Walt Disney created a whole new reality based on Anthropomorphism . Mickey, Donald, Goofey and friends are still 'alive' and well 50 years after his death.
Everyone likes to pretend once in a while. What's the harm in it?
However, we now have legitimized Animal Rights movements because people have come to believe Animals are ... uh, well ... Human .
There are even a great many people who believe in an eye-for-an-eye when it comes to Animal mistreatment.
There is probably a better way to put this but, in reality, this is just sick, perverted, wrong-headed Paganism .
Humans are meant to Love God and one another. Wasting emotions and money on Animals as pets is perversion of God's Creation and purpose .