(OutLine) Biography Animal Rights ( Michael Dwayne Vic) - Essay Example

and Number Animal Rights Outline I. Introduction A. Throughout history, animals have been used for the purpose of entertainment and sport. B. However, since the beginning of this trend, there has been those who abuse and mistreat these animals.C. In the United States, prosecution of those who perpetrate acts of abuse and cruelty on animals has grown more widespread as has the desire for animal rights.D. One particular case which illustrates both the prevalence of animal abuse and the prosecution of the individuals involved in the animal abuse is the case of pro football player, Michael Vick, who was convicted of dog fighting and sentenced to a lengthy jail stay as well as a hefty fine. E. The Michael Vick case showcases the horrors of abusing animals, especially for sport and entertainment, and illustrates the need for animal abuse to be made illegal in the U.S. and around the world. II. The Michael Vick CaseA.

Who is Michael Vick?1. Talk about his childhood/early football years:a) born on June 26, 1980 in Newport News, Virginia, to teenage parents b) Played football in high school and then in college at Virgina Techc) Vick signed with an NFL team- Atlanta Falcons- where he experienced popularity and success. 2. The dog fighting casea.) 2006- Vick was linked to a dog fighting ringb.) It was discovered that since 2001, he had been having dog fights on his property and took part in many different aspects of the abuse including waging bets and disposing of the bodies. c.) Consequences included suspension from NFL, indicted for animal cruelty, failed a drug test, sued by banks for defaulted loans, and sentenced to 23 months in jail along with 1 million dollar fine.

He ended up serving 21 months in prison and 2 months in house arrest. d.) After his release, he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles and basically his life returned to normal, although there are those who do not feel he has learned his lesson and dislike him for his actions. III. What does the Michael Vick case teach us about animal abuse?A. It showed potential animal abusers that they can receive serious punishment for their actions if they are caught.B. It illustrates that there is still a lot more to be done for animal rights since Vick was involved with the torture, abuse, and death of many dogs and was given less time in prison then some people involved with drugs receive.

Plus, it shows that Vick was able to get his life back for the most part without too much difficulty.C. It shows that dog fighting is still prevalent in our society and there needs to be harsher laws in ensuring that this cannot continue. IV. What kind of laws does the US have that relate to punishing animal abuse and animal rights?A. Every state has laws that make it illegal to treat animals cruelly. The law and their punishments can be found here: http://www.straypetadvocacy.org/cruelty_laws.html B. Discuss the Animal Welfare Act which was signed in 1996 and has been revised a few times since then. C. Discuss how animals are not really being protected by these laws as they are more about ensuring that humans behave in a certain civilized way.

There needs to be more focus on the animals well being than the humans.V. What needs to be done still?A. Discuss animal testing/research, the circus, zoo, domestic animals, and the prevalence of abuse seen within these areas.B. Discuss the best ways to change and stop animal abuse in terms of what kind of laws and punishments would deter perpetrators. This would be based on what is already law versus what is not yet. C. Perhaps talks about what regular people can do in order to help or discuss organizations like PETA and what they have accomplished. VI. ConclusionA.

Cases such as Michael Vick’s are important in that it shows how frequent abuse occurs and how widespread it is. It shows that animal abuse is not always perpetrated by the scuzzy lowlife with the beer belly who lives in poverty, but also by an affluent celebrity. B. Animals are beloved in America, but we still do not have enough legislation to protect these animals who many consider to be as important as a family member. If they are so important, why aren’t they receiving the rights and protection that they need?

References" Michael Vick." 2011. Biography.com 15 Oct 2011, http://www.biography.com/people/michael-vick-241100