Michael Vick admits he owns a dog: Should he be allowed to be a pet owner?

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick admitted on Thursday (Oct. 11) that he does own a dog -- just one day after refusing to comment on the matter and a week after having posted a picture on Twitter (above right) showing an open box of Milk-Bone dog biscuits on his kitchen table.

His tweet was later deleted and replaced by a similar photo, sans dog treats. Vick was not permitted to own a dog during his three-year probation following his release from prison in May. He served 19 months for owning and operating a dogfighting ring and two months of house arrest.

"I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet," Vick says in a statement via the Philadelphia Inquirer. "As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. 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."

He continues, "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."