You might want to check out Scripture a bit more thoroughly before running with the idea that animals are there for us to treat any way we choose. Scripture says nothing of the kind. Stewardship means just that. There are numerous Scriptures which show that God has made a covenant with them as well — as in Genesis 9. There are other Scriptures showing that animals are important to God (too numerous to mention but you can google them).
I never will understand why some feel that their “special” relationship to God is somehow threatened by showing compassion to God’s other creatures. Such a mindset demeans mankind and does nothing to demonstrate compassion. No one here said anything about animals being human, but would I call an animal who had served faithfully and loyally a K9 officer or veteran? You bet! (And most who serve with them would as well, by the way!) Do they deserve something better than death at the end of their service? ABSOLUTELY!! But then that’s humanity for you — I’ll use you and then toss you aside like so much garbage because you’re not human. THAT is despicable and does NOT honor the God so many claim to serve.
If such a view offends you remember that you are always free to skip these threads on compassion for animals.
“I never will understand why some feel that their “special” relationship to God is somehow threatened by showing compassion to God’s other creatures.”
Sheer religious egotism.
[or a deep hatred of animals with the attending horror that they *might* have to spend eternity surrounded by them]
Clapping loudly at your Post #48!