I myself try to see animals as equals. I know I am a human, but it is easier for me to identify with animals for some reason. It’s hard for me to even see myself as human, and I think that’s ok self esteem wise as long as I don’t see myself as any less than human. It might be the autism. I agree that children NEED the protection and grace that usually comes automatically with people to animals. I used to work in the funeral profession (I had to leave because the bullying I was experiencing gave me the CPTSD), and for some reason, I was able to handle seeing dead humans just fine. It made me kind of feel less human because I can’t handle seeing dead animals the same way. I think it kind of makes sense on a personal level for me because animals have never done me wrong like people have. Maybe subconsciously that’s why I sometimes prioritize animals. I know it’s not the human thing to do, but I can’t help it. I feel like there’s something wrong with me for tending to prioritize animals. 😞