By Debbie Emery - Breaking Celebrity News Reporter

NFL star Michael Vick is a dog owner again, but fortunately this time the canine is a pet for his children and not a competitor in a cruel dog fighting tournament.

The Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, who served 18 months in federal prison on dog fighting charges, defended his choice of the latest addition to the family that marked the final step in his rehabilitation after his shameful crime.

"I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet," Vick said in a statement, reported ESPN.com.

"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."

As Breaking Celebrity News previously reported, after serving 19 months in a Virginia prison for the gruesome torture and execution of countless dogs at Bad Newz Kennels, Vick was released in July 2009.

He started playing for the Eagles the following September and immediately began trying desperately to rehab his image, which has included working with The Humane Society of the United States to speak out against animal cruelty.