Michael Vick Upsetting Dog Breeders?
Michael Vick, the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, may be in over his head with his Belgian Malinois dog, according to some dog breeders.
Vick, 32, was involved in dog fighting that led to him serving 21 months in prison before his release in 2009. Although Vick admitted to owning a dog last October, The American Belgian Malinois Club and Rescue said that they were concerned with the breed he chose to include in his home, they told TMZ.
The organization said that the Belgian Malinois could become a dangerous dog for someone who has a history of fighting their animals. While the organization reportedly told the publication that they did not agree with Vick owning any dog, they also suggested the NFL player own a more submissive pet.
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Still, the ABMC said that they were willing to help Vick train his pet so that he could "learn and love the breed," they told the entertainment site.
However, it seems that Vick may be already getting tips for training his pet after the quarterback was spotted at a New Jersey PetSmart, where he signed up for six dog training courses, Philadelphia website Crossing Broad recently reported.
"Vick, his family and a bodyguard have been attending dog training classes for Angel, the Vick family's young Belgian Malinois," the website stated.
The American football player spoke about the importance of owning a dog despite the public scrutiny surrounding him and animals.
"As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God's creatures with kindness and respect," Vick said in a statement last year. "Our pet is well-cared for and loved as a member of our family. This is an opportunity to break the cycle. To that end, I will honor my commitment to animal welfare and be an instrument of positive change."
