Is a PETA Class Enough to Save Michael Vick?

The Associated Press has reported that Michael Vick completed a PETA class in empathy and animal protection on September 18.. The class, which PETA offered to him, took place in Suffolk, Virginia and lasted eight hours.

The PETA course was offered to Vick when he visited the PETA offices in Suffolk to apologize for abusing pit bulls found on his Surry County property. PETA officials state that Vick was the sole student in the class and very attentive; reportedly saying that he "wished he had gotten to take a course like this five years ago."

The real question is, will this attempt at making amends pay off for Michael Vick?

My answer is no, especially considering that he already faces five years in prison on the federal charges alone. The accusations against Vick are too controversial, and a subculture has been built by those who are appalled by his behavior. (Judging by the price of dog-chewed Vick football memorabilia on eBay.)

Vick was indicted on state charges of bankrolling a dogfighting operation and also faces federal charges of dogfighting, to which he pled guilty and is awaiting a December 10 sentencing. Vick also tested positive for marijuana, meaning that his punishment will be more severe, now potentially including a curfew and the fashionable-as-of-late monitoring bracelet.

The charges against Vick hit home with millions of American pet owners, and it will be hard to gain back respect from them for such violent crimes. Not to mention Roger Goodell, NFL commissioner, who has indefinitely banned Vick from the NFL. (Vick not only lost his starting spot as quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, but all of his endorsement income, including a shoe release from Nike that was canceled.)

The length of time that Vick participated in dogfighting is also working against him. If Vick had been sucked into the culture for only a short time and then repented, there may be a chance for him to gain back some public respect. But because Vick was involved in the awful act of dogfighting for years, and was witnessed abusing and assisting in the murder of dogs, his fate is sealed as a heartless individual who doesn't care for innocent animals.

When asked their opinion on Vick's fate now that he has finished their course complete with a "rigorous" test, PETA officials continue their original stance that Vick deserves prison time. PETA also thinks that the class should be a requirement for all NFL players.

If PETA's not easing up on Michael Vick after this class, then neither shall the rest of us.