Dogfighters get creative as spotlight on Vick case fades

By Ashley Fantz, CNN

When pro quarterback Michael Vick pleaded guilty to bankrolling a dogfighting operation in 2007, there was a spike in reports of dogfighting in the United States.

One of six dogs recovered from a Sumter County, South Carolina, dogfight waits in a kennel last week.

But when the headlines faded, the blood sport grew stronger and went even more underground, with thugs taking inventive precautions to keep police at bay, animal cruelty experts say.

"They know it's just not smart to have large crowds anymore, so we've seen fights where you've got the two handlers, a referee and Web cams everywhere broadcasting the fight on the Internet," said Mark Kumpf, an investigator based in Ohio who directs the National Animal Control Association.

Fights are also being staged on the move -- in 18-wheelers. "These guys are very sophisticated," Kumpf said. "If you're driving down the road, there could be dogs in that truck driving next to you that are dying.".." More

Gross: The Eagles Sign Michael Vick

In October of 2008, in an attempt to combat Pennsylvania's reputation as the "Puppy Mill Capitol of the East" and better the life of dogs bred in his state, Governor Ed Rendell signed into law House Bill 2525. Tonight, the Philadelphia Eagles announce they have signed Michael Vick to a one-year contract worth $1.6 million with an option for 5.6 million.

I know he has paid his debt to society, and he has not officially been reinstated to the NFL by Commissioner Roger Goodell (who will decide in week six when Vick can play), but I am still appalled. I wonder how Philadelphia fans will react? What puppy mill crusaders who are very active in the state will do? What should I do? I love football. Thoughts?

9:13 pm update: Well, this is something. At least negative backlash is on their radar..." More

Warning: graphic art on link