The football player was suspended from the NFL in August 2007, after being convicted for hosting illegal dog fighting matches which resulted in the deaths of several animals.
© PA Images / Ron Schwane / AP
After recent reports that he had adopted a dog for his family, the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback came under fire from animal rights groups who deemed his owning of a pet inappropriate.
The reports were prompted by a Twitter picture taken in his kitchen, which showed an opened box of Milk-Bone dog biscuits on the kitchen table.
In a statement obtained by TMZ, Vick acknowledged the reports, saying: "I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet. As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals."
Vick added: "I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God's creatures with kindness and respect. 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 continue to honour my commitment to animal welfare and be an instrument of positive change."
Shortly after serving time for his crimes, Vick admitted that he believed getting a pet dog would help him to move on with his life.
He has volunteered with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) as a spokesperson for its anti-dogfighting campaign since his release from prison in 2009.
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