In 2007, authorities rescued 51 Pit Bulls from the Virginia home of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, where they endured horrific abuse—beaten, electrocuted, hung, drowned, and forced to fight.
While three of the dogs sadly perished, 48 brave survivors were nurtured by rescue organizations and their forever families, who showed them love and patience. One of these survivors, Frodo, lived a remarkable 15 years, passing away on December 18, 2021. After spending a year in the nightmare of Vick’s compound, he enjoyed 14 years of being “pampered like a prince.”
BAD RAP, an Oakland-based nonprofit animal protection group, announced Frodo’s death on Facebook, emphasizing their vital role in advocating for and rehabilitating the rescued dogs. Their heartfelt tribute read:
“To Frodo – We all adored him. He was one of the most valiant survivors we’d ever met.”
Frodo lived a joyful life with his loving family. BAD RAP detailed his final moments:
“While his mother, Kim Ramirez, and her daughter Dominique were crying, Frodo enjoyed a huge bag of steak. Thank you, Dr. Williams, for caring for him until the end. He trusted you, and you exceeded his expectations.”
Frodo’s Recovery
Throughout his life, Frodo became the face of efforts to change the negative stereotypes surrounding Pit Bulls, exemplifying the power of patience and kindness in a dog’s recovery.
BAD RAP, experienced in rehabilitating dogs from fighting backgrounds, believed in these animals from the start. They stated, “Frodo demonstrated that dogs rescued from cruelty incidents need early socialization to grow up strong and fearless.” He was likely 3 to 6 months old when apprehended and spent six long, isolating months in confinement before his rescue.
When Frodo was saved, he was incredibly timid and scared. Kim Ramirez shared in a 2009 interview, “The sound of anything mechanical would frighten him. Our ceiling fans made him fixate on them in fear. If I opened a closet, he would escape. Microwave popcorn might remind him of gunfire.” Although he likely didn’t witness the fights, the sounds haunted him.
Frodo was fortunate to be adopted by the Ramirez family, who showered him with love. When his legs eventually weakened, they transported him in a stroller, showcasing their unwavering care.
A True Survivor
Frodo’s passing marks the end of an era for the 48 surviving “Vick” dogs. As of 2019, thirteen of them were still alive. Jonny Justice passed away just two days before Frodo, and Uba crossed the rainbow bridge in October 2021.
These dogs were given the chance they deserved and, despite their tragic beginnings, lived fulfilling lives. Their stories illustrate the extraordinary impact of animal rights activists working together.
Michael Vick was sentenced to 19 months in federal prison for dogfighting and admitted to killing dogs. While the case highlighted an injustice, it also shifted public perception of Pit Bulls and demonstrated that even the most abused canines can be rehabilitated.
