RICHMOND, Va. -- Dodging the media like he dodges defensive linemen, Michael Vick made a stealth visit Thursday to the federal courthouse in Richmond, Virginia.

WSB-TV Channel 2 has confirmed that Vick was in the courthouse to pick up a summons to his arraignment and bond hearing on Thursday, July 26 on charges related to an illegal dogfighting ring. The bond hearing is set for 3:30 p.m; the arraignment for 4 p.m.

Vick manged to avoid reporters and photograhers outside the courthouse to pick up the summons in person.

He paid $45 to the U.S. Marshals service for the summons.

Federal agents have charged Vick and three others with procuring and training pit bulls for fighting in Virginia and elsewhere. Investigators say some losing dogs died in the pit or were later electrocuted, drowned, hanged or shot.

Vick and three co-defendants will be asked to enter pleas to the felony charges, and a date for the federal trial likely will be set during the arraignment.

The Falcons will open training camp on the same day Vick is in court.

After consulting with the Falcons, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and top league officials agreed yesterday to let Vick play as the legal process determines the facts.