An eight-year-old pit bull named Red, who was once a part of Michael Vick’s infamous dogfighting kennels has died after a short battle with cancer.
Red, an eight year old pit bull arrived at the Monterey County SPCA with scars on his face and chest. Though he had a violent past, Red filled a vital role by helping SPCA Pet Behavior Specialist Amanda Mouisset with her behavior consultations.
Red was trained to fight other dogs but he found his calling helping to calm aggresive dogs. True to his gentle nature, Red would sit relaxed in the training area, serving as a calming agent while Mouisset and her client eased the other dog’s aggression by redirecting focus and energy.
Red shared a home with Mouisset, 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.
Last week, 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 Mouisset 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 died Monday night.
“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.”
To help rescue other abused animals, please share Red’s story with your friends or donate to The SPCA for Monterey County in memory of Red. www.spcamc.org/
http://www.thedogfiles.com/2010/04/08/michael-vick-dog-dies-of-cancer-had-legacy-of-helping-animals/
I am sorry to hear this news--happy that Red had some time for love and happiness in his life--to make up for some of vick's poisonous actions.
ReplyDeleteIf I were to hear the same medical condition befell vick--no sorrow would come from my direction--only the thought that KARMA and JUSTICE had prevailed.
To Red's Family: Know that you are loved and respected for your kindness and loving hearts.
At least he passed away with those who loved him. Many other innocent American Pit Bull Terriers(and other "Hated" dog breeds) aren't so lucky. Thanks to the ignorant and malicious people in the world many dogs don't get a chance to live. It's good to see that more people want to save these dogs then kill them. I recently rescued a APBT and she's just a huge baby. I'm very glad to see things have began to turn around for APBTS. That only sad thing is what poor dog breed is going to be next on "#1 Most Hated Dog List?" If another breed takes the Pit Bulls place I'll fight to save them too.
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