Michael Vick has had a sordid past with dogs, but it appears his history of mistreatment hasn't stopped him from getting another K9.

On Thursday, Oct. 11, Vick and his family released a statement through his publicist revealing that they've got a new dog.

"I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet," said the 32-year-old Philadelphia Eagles quarterback. "As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals."

Just a day before, Vick was asked about owning a dog and refused to comment until his publicist could respond.

The statement continued saying, "I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God's creatures with kindness and respect. Our pet is well cared for and loved as a member of our family. This is an opportunity to break the cycle. To that end, I will continue to honor my commitment to animal welfare and be an instrument of positive change."

Vick has had some other troubles recently - it was reported that he blew roughly $30 million to pay for legal troubles. Vick spent 18 months in prison for operating a dog fighting ring and the amounting legal bills resulted in the quarterback filing for bankruptcy.

Since being released from prison in May 2009, Vick was put on a three-year probation that kept him from owning a dog. He has also worked toward healing his image with animals by assisting the Humane Society of the United States and giving speeches to schools about animal abuse.

Vick had previously talked about owning a dog. He told The Associated Press, "I'm not a psychopath. I'm not crazy. I'm a human being." He continued, "What happened in my past and what I did in the culture I grew up in doesn't shape and mold me as the person I am now."

Tags: michael vick Philadelphia Eagles dog fighting animal abuse