Religion degrades the value of animal lives!

Before I express my opinion, let me say, that I know not all religious people believe the above, especially some of my friends. My opinion is based on some common things I've heard said recently in some religious gatherings.

I am of the opinion that religion encourages us to not to take animals seriously. It does this by regarding human beings as spiritual beings who alone can comprehend God. Animals cannot comprehend the concept of God, are not spiritual and therefore trivial. Religious folk seem to equate animals with automata like Kant. Animals are mere biological machines that respond to stimuli. Also, religious people see it as degrading to compare human beings to animals. When human beings are not "spiritual" or religious, they are seen to be living on the level of animals. This degradation of animals and placing of humans on a supernatural pedastal can encourage us to overlook the individuality, value and heart of animals (and atheists!). (Please, tell me, if I have misunderstood the opinions of religious people.)

Personally, I don't see this great spiritual divide between humans and animals because I believe we are made of the same stuff. Yes we are further evolved in certain capacities, especially intellectual, but I believe that there are degrees of difference between us and other animals, shades of grey, not black and white. Dr Jane Goodall, would tell you about the similarities between us and chimpanzees, not just in genetics, but in behaviour. Chimpanzees are all individuals, some are strong and aggressive, others gentle and wise, some make good mothers, others are neglectful. They also have complex politics and use tools to get by daily life. The flat where I live, hosts 7 cats and it's fascinating to watch the antics and politics of this community. When I interact with animals, I think it is so wonderful to share this planet with other conscious beings who recognise and communicate with me.

I am tired of animals (and atheists) being degraded by being described as immoral, biological machines, whose lives are essentially meaningless. It's too easy for humans to categorise beings, as "us and them". Them, not at all being like us.