Very thought provoking, Terry. I agree with Belinda, the extremists are in a different category altogether.
Animals may or may not have rights in any particular city, village, or state. Thank God we have those truly dedicated, hands on advocates that speak out in the court system on behalf of those that have no words. Thank God we have people who rescue animals of all species, to nurture, return to health, re-home, or humanely put down. Thank God that I believe in a God that smiles upon animal advocates. My God lets me believe in the Rainbow Bridge.
I do not put animal rights above or below human rights. To me that's mixing apples with oranges . 2 separate issues, 2 different personal views. Neither view makes me less a (Christian) human being. I believe my personal animal advocacy make me MORE a Christian, than less.