Dogs rescued from michael vick

Red

We are deeply saddened to tell you that Red, one of the pit bulls rescued from Michael Vick and given a new life at The SPCA for Monterey County, lost his fight with cancer on Monday, April 5, 2010.  

Red was an eight year old pit bull who arrived at The SPCA with scars on his face and chest.  He charmed everyone and was soon adopted by SPCA Pet Behavior Specialist Amanda Mouisset.  Red was a constant presence at The SPCA, filling a vital role by helping Amanda with her behavior consultations.  Red, who once was a part of Vick's infamous dogfighting kennels, found his calling helping train dogs who were aggressive toward other pets.  True to his gentle nature, Red would sit relaxed in the training area, serving as a calming agent while Amanda and her client eased the other dog’s aggression by redirecting focus and energy.

In late March, Red was diagnosed with two cancerous tumors, one in the center of his brain and one in the neck inside his spinal cord. Veterinary specialists felt that aggressive treatment would only extend Red's life by a few short months, so Amanda and her family chose to keep him comfortable with medication to give him a few days or weeks of quality life.  Sadly, Red's condition worsened and he left us surrounded by his new human family.  

"Red truly shows that dogs are amazing and resilient," says Beth Brookhouser, SPCA Director of Community Outreach.  "Red was born into a life that no animal deserves.  But he overcame his past and showed us all what a dog like him can do with a little love and affection.  He was a true ambassador for his breed and we will all miss him."

"He owns a piece of my heart forever," says Susi Allen, one of the clients who Red helped train. "Thanks Red, for all you did for me and Bunny....we love you always."

Red shared a home with Amanda, her husband, two children, two dogs, and a cat.  He went from Vick's fighting kennels to playing with other dogs, cuddling on the couch, and letting kids play dress up with him as their willing model.

"Many people have said to me how lucky Red is that we adopted him but I have to disagree," says Amanda.  "We have been truly the lucky ones.  He has brought so much joy and love into our lives that I can't even begin to explain."

To help rescue other abused animals, please share Red's story with your friends or donate to The SPCA in memory of Red.  We hope that Red’s life, while too short, can make a difference in the lives of other animals who need us.

“Red had a huge heart – there’s no doubt about that,” says Amanda.

This video was made in memory of Red by Amanda's children the night that Red passed away.

Ginger

Ginger was the most timid of the three dogs rescued by The SPCA from Michael Vick.  It was obvious that she had never been around every day comforts for dogs like squeaky toys and beds. Stacy, Ginger's foster mom and now adopter, worked slowly and patiently with Ginger to bring her out of her shell and today, Ginger is a very sweet dog who loves playing, treats, and making others smile at her exuberance for life.

"It has been so amazing watching her evolve into a happy and loving dog," says Stacy.  "It is a delight every day to see how happy she is when I get home, to see her sprinting up when I whistle for her or to simply have her curled up at my side snoring away."

Stella

Stella is a black and white pit bull. She has been enthusiastic and tail-waggy since she arrived at the SPCA. She had a steep learning curve with simple tasts every loved dog takes for granted, like walking through doorways, but she has come a very long way. SPCA staff and Stella's foster family worked patiently with her on basic obedience and leash manners. While she still has reservations around strangers and strange dogs, she does very well with people and dogs she knows well. Stella is now in a permanent foster family.

"Stella loves to be with people and watch all the family action," says her (now permanent) foster SPCA Pet Behavior Specialist Amanda Mouisset. "She loves to go on walks and play with our other dogs. She also loves food, especially treat balls. She is part of our family - a total lickopotamus."

News Coverage

9/10/2008 - KGO ABC7 News story "One of Michael Vick's Dogs fights cancer"

12/7/2007 - KGO ABC7 News story "Michael Vick's Dogs Moved to Monterey"