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July 18, 2007, 02:54 PM ET
Animal-Rights Supporters Blast Indicted Football Star
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is finding out that supporters can also become critics when a nonprofit group makes it easy for outsiders to post comments on its Web site.
On Tuesday, the group’s director, Daphna Nachminovitch, posted a statement on the organization’s blog following the announcement that Michael Vick, an Atlanta Falcons quarterback, had been indicted on charges that he was overseeing a massive dog-fighting operation in Virginia.
The animal-rights organization has been largely subdued in its criticism of Mr. Vick. And some readers used the blog post as an opportunity to push PETA to be more vocal about Mr. Vick’s case.
“Why is this not plastered all over PETA’s homepage? When this first started in April I came to this site for more info and found nothing,” wrote one supporter, who identified himself only as Andy. “PETA, this is your opportunity to expose and help eradicate dog fighting and over all dog abuse nationwide. Carry the banner and lead the charge!”
Many of the other comments have been directed at the National Football League, Mr. Vick, and his sponsors. Some readers have used the blog to identify companies that sponsor Mr. Vick and have encouraged PETA members to boycott their products. Other posters have listed contact names and phone numbers for representatives from the National Football League and the Atlanta Falcons.
Still others have suggested brutal punishments for Mr. Vick if he’s found guilty. Mr. Vick has said he was not aware of any mistreatment of animals that has taken place on his property.
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