, The only reason he would do it so everyone wouldnt hate him, hes not really sorry at all just sorry because he got caught, then what act like nothing happend and forgive him??
i dont think its aa good idea

Posted by: Courtney Bankowski | October 5, 2007 11:13 AM

No, The only reason he would do it so everyone wouldnt hate him, hes not really sorry at all just sorry because he got caught, then what act like nothing happend and forgive him??
i dont think its aa good idea

Posted by: Courtney Bankowski | October 5, 2007 11:13 AM

To: ALL

I, Ariel, the very same animal rights' activist - who has frequently commented on this blog site - submitted my comments about St. Francis of Assisi that are posted on 10-4-07 at 7:59 pm.
Upon reading today's comments, much to my surprise, there are comments posted immediately beneath mine, by an "Ariel," 10-4-07 at 8:17 pm - which ironically has a "religious" theme - but I am NOT the "Ariel" who composed and submitted that post.

To: "Ariel" (post 10-4-07, at 8:17 pm)
It is obvious that YOU are hypocritical since YOU JUDGED US as being "a bunch of sick people." "You are nothing short of terrorists." Then you end with: "Your judgement day will come."
So which is it, "Ariel," are you our judge or is God?

Posted by: Ariel | October 5, 2007 11:24 AM

Jen,
The quotes are beautiful and
so very true.

VestaGirl, writes just how I feel.

I shall always support PETA.

Posted by: Judith, Freedom Fighter | October 5, 2007 11:41 AM

Thank you Ariel and Jen!!! Your posts were so uplifting. Nice to know we, animal advocates, are in such good company!!!

Peace!

Whatever

Since you are so concerned why don't you feed the homeless and the hungry with your own money. Better yet, why don't you let them into your home. Why are the soldiers in Iraq?? They are not fighting for my freedom but are there on George Bush's mandate. Leave all of your money to the homeless and hungry in your will, that should make you feel better.

Walker

You are on the wrong blog, the NAACP does things for the benefit of the Black Man. Who should pay for the enslavement of black men and women? Blacks? Blacks are the ones who enslaved other blacks in Africa since ancient times. It was blacks that sold enslaved blacks to white Europeans for cooking utensils and weapons. Maybe you should visit Africa and ask for recompense. Many black church leaders have repeatedly said that black men should take responsibility for their children by supporting them financially and also start marrying the women black men impregnate. Blacks in general should stay in school and not drop out. Oppression is wrong no matter who suffers and the other animals suffer greatly at the hands of humans from every walk of life, race and religion.

Posted by: Ana | October 5, 2007 12:53 PM

I have always supported activist groups like PETA and the Humane society but, this has gone too far. I do not agree with anyone that will promote violence against humans. When I read the comments from PETA supporters they are violent in their responses. I fear what the supporters will do to people not dogs. I agree that Michael Vick was wrong in participating in dogfighting, but it does not justify humans treating another human like an animal and degrading him by asking him to make such an absurd PSA announcement. He is still an American citizen and he has legal rights and regardless of what you think he is still a man. The courts have declared his punishment, he will serve his time in jail and he will pay any applicable fines. In my opinion, PETA has exploited this situation for selfish motives and personal gains. I appreciate doglovers and I understand the reaction to this situation, but we still have to act like civilized humans and be mindful of the message that we are sending to our children. We should never teach a child to hate another adult. We all make mistakes. He will pay for his crime, but PETA wants Mike Vick to crawl and beg like an animal but be a spokesman for them at the same time. This is twisted. He is a Human Being and even with all the wrong he has done, he still has a right to be redeemed. Think of your own children that make mistakes, would you want them to be treated like an outcast of society. This is America, and our laws are set up to punish people who break the law, but the whole purpose of the justice system is to rehabilitate and change the wrongful thinking and misdeeds of the violater. I no longer respect the efforts of Peta and what you represent, because your actions are unethical. Honestly ask yourselves are your actions any better than the dogfighters. From what I see, you are just as inhumane. Just because you represent a good cause, it does not mean that you have a license to be inhumane. There are more creative ways to get out your message rather than expoliting Micheal Vick. A positive message will have greater impact than using a twisted marketing scheme. Two wrongs do not make a right. I have greater respect for your cause if your message is positive. Dogfighting is not about Michael Vick alone. You have the attention of America your message will be heard without attacking another human. You are now the celebrity because of Michael Vick's involvement and America is now watching you. What will you do with your newfound celebrity?

GLT - Atlanta, GA

Posted by: GLT - Atlanta GA | October 5, 2007 01:20 PM

To RJ Walker, Retired Navy Seal:

Why would an animal protection organization campaign about securing the rights of African Americans? Have you also asked your local animal shelter to take in homeless people? Have you asked the American Cancer Society to start a campaign about diabetes? Should Save the Children also save the whales? Your comments don't even make any sense. And I encourage you to do a simple search of PETA's website for all the other issues you mention (hunting, fishing, greyhounds, etc.). I'll guarantee they've already taken on pretty much every animal-protection issue you can think of.

Posted by: Susan R. Davis | October 5, 2007 01:41 PM

ARE YOU PEOPLE NUTS! ALL THIS DOES IS HELP VICK GET BACK INTO THE NFL....He fought the dogs to death, then if they did not die he killed them in the sickest ways possible. There is nothing you could show him that would make him regret what he did, he only regrets getting cought, HE ENJOYED WATCHING THE DOGS FIGHT AND KILLING THEM!!!! Nothing can change that. Great job getting Vick back onto a football card in a 12 year old collection....THINK BEFORE YOU SPEEK!!!

Posted by: Haon | October 5, 2007 03:22 PM

peta is a joke. dont belive these animal cruedly lies. all they want is your money. all in all, this most likely not get posted. if peta was so great and everyone supported them, why not let this be seen by people to show both sides of the story?

Posted by: Anonymous | October 5, 2007 03:49 PM

To: Whatever,

W h a t e v e r!

Posted by: V. Soto | October 5, 2007 03:58 PM

I am a veggie who find it disspicable to do harm to any of the animal family, except out of bear necessity for one's survival.

Michael Vick's involvement in the dog-fighting was as obnoxious as sending people into the Daniel-in-the Lions den scenario. But above all, I would like to see more overt out-rage exhibited against the George Bush middle-east policy in which million of people, humans,Iraqis and Americans are being sent into the arena in Iraq to be slaughtered for corporate gain unconsciously by the President and cohorts in the power structure. Why no outcry. Vick is nothing compared to what's going on over there.

Posted by: Ernest J | October 5, 2007 04:26 PM

there is nothing in that script that states anything about redemption. He should not say it in its entirety. He should talk about what he's lost but he should not say he is a loser or ruined. He is going to jail and has lost all that he earned because he broke the law, was prideful, and was cruel. And the scripture below should run as well. -Allen

A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel. Proverbs 12:10

Posted by: Allen Jones | October 5, 2007 04:35 PM

hhhhhmmmmmmmmmm.. you really think vick cares about animals or peta for that matter. he is a multi-million dollar pro athlete. he cares more about failing his previous drug tests and getting caught in the airport with pot. give me a break people. i agree with Joshua 100% on this. he met with peta to make the public respect him more so the NFL will let him back in after he gets outta jail.

Posted by: simple bill | October 5, 2007 04:57 PM

Mr. RJ Walker

Two Thumbs UP for your comment!

GOD DOES FORGIVE, and nobody can judge EXCEPT God.

Posted by: Jen | October 5, 2007 05:32 PM

Thanks Jen!

Posted by: V. Soto | October 5, 2007 06:25 PM

"I think it should also refer to the regret and guilt he feels towards the dogs that he had harmed & the cruelty of his actions."

I agree. And even though I do not like Vick, nor what he did to the animals, I feel as if you shouldn't make him say all of those negative things about himself. True, what he did was EXTREMELY negative and unforgivable, but you can at least lighten the tone of it a bit, and still send out an equally powerful message. The quote I stated above of someone's suggestion is PERFECT. Not too negative, yet, still sends out a message.

Posted by: Anonymous | October 5, 2007 07:14 PM

I just needed to clarify that my thanks was going out to "Jen" that posted all of those awesome quotes. I'm definitely saving these for future use. :)

But the "Jen" that agrees with RJ Walker's comments (be it the same Jen or not), I can't agree with.

We, as human beings, have the right and the obligation (read: the obligation) to stand up against barbaric actions perpetrated against animals.

I do not understand the individuals that think it is unjust that Michael Vick is being "judged". Well, if we don't speak up for these animals, then who will? Certainly not the Michael Vicks of this world!

Besides, it was up to Michael Vick, and ONLY MICHAEL VICK, to be concerned with what legacy he was leaving behind when he decided to torture dogs, by say, hanging them by their necks to try to kill them! Some of these poor dogs still lived after having this done to them! The dogs that survived this were given an extra special treat: their rope was severed and their heads were forced into 5-gallon buckets of water so that they drowned! Not such a pleasant way to go, wouldn't you say?

Posted by: V. Soto | October 5, 2007 08:31 PM

THIS IS SO SAD,,some people say what if the people doing that is a vet trying to help them?But it still don't matter. people need to wake up and smell the coffee.just because they don't get tortured don't mean animals need to be.Girls aroud the world, use the new makeup made by the company(BWC).standing for BEAUTY WITHOUT CRUELTY!!!! read more about it at www.beautifulreview.com

Posted by: Shea | October 5, 2007 08:57 PM

I think based on the reaction we have seen here so far that that script would not be a good idea, since it seems that many people are slandering it, and PETA because of it.
That aside my opinion would be play the script ONLY if he is not rewarded for it in any way, no lessening of his sentence, etc..

Posted by: Chris | October 5, 2007 09:04 PM

You all are crazy- they are animals- People have been treated worse by other humans and I don't see whites calling them selfs idots for the mistreatment of blacks. Get a life. Really!

Posted by: Mita | October 5, 2007 09:12 PM

The fact that you are even considering Michael Vick to appear in pro-animal advertisements and collateral is ridiculous. If the leadership and upper levels of PETA cannot see that this is strictly a PR move and a chance for Mr. Vick to lessen his jail sentence then the organization should reevaluate their position on everything.

While Mr. Vick may have attended and passed a "class", it is absurd to think that his mindset towards animals has changed. Using Mr. Vick in your ads is just another example of a company, organization, etc. taking advantage of an athlete. I have not even begun to delve into the fact that Mr. Vick appearing in ads completely contradicts everything this organization stands for. Am I to believe that the CEO of a fur seller would be allowed to speak on PETA's behalf one month after quitting that organization? The answer to that is most likely no but instead you choose to use a "celebrity".

Plain and simple, allowing Mr. Vick, convicted felon of animal abuse and cruelty, cheapens PETA's stance and weakens animal lovers everywhere.

Posted by: Todd Duquette | October 5, 2007 10:11 PM

I agree with some of the comments - this should be AFTER he has served his time. He has has a LONG way to go before he gets his ticket out of HE*&!!! I hope he is sorry but not for what he lost but for what he has done and truly now has empathy for dogs!

Posted by: Apollonmimi | October 5, 2007 11:24 PM

I totally agree with Teresa Saeed's comment of Oct.4th, she couldn't have said it better.

Posted by: David Perkins | October 6, 2007 06:49 AM

We'd need a visual of VIck, makes it much more powerful for the audience. This is serious stuff. No one can ever forget the cruelty in which he treated his dogs.
He should be in a commercial, on TV for the world to see. We can then decide if he's sincere. Oh, the commercial should be paid with VICK money, not PETA's.

Posted by: Gino | October 6, 2007 08:02 AM

I do not think he should tell people not to fight to dogs because they will lose everything...if he has indeed become a compassionate person he should let people know how much animals can enrich thier lives--he should tell people that fighting dogs is cruel and that real men would never do such a thing--if he is doing this just so he can get his career back his name should dropped from Peta except to let people know what a jerk he is. He should not be used by Peta. It is my belief that Vick would be fighting dogs tomorrow if he thought he could get away with it. You and I know that people like Vick do not change overnight. He is a mean person and if I never heard his name again except to hear that he was in jail for a very long time and would never play football again, I would be happy.

Posted by: Anonymous | October 6, 2007 09:50 AM

That is the most ridiculous thing I have heard yet. Michael Vick should no way speak in an ad about peta and animals. He is a sicko and will do anything to be in the limelight. If they even use him in an ad, I will no longer support their agency and they will never receive any money from me. If they would do this it would be just a big joke.And who ever thought of this idea should be fired.

Posted by: Diana Kinn | October 6, 2007 01:33 PM

WHAT IS WORTH MORE A HUMAN LIFE OR A DOG.DO NOT GET ME WRONG,I LOVE ANIMALS,BUT THERE ARE HUMANS THAT DO NOT HAVE FOOD OR ABLE TO LIVE IN A DECENT WAY IN SOME PARTS OF THE WORLD SO HELP THEM FIRST,AND LEAVE THIS VICK ALONE,AND FOCUS ON THE REAL PROBLEMS,NOT SOME ANIMALS

Posted by: RICO TAYLOR | October 6, 2007 02:33 PM

Vick should not be doing any commercial about anything. he needs to be doing time. Talk is cheap. Is there anything left in life that cant be commercialized. peta stick with having people take their clothes off and exploit themselves but dont try pushing Vick advertizements on public.
If Vick had any class he would do to himself what he did to those dogs.

Posted by: linda | October 6, 2007 03:40 PM

I think it would be a good idea...to an extent. It should be something coming from his heart and not allready written out for him to say. If he is truly sorry and knows he screwed up royaly, then it should come out of his own mouth and not put into his mouth. I am pretty sure he won't convert to vegetarianism afterwards, but c'mon...if he really wants to publicly speak out about the wrong he did to those poor animals, then it should come from him. The most sincere testimonies are the ones that come from the heart.

Posted by: MeL | October 6, 2007 05:03 PM

Let's put in this way,

Have all of you ever made a mistake, no matter how small it is?

If you had ever made mistakes, would you mind to take the conquenses of your mistakes?

If you had courage to face the conquenses, will you wish your family, friends, and community can forgive you and give you a second change to show the "brend new" you?

If people forgive you, will you become more encouraged to "keep your head up and make a come back" coz "GOD forgives"? (Quote RJ Walker a little bit)

If all of the above are yes, please give yourself and Vick a break and see what will be happened.

If one of the answer is no, please ignore what I said, go ahead and continue to say whether you want to.

I, Jen, personally really do appreciated what PETA did for Mr. Vick now. Your second chance means a lot to me, and hopefully Mr. Vick as well.

Thank you very much.

Posted by: Jen | October 6, 2007 05:21 PM

animal research doesnt benefit humans. any more than lawn-mower studies benefit car engines, (siav.org mrmcmed.org & pcrm.org) vegan by design, we did NOT evolve as carnivores,

Posted by: gary fair | October 6, 2007 08:43 PM

As long as Mr. Vick has Jesus, he has not lost everything. I know that it is your goal for him to lose everything, but he will not. He could do a lot of good for PETA, but not by look at me, I lost everything. Your intense hatred for this man is coming through. I hope that he does not do the add. You are attempting to demean someone's son, someone's father, someone's brother, a fine, young African American man who made a mistake. He took your class. But, the add is out. It seems that you have a direct line to the judge to tell him what to do. God has the say so, not you. You have killed more dogs than Vick. At least 48 of the 49 dogs can be adopted. How can you say you are for ethical treatment of animals when you are not being ethical to a human being? I do not know if you will put this on your site because I am not going along with your mistreatment of a human being. Be blessed and be more humane.

Posted by: Concerned | October 6, 2007 11:51 PM

I think that if he does the PSA it will be a publicity stunt. He should not be paid for it, and it should not shorten his prison stay (assuming they really do put him in jail).

He needs to be punished for his crimes and then the world needs to forget about Michael Vick, as does the NFL and all of his fans (ex-fans). No more lime light for this loser.

Forcing him or even allowing him to do a PSA is a sick attempt to mitigate the damages that he's done and the lives he's destroyed.

Posted by: Kim | October 7, 2007 02:06 AM

michael vick is not sorry for he has done in the past six and half yrs towards those poor innocent, voicelss , defenseless dogs.
he is only sorry he is caught.
for him to work with peta in ANY FORM, is only his p r firm's strategy to make people to BELIEVE he has changed, it is only a show .
he is also trying to make himself look better for the judge who is going to sentence him in dec.
he is a liar, just look at how many times he has denied his action to falcons and nfl, denied his action to the public before his cohorts turn agasint him,".... my family member didn't do the right thing on my property, i was never there, i am going to clear my good name ...".
and " ..i found god..." right after he pleaded guilty.
wow, how quick he found god.
i want to volmet every time i think about those numerous lies.
peta should not have any kind of working relationship with him UNTIL HE SERVED HIS JAIL TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
i think pets is rushing it this time.
I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH PETA.
michael vick should be neutered asap.

Posted by: ann | October 7, 2007 04:19 AM

He is only doing this to get a less time. Up until two weeks before he pled guilty he was "looking forward to proving my innnocence". The ONLY reason he pled guilty and is doing this is for himself, to look good for the judge and get less time. He is very sorry, not for what he did but sorry he got caught. PETA doesn't need to get involved with this guy. He's poison. No credibility or believability and he is about as sincere about this as OJ was about finding his wife's true killer. If PETA does this they will be the ones looking like idiots for beliving this guy's lies, directed by one of the PR firms Vick hired to improve his image when all the crap hit the fan. It's amazing how everyone facing hard prison time gets converted and sees the error of their ways. When he serves his time and gets out his actions will speak for themselves but my guess is with no prison time hanging over his head and the reality of his career being gone hits him his new found empathy for animals will go the way of the doo doo bird.

Posted by: dianne | October 7, 2007 04:32 AM

Absolutely not! Like another said here, he is a sociopath, and they cannot feel for any living being except themselves and play upon others' compassion for them. It would be yet another ploy for public forgiveness and a lesser sentence. He should get more for trying to fool everyone. He had to have NOTES to apologize to the public! And, somehow totally forgot to leave the apology for killing dogs out of it! (If you actually saw the note, it was the last "talking point" on it). He deserves to rot in jail, even if his skin was purple. The race card doesn't apply here.

Posted by: Shannon M. | October 7, 2007 09:30 AM

Why not transmute what Vick did into something positive? Seeing Vick stand against dog-fighting would reach a lot people not otherwise interested in PETA. And it might even get some people to change their ways.

Posted by: Nate | October 7, 2007 11:22 AM

Mita

I think you need to get a life, seriously. Humans have not been raised in factory farms and then sent to slaughterhouses to be cut up into pieces while still very much aware. We don't wear the skins of humans and call it fashion. Animals continue to be hunted with bows and are beaten to perform in circuses and in cruel animal shows. Vivisection is exclusively for the other animals not humans. Humans are not cut up while still alive in a lab all in the name of "science". Then there are the sickos that rape all types of animals. And the abuse and murder of animals goes on.

Posted by: Ana | October 7, 2007 02:23 PM

Please, NOBODY WHO IS NORMAL COULD DO THE THINGS HES DONE. ALL THE PSA WILL DO IS HAVE PEOPLE FEELING SORRY FOR HIM. MAYBE AND I MEAN MAYBE IT WOULD BE OKAY AFTER HE DONT his PRISON time.

This man doesnt care, and will never care, hes doing what he can to get his butt outta trouble.

Posted by: Christel Austin | October 7, 2007 02:29 PM

You guys need to get a life. Michael Vick said he was sorry, he lost a ton of money, all of his respect, and is going to prison. What more do you want from this man? You guys are just milking this story to get attention to your ridiculous organization that believes it is wrong to drink milk because it hurts cows? WHAT? Adam and Eve put on animal skins in the garden of Eden, mabye they should do your PSA.

Posted by: Bryant | October 7, 2007 02:37 PM

I think the one thing that bothers me the most about this outrage that some of us feel is the fact of all those wonderful people, Grandmas, Grandpas, moms,dads, children holding signs for PETA and marching on such hot days in the sun
protected by nothing and then going to the Justice building and doing the same marching and also in New York marching.
What a terrible slap in the face for these fine,fine people.

Posted by: Judith, Freedom Fighter | October 7, 2007 03:15 PM

Its interesting how there is a mention of loss of career, respect, friends etc. yet there is no mention of feeling horrible for putting innocent animals through hell.
This only tells me that he is sorry for losing everyting and not sorry for those dogs who need our remorse most of all.

Posted by: alisa | October 7, 2007 05:41 PM

It seems that you are mainly approving negative comments of people who feel as you do. Those who want him to do such a demeaning add need to take a course on how to treat human beings and how to get away from hatred.

Posted by: Concerned | October 7, 2007 08:21 PM

It may be true that Michael Vick was not regularly exposed to empathy for animals while growing up in the projects; however, it's difficult to believe he remained ignorant while in college, then later as a professional quarterback making millions of dollars. The man was NOT isolated in a bubble. Here's a thought: perhaps he is simply trying to minimize his jail sentence and maximize his chance to play pro-football again in the future.

Taking PETA's course and exam certainly LOOKS good. Has he offered any financial support to campaigns to end dogfighting and other animal tortures? Would that not be a better indicator of his sincerity.

To be honest, I'm having trouble justifying PETA sending out emails to members that frankly work to help advertise Vick's alleged "change of heart." For me, it's going to take a bit more than Vick's attendance at a seminar to even begin to make amends for the years of torture he inflicted on so many innocent, trusting dogs. Sorry, PETA -- you know what they say about the company one keeps.

Posted by: graywulf | October 8, 2007 12:10 AM

Thanks, PETA, for throwing cold water on criticism of Vick. Since your money-grabbing, publicity-seeking alliance with Vick, you will notice that the well of criticism from columnists has dried up, thus paving the way for Vick to get a light sentence. You have also dried up your your own well of credibility. For what you have done to the poor dogs forced into the pit, you should be ashamed. I will never support PETA again.

Posted by: Barbara | October 8, 2007 09:29 AM

Anyone who will harm animals, old people, or children do not deserve the respect that some of you are so willing to give Vick, because he shares the same color of skin.

Dogs are the most unconditional loving creatures, and for some of you to act as if they are just disposable garbage makes me SICK! Dogs are extremely loyal and eager to please, unfortunately they have the mind of a 3 year old, and are not capable of comprehending what abuse is so they can not just pack their bags and leave the abuser. People that will harm defenseless animals, or train them to be "fighting machines" will also abuse their children, wives, and old people. It is a cycle with these warped individuals that starts with animals and continues on to humans. The people on here so concerned about human rights, but not animal rights are very confused on their stand...if you care about humans, and children being beaten you should care about animals being abused because that just so happens to be the starting point of a very tragic cycle.

What Michael Vick has done upsets me very badly not just because of his total lack of compassion for the life of an animal, but concern that his lack of compassion for animals could very easily turn on his children.

Do I think that Vick should come out, and express to young children that what he has done is wrong...YES, but I think he should only do it after he has also served time behind bars and truly paid through the justice system. If he starts speaking out now, and he receives a light sentence it will in turn send the message. It will not come across as heartfelt only mean to anyone that sees him on TV or in ads as him trying to escape trouble has he has done many many times. Don’t make this The "MICHAEL VICK'S ATTEMPT TO AVOID JAIL TIME" mission. It is very important that nothing be done or offered to VICK until he is sentenced both in Federal and State Court

Posted by: Dana | October 8, 2007 10:25 AM

Rico,
You said: "I LOVE ANIMALS, BUT THERE ARE HUMANS THAT DO NOT HAVE FOOD OR ABLE TO LIVE IN A DECENT WAY IN SOME PARTS OF THE WORLD SO HELP THEM FIRST,AND LEAVE THIS VICK ALONE,AND FOCUS ON THE REAL PROBLEMS,NOT SOME ANIMALS"

Why can't these problems be worked on simultaneously? There will *always* be strife and hardship for humans and animals alike. Does this mean we should never try to crack down on needless suffering of animals, such as that which occurs in dogfighting? By this logic, we might stop doing all medical research on non-life threatening conditions and focus solely on AIDS. Or maybe cancer. Which is more important? If this argument doesn't convince you, consider the fact that animal cruelty is often a precursor to inflicting harm on other human beings. For this reason, it is directly beneficial to humans that we crack down on needless animal cruelty.

Posted by: Melissa | October 8, 2007 01:02 PM

The Michael Vick supporter are more disgusting than he is.

Posted by: sherri | October 8, 2007 01:09 PM

I am appalled at PETA for having anything to do with Vick. I am sure there are other people that can help with advertising. You are one of the causes of dog abuse if you aid Vick to get a lesser sentence. Pigs will fly before he changes his attitudge towards dogs and legal things. He thinks he is above the law.
As far as I am concerned I will not do another thing for PETA. They are finally showing their true colors. Anything for a buck or to get on tv. You all are as bad as Vick.
Being you all at PETA are so stupid let me clue you in, If you continue to tout Vick and how he is taking your classes, allow him to do a PSA you are going to lose more support from the public then you will ever get from Vick and his coherts. You have lost me and many of my friends now. Keep on and you will lose more. You even said he will play football again. How do you know this unless you have spoken with Goodell and told them how wonderful it was that Vick is now going to change since taking your course???????
Vick is a liar, a good actor and a crook along with what he has done to those poor dogs. YOU say that you are for pervention of animal abuse? Then stand up and speak for the poor dogs that Vick killed and stop helping Vick.
How much money has he donated to PETA to get you jerks to do this?

and when I tried to post this is what I got in return. They are monitoring anything negative and won't allow it. Can you believe that?

D

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Posted by: Meggie | October 8, 2007 02:23 PM

Rico,

If world hunger is a concern of yours try going vegetarian! Did you know that 4.8 pounds of grain is fed to cattle to produce one pound of beef for human consumption?

As Diet For a Small Planet author Frances Moore Lappé writes, imagine sitting down to an eight-ounce steak. “Then imagine the room filled with 45 to 50 people with empty bowls in front of them. For the ‘feed cost’ of your steak, each of their bowls could be filled with a full cup of cooked cereal grains.”

If you are concerned about world hunger you can make a difference and be compassionate to animals all at the same time!!!!

Posted by: Dana | October 8, 2007 02:30 PM

I am not so sure that the issue is the penalty for what he has done, but the attitude and behavior that caused it. He lost money and position, the dogs lost their lives. Perhaps a better PSA would be an explanation from him of why what he did was wrong. Fear of penalty never produces long term changes in anyone- it may cause one to be more careful, but it is only the realization that one has caused harm and pain to another, and because we are all linked together- harm and pain to oneself, that true changes are made.

Posted by: Tony | October 8, 2007 02:31 PM

LET VICK PLAY THIS SEASON! an animal is an animal!!! i think MCdonalds should be sued for killing so many COWS a year!!! more criminal than VICK is! They send them through a blender and make ground beef! whats the difference? OH WAIT we eat cows!!! but you know what MUSLIMS dont eat cowS!!!

Posted by: Kasey | October 8, 2007 03:07 PM

Kasey,

Please tell me what the point of your post is suppose to be?

As for the obvious difference between Michael Vick and McDonald’s would be that unfortunately Farm animals are not protected under abuse laws that would make what they do in slaughterhouses illegal...Dog abuse is a felony!!! Hopefully one day Farm animals will as well be protected in the same way as domesticated animals are...and anyone subjecting them to abuse will face federal charges..as of now that is not an option.

To me what Vick has done is no less important than abuse in slaughterhouses...so to say "LETS PLAY FOOTBALL" and include Vick in the line up just is not acceptable!! People stop looking for any and every other thing wrong in the world to compare what Vick has done to make him look better.......HE IS SCUM!

Posted by: Dana | October 8, 2007 04:14 PM

Kasey,

Please tell me what the point of your post is suppose to be?

As for the obvious difference between Michael Vick and McDonald’s would be that unfortunately Farm animals are not protected under abuse laws that would make what they do in slaughterhouses illegal...Dog abuse is a felony!!! Hopefully one day Farm animals will as well be protected in the same way as domesticated animals are...and anyone subjecting them to abuse will face federal charges..as of now that is not an option.

To me what Vick has done is no less important than abuse in slaughterhouses...so to say "LETS PLAY FOOTBALL" and include Vick in the line up just is not acceptable!! People stop looking for any and every other thing wrong in the world to compare what Vick has done to make him look better.......HE IS SCUM!

Posted by: Dana | October 8, 2007 04:35 PM

I think it's a good idea, but he needs to talk more about his remorse and how NOT to hurt animals, any animal and that all animals are sentient beings and feel pain along with how he screwed up his career etc.

Posted by: Lisa | October 8, 2007 05:58 PM

he deserves NO further exposure whatsoever.
is is lower than the lowest of scum.
ANYONE who uses his image for ANY reason is making themselves look like a bunch of morons.
sorry.

Posted by: clyde | October 8, 2007 07:51 PM

Has anyone stopped to think that there may have been a rather "large" contribution made by the NFL and or Vick that has "influenced" events? Covert payments are made even by countries all the time in return for "favors" we (the public) are never privileged to.

As far as the idiot Navy Seal...all I can say is, I'm so tired of blacks taking every wrong done by another black and calling it "racist" when they are held accountable. This is an uneducated means of avoiding blame. Racism is, unfortunately alive and well in America, on BOTH sides of the color fence...propagated by the likes of this misled person and Ms. W. Goldberg. I am half white and half black...so I see both sides. I've been discriminated against by both blacks and whites. But this makes it SO INCREDIBLY apparent that race should NOT be brought into this....it is about moral and ethical behavior...not race. This sub-human named Michael Vick has shown a lack of both to a shocking degree (all though there are certainly many more out there doing the same or worse).

He SHOULD not in any way be asked or allowed to represent the views of PETA or animal rights activists...he is not qualified and it is very discrediting and disturbing...however, money talks and I'll bet there is plenty behind this move.

On a final note... If it is in the heart of a man to be cruel to animals, it is also unfortunately in that same heart to be so to his fellow man.

Posted by: Charles | October 8, 2007 09:58 PM

My opinion is that Michael Vick should not be doing any PSA for PETA regarding dog fighting. One class on empathy does not change a person who has been involved in this type of life-style for over 6 years. He only took that class to try to save his ***. Any fool can see that. I don't understand your organization at all anymore. I thought you did good things. Doing anything to help Michael Vick is absurd. Don't look for any support or donations from me if you let him do any PSA for you!

Posted by: Emilie | October 8, 2007 09:59 PM

Ummm, Just how stupid does Peta and Vick think the public are?
Do they think that a 2 day 'Dogs have feelings too." course will make Vicks apology/turnaround on animal right even remotely beliveable?
However if the PSA was done from prison, 3 years into animal cruelty sentance, with Vick cofessing to be regularly beaten and raped then I might belive He was sorry.
Until then, everthing else is publicity to save Vicks rep', and Peta's slap on the wrist association with criminals!

Posted by: Symon Ward | October 8, 2007 10:25 PM

PETA followers, You need to take a course on diffusing your anger. Your hatred for Vick and anyone who supports him is far worse than what happened to the dogs. If your organization is all that you say, instead of recommending a sentence to the judge, you would recommend that the charges of this first time offender be dropped now that he took your course. At least, he loved his dogs. He did not kill the dogs. You have killed dogs. No one is calling you dogkiller. Leave the man along and take the first anger course that is open. It is not mentally healthy to harbor such hatred. Let it go.

Posted by: Concerned | October 8, 2007 11:08 PM

I am all for Vick doing a commercial and saying exactly what has been outlined above. In fact, I would love to see a judge ORDER him to do so.

Posted by: Cliff | October 9, 2007 12:13 AM

please, peta,
do not work with michael vick.
a thug like him, will make peta look rediculous.
this is like asking the school yard bully to teach the rest of the kids to behave during recess.
it is going to make peta look really bad.
trust me, i hv talked to a few people who is familiar with vick's crime, and peta 's work, everyone think this is a bad idea for vick the thug to do the psa thing.
beware of the thug, peta should WAIT AND SEE after his jail time.

Posted by: sabrina | October 9, 2007 02:37 AM

kasey, Hindu's don't eat cows, muslims eat halal beef.

Posted by: rojo | October 9, 2007 08:57 AM

Dana, there is so much grain out there that companies are turning it into bio-fuel. It's very naive to suggest people are starving because someone has a steak for dinner.
45 people with a cup of grain is approx 18 pounds of grain which would produce several pounds of beef, not a mere 8oz. Was the rest of Lappe's book equally informative

Posted by: rojo | October 9, 2007 10:17 AM

unfortunately our world is ran by the media and once someone is put into that limelight people take interest,no matter how uncompassionate or sick they are, I say do not give him that glory,even if it is a message of humility it will not change his cruel heart

Posted by: c | October 9, 2007 06:22 PM

I think the amends that he made was ok but this would make it seem seriously sincere...we can all say i'm sorry for what i did when we are under the gun...its what we continue to do when we are out of hot water that matters...i think that Vick making a statement like this would be awesome.

Posted by: Betsy Matusiak | October 9, 2007 06:40 PM

sure get him to talk, but only as you wrote it. nothing he can do will change what he and his friends did to those dogs. he's only sorry because he got caught. come to think of it i wouldn't make or let him say anything. show his face! "THIS is the dog killer that is going to jail. even pro ball players can be losers. from making sneekers with his name on them to making liscence plates"... you know what i mean. anything he says will be a lie. don't let him try and make face in the public eye. humiliate him by pointing the finger. that will surly work towards telling the horribly troubled people thinking of doing or already doing this awful thing of fighting animals. please help save the poor captive elephants!

Posted by: steve c | October 9, 2007 07:49 PM

This is really crazy. First of all, M.V. is an immaturely brazen liar. Even knowing witnesses might turn on him, he continued to lie with a straight face proclaiming his innocence. Who is going to believe anything he says, ever again?

Secondly, this so-called PETA PSA sounds exactly like his self-centered public statement after he finally pleaded guilty. All the remorse is for himself and what he's lost. Just like that statement, there is nothing in this PSA addressing the importance of showing mercy and kindness to animals.

You do a lot of good stuff PETA...but with this, I think you're totally off the wall. The only clear message in this PSA is to gain sympathy & support for M.V. and I'd really rather see him pay with jailtime & fines for the suffering he caused those animals.

Posted by: Joann | October 9, 2007 10:31 PM

Don't give him any more publicity. Run a PSA about dog-fighting with someone who hasn't killed all those animals for a hot penny and morbid amusement.

No one would give an ad featuring Charles Manson the time of day, even if it did say, "Hey, I suck. I guess I shouldn't have organized a cult to murder people, huh?"

Come on!

And as for all you fools saying, we're behind you MV just because you're black, well-- you're on the wrong site, aren't you? No one gives a d*mn about his skin color. We care about his blatant abuse of animals. If he were white, we'd be just as furious.

Posted by: Rue | October 9, 2007 10:50 PM

Sabrina
PETA has already become ridiculous!

Posted by: halo snipe | October 9, 2007 11:15 PM

I am all for Vick doing a commercial with all that said ..but he needs to add some personal apologies for the way he treated those poor dogs and he needs to be made to realize those animals have feelings just like people do.. fear, loneliness and pain which he caused them all to feel...

Posted by: Jan Rider | October 9, 2007 11:52 PM

Ok Rojo,

Lets compare apples to apples here:

The USDA projects that 60 million tons of grain from corn will be needed from the 2008 harvest. The EPI goes a step further and estimates that the distilleries will need 139 million tons. The competition between cars and grain will likely drive world grain prices to levels never seen before...ok don’t forget to add in that there is a big competition between livestock and people all over the world already.

Now lets compare that to 157 million tons of cereal, legumes, and vegetable proteins that are all suitable for human consumption is feed to livestock to produce 28 million tons of animal protein in the form of meat. Now take this even a step further and note that cattle are not even designed to eat grain, but it puts that little marble design in meat so therefore it brings more money!! Everyday the rain forest is being destroyed to make room for more cattle in turn this is taking away the food sources for the people that live their by destroying the land not to speak of the habitats of many animals that will be forced into extension, and even insects that we are not even sure of what their function in nature is at all. If animal farming were to stop and we were to use the land to grow grain to feed ourselves, we could feed every single person on this planet. Consuming crops directly - rather than feeding them to animals and then eating animals - is a far more efficient way to feed the world. Now it is not just the grain feeding that is the problem Cattle take up much land that is needed for people to grow their own crops to provide food. This situation is only going to get worse as new countries are developing meat eating lifestyles.

Ok now lets look at the fact that Ethanol does burn cleaner than gasoline, ethanol an 85/15 percent blend of ethanol to gasoline does create fewer toxic emissions. Ethanol does not contain significant amounts of toxic materials such as lead and benzene. By lowering the amount of greenhouse gases and ozone created by car exhaust, the use of ethanol is believed to be much better alternative to gasoline. I am not discrediting the fact that there are disadvantages to this process as well.

There is no endless supply of grain that you seem to think exist in either case using grain for fuel, or feeding cattle grain it will all have to be grown, and prices will alter depending on weather. The main difference between the two is using grain for fuel will help the environment by keeping cattle in feedlots and taking up much of the earth for livestock you are harming the environment in many different ways by polluting water sources, emitting toxic gases, destroying top soil, and taking up much of the land that is needed to grow vegetables, and grains for human feed. When it all comes down to it grain fuel will take up less grain than feeding livestock. The animals are eating food that could be provided to many starving people.

Rojo you like millions of Americans are in that little denial box thinking that there is an endless supply of everything in this world. The truth is if things keep going the way they are there will come a time when many Americans will be forced into vegetarianism that day will come sooner than later when like in underdeveloped countries meat is a luxury item, and only the rich can partake. You just have to figure out what is more important to you living in a world that uses grain for fuel that in turn brings cleaner air, and less greenhouse gases..or continue to consume meat and back an industry built on greed that is slowly destroying the environment while taking food from the mouths of small children.

Posted by: Dana | October 10, 2007 09:00 AM

I hope that Peta will wait until he is sentenced before he does any work for them. He hasn't really said he was responsible yet, he said that he apologized to the people hurt by the situation... That is not that he is sorry for hurting the animals. He is going to use this in his defense and get a lighter sentence and be brought right back into the NFL.
What was the point of signing the petitions if Ingrid is so easy to forgive?

Posted by: Leslie | October 10, 2007 09:15 AM

I think it is an excellent idea to have Micheal Vick do a PSA...But I think the tone of your script is half wrong!

He should say that dogfighting ruined his carreer etc, but then He should apologize to the Dogs and say that he understands now how badly he treated them, and that he failed them

His message must revolve around the fact that he understands that he caused horrible pain and suffering and that he knows this is wrong and inhumane.

This is more powerful then just making it all about the money he;s lost.

Tiger

Posted by: Tiger | October 10, 2007 12:06 PM

Mr. Vick is not sorry at all. If he had not been caught, would he have quit? No way!
I think it OK that he would do a PSA, but he's not doing it because he's sorry about the dogs he harmed and killed. He's only sorry about the money that he lost!

Posted by: Courtney | October 10, 2007 02:48 PM

I have always agreed with most of the things P.E.T.A stands for, but to have Michael Vick do commericals for P.E.T.A totally discuss me. If this happens I will have nothing to do with this organization again.The reasoning behind this is simple, to get less jail time.

Posted by: Jim Jackson | October 10, 2007 03:28 PM

I think PETA would be doing Michael Vick a service to have him in one of their PSA's. The public is aware what he has done and how it has effected him (including those who do what he did). Why would having him on a PSA have any effect on those that already host dog fights? How would it positively effect anyone for that matter? In my opinion it would assist him more that he would assist you... You are simply giving Micael Vick a way to feel closure to this horrible situation, and PETA should never do that. In my opinion this proposed PSA would help his career more than the animals he has abused or future animals that are going to be abused... I think having the Atlanta Falcons owner on there showing the 3rd party effects that dog fights has on others... you think Vick lost the most $ through this ordeal, I think not... or maybe have Momma Vick on there telling how she feels about her son's actions... This will show people how it effects others around you... Maybe have Vick match the amount of $ he bet on fights as a donation to PETA... That would be the best way for PETA to advance through this...

DO NOT HELP VICK APOLIGISE TO THE PUBLIC THROUGH A PETA PSA!!!

Posted by: Ray | October 10, 2007 05:12 PM

It would be very powerful to get Vick to do an ad. I do not agree with the majority of these posts stating that the script must be adhered to exactly as is....it sounds contrived. Perhaps being less extreme can reach more people. MikeVick's ruined career speaks for itself. Lets not get psychotic about revenge on Vick at this point...lets use his bad action for change for good.

Posted by: Jacy Laure | October 10, 2007 11:57 PM

I think there should be retribution for the horrible acts he committed, however, if I saw a PSA with him on it (even though I would prefer to never see his face again), I would look at it as fake and phony. In my heart, I don't believe that he actually feels bad for killing and torturing helpless animals for his own sick enjoyment, rather I think he feels bad for getting caught and ruining his reputation. Also, i would be curious if he was going to get paid for such a PSA. I would actually be OK with that, as long as he agreed to donate the money to an abused animal shelter, or something along those lines. I would just really think about the decision to have him on a PSA, and whether people would take anything that comes out of that man's mouth seriously. Peace.

Posted by: Peace | October 11, 2007 11:11 AM

This is directed solely Judith Freedom Fighter i would first like to say that i am a black animal activist. And that i am beyond offended by your false information of how slaves came to america. if you were to tell that to an african or a person who knows what REALLY happened they would asked that you be spayed promptly. the europeans tricked the africans into using thier servants, africans never had slaves they had indentured servants and the europeans went to the african kings of the gold coast of ghanna and ethiopia and zire and asked if they could use some of thier strong backed workers to help build a new nation, the kings agreed but in return they asked for goods and supplies and that thier brother be returned home, but the greedy americans kept coming back for more then the african kings said no because we need our brothers here, then thats when the white man came back with arms and took them all kings servants and all of that. and they didnt stop there, to prevent the nations from uniting and coming together they took the west africans and put them on the east coast and the tribes from upper africa to lower africa because none of them spoke the same language and therefore they could not unite. they destroyed africa's heritange and they are still doing this today because no matter what Vick does it is not going to be good enough, and as far as reperations yes they should becuase they did us the exact same way that they did the indians, stole and raped a nation of people for thier own personal gain and peta is making an example out of vick something white people love to do especially with prominant black men with money they hate it, not only do they want him to do time they want to see him damn near homeless, but when this tennesssee walking horse scandal when down it just fizzled away you need to get your facts straight before you start spewing false doctrine about a race of people you obviously know nothing about

Posted by: Dedrick Tucker | October 11, 2007 12:07 PM

This is directed solely Judith Freedom Fighter i would first like to say that i am a black animal activist. And that i am beyond offended by your false information of how slaves came to america. if you were to tell that to an african or a person who knows what REALLY happened they would asked that you be spayed promptly. the europeans tricked the africans into using thier servants, africans never had slaves they had indentured servants and the europeans went to the african kings of the gold coast of ghanna and ethiopia and zire and asked if they could use some of thier strong backed workers to help build a new nation, the kings agreed but in return they asked for goods and supplies and that thier brother be returned home, but the greedy americans kept coming back for more then the african kings said no because we need our brothers here, then thats when the white man came back with arms and took them all kings servants and all of that. and they didnt stop there, to prevent the nations from uniting and coming together they took the west africans and put them on the east coast and the tribes from upper africa to lower africa because none of them spoke the same language and therefore they could not unite. they destroyed africa's heritange and they are still doing this today because no matter what Vick does it is not going to be good enough, and as far as reperations yes they should becuase they did us the exact same way that they did the indians, stole and raped a nation of people for thier own personal gain and peta is making an example out of vick something white people love to do especially with prominant black men with money they hate it, not only do they want him to do time they want to see him damn near homeless, but when this tennesssee walking horse scandal when down it just fizzled away you need to get your facts straight before you start spewing false doctrine about a race of people you obviously know nothing about

Posted by: Dedrick Tucker | October 11, 2007 12:07 PM

10-8-07 at 11:08 pm
"Concerned" and Vick followers urgently need to take a course in REALITY.
Or get off their mind-bending drugs fast!
Seriously, anyone who still idolizes Vick - especially knowing that his own very dear "friends" plea bargained against him about his atrocities towards his dogs that "he loved"(?) - are proving himself and herself to be mentally unstable. For goodness sake, even Vick admitted to needing some kind of help. (whether he meant it or not, is another matter)

Posted by: Ariel | October 11, 2007 12:08 PM

dana, apart from the fact that I'm not american, and am a grain grower well aware of shortfalls in grain(prices have more than doubled for grain here), where are the apples you are comparing.

My statement was "people are not starving because grain is fed to cattle". Grain has been so cheap that now it is being recognised as an energy source, to the extent that at current prices it is eneconomic to feed to cattle. Fortunately most cattle weight gain is produced by grass consumption, something humans will find unpalatable. Grain feeding is usually for a period of 100 days following 500 days on grass to add, as you say, some marbling. And taste. Of course beef may not be the way of the future, pork and chicken have much better feed conversion ratios.

I guess we'll have to decide what is best for hungry people, ethanol or meat when the rationing of grain begins. The distilled grains from etanol can of course be used for animal feed, a win-win situation.

No comments on the "facts" you presented?

Posted by: rojo | October 11, 2007 08:47 PM

dedrick, don't take it too personally, judith is not known for her accuracy. Thankyou for an informative post.

Posted by: rojo | October 11, 2007 08:55 PM

I think that the crualty of Mr Vick's heart is not going to vanish with a simple statement but it would target easily influenced people, for sure. People who look up at sports, music or movies celebrities as role models. Yes, I think it could influence that kind of people.

I would like to add something for the people who write comments saying that animals are inferior or not intelligent. Is it a sign of higher intelligence from YOU to assume that you are superior in intellect to a being from a DIFFERENT SPECIE? It comes down to saying that if a frog scores low on a *middle-class western civilization designed* IQ test, it proves that frog is dumb? Do you really think that is INTELLIGENT reasoning? Stop comparing animals to humans. It does not work that way. Once again, they are differents species. They have their own ways. Who are we to judge them on a human scale? Could you say an orange has a bad apple taste compare to other apples? I made my point.
The only way to go is to respect the animals and let them be. No eating, no wearing, no breeding, no interfering at all. Open your eyes people and stop being dumb. Compassion IS a sign of superiority, if such a thing exists anyway.

Thanks for reading my post.

Posted by: Eve | October 11, 2007 09:02 PM

Not once has this Creature Vick said he was sorry and disgusted in himself for torturing those poor dogs.. Not once. He has not even admitted to it..just that he was present..He is a coward..After all is that not what this case is about, the torture of animals? This Ad is a joke.. Maybe if PETA scripted in "Iam a disgusting coward and Iam so sorry for torturing and killing those dogs" it might mean something.. Come on PETA all this Ad would do is make this coward look like he is reformed.. Give me a break

Posted by: Kerry | October 11, 2007 10:33 PM

is is true that Vick was arrested for Marijuana recently?

Posted by: Ilda Johnston | October 12, 2007 11:27 AM

If Michael Vick does this commercial, all proceeds should go to the HSUS and the dogs that suffer from this cruel sport.

Posted by: margaret moore | October 12, 2007 12:53 PM

That PSA is a joke! All of the importance is placed on his "career",his "friends",who by the way were probobly there with him!Blah Blah Blah,"I have nothing left" WHO CARES! Nothing was mentioned about the lives of the dogs he tortured and killed.If he cares at all it is only because he was caught!

Posted by: Monica | October 13, 2007 12:32 PM

All the proceeds should go to the HSUS and the dogs that suffer from this cruel sport?
Sure, the HSUS CEO would be thrilled to have his HUGE six-figure salary increased!

How about more like the proceeds should go to:
-the people who are actually taking care of the dogs, to cover the expenses,
-and for the care of other dogs who are victims of dogfighting,
-and for rewards for those who report other dogfighting activities
-and for campaigns against dogfighting.

I wouldn't even consider the HSUS to be the last place to be trusted to apply the proceeds to any of the above to the fullest!

Posted by: Ariel | October 15, 2007 09:35 AM

dana, apart from the fact that I'm not american, and am a grain grower well aware of shortfalls in grain(prices have more than doubled for grain here), where are the apples you are comparing.

My statement was "people are not starving because grain is fed to cattle". Grain has been so cheap that now it is being recognised as an energy source, to the extent that at current prices it is eneconomic to feed to cattle. Fortunately most cattle weight gain is produced by grass consumption, something humans will find unpalatable. Grain feeding is usually for a period of 100 days following 500 days on grass to add, as you say, some marbling. And taste. Of course beef may not be the way of the future, pork and chicken have much better feed conversion ratios.

I guess we'll have to decide what is best for hungry people, ethanol or meat when the rationing of grain begins. The distilled grains from ethanol can of course be used for animal feed, a win-win situation.

Posted by: rojo | October 15, 2007 09:43 AM

Show the booger dinc MV no mercy

Posted by: Pitty | October 20, 2007 03:18 PM

I think he should ask for mercy to not burn in karmic hell for what he did/took part in.

Posted by: c | November 9, 2007 08:01 PM

This is weird . There's a posting of a comment that I did not make. Here's my comment: I think this sadistic creature should beg for forgiveness for what he's done and to ask fo forgiveness to escape burning n his own karmic hell for what' he's done. I have no idea why some people on this blog are turning this into a race issue. It's about being a humane/human being and TRULY accepting responsibility for your actions ,no matter color you are. It doesn't make a difference to me. So,quit with the race thing .I also don't think he REALLY is sorry for what he did.

Posted by: c | November 13, 2007 02:18 AM

PETA, how many pitbulls kill and or maimed people last year alone? I personally think that breed of dog has no place in our society. Is it just to send a man to two years in prison for killing a dog but OK for drug pushers to get probation ofr selling drugs to our children. Old Judge Hudson probably will get some nice benefits out of Michael's sentence

Posted by: RICK | December 10, 2007 12:41 PM

there are more important things in the world these peta idiots can be doing besides rejoicing the fact that another man is in jail. another blackman in jail wow, whats new! I dont like the fact that dogs have been killed ,but this man lost it all for some dogs that did what they were bred to do! I think M Vick should be accountable for his actions but 23 months in jail for some dogs is crazy! people get less time for aggravated manslaughter in this country!

Posted by: hassan | December 10, 2007 12:45 PM

Why not encourage Michael Vick to utilize his negative situation with a positive......encourage the reduction of Horse Slaughter with his funding/creation of a Wild Horse Sanctuary in Texas?

Posted by: anonymous | December 10, 2007 01:52 PM

I think it's an amazing idea to use Michael Vick to do a PSA against dogfighting. But I urge you not to be too rigid and inflexible with the exact wording of the script. Of course, do not let him off easy, but his appearance in a PSA of this nature would be so powerful that I think it would be a mistake to let the idea fail because the exact wording included above is not used.

Posted by: Michael Strickland | December 14, 2007 02:37 PM

Peta,

Why is it ok to hunt and kill deers, ducks and rabbits? But it is not ok to kill dogs and cats? And how come you do not fight against deer hunting?

Posted by: Mary | December 14, 2007 03:42 PM

Hi Mary. It isn't, and we do.
-Jack

Posted by: Jack | December 14, 2007 05:03 PM

I would gag if this guy came on tv and said that. In my opinion, it would only be a self-serving lie. How about if we have OJ do a PSA about how his career suffered because he was even accused of murder?

Posted by: Deborah K Ahrendt | December 14, 2007 10:58 PM

HIS SORRY, MOTHERS KILLING THERE BABIES AND THE COURT SAYS THERE CRAZY AND PUTS THEM IN A HOSPITAL I THINK THAT IS WORSE IM 9 YEARS OLD I THINK THE JUDGE WAS WRONG MICHEAL VICK IS NOT A BAD PERSON JUST MADE SOME MISTAKES

Posted by: RANDY LEE REYNA | December 18, 2007 03:37 PM

I am not a big fan of MV but I do not agree with PSA that PETA would have him read if they were in agreement to do the PSA. I think the man is regretful considering his background, going from nothing to having it all, only to lose it again over something so stupid. What more do you people want from this man, he has nothing now and yet you continue to taunt him. The guy is doing his time and has 23 months to think about what he did. Leave the man the h*** alone. You can't bring back the those poor dead animals. You suceeded in getting a conviction move on!!! Find another animal cause other than MV.

Posted by: Nicole | January 16, 2008 12:00 PM