I can certainly understand it. I don't put animals on the same level as humans, but I feel sad when mine have passed on, and I feel sad when I hear about cruel things being done to any animal...especially a sweet pet.
Not mourning their passing does lower us though.
I have a cat I love dearly. Not the same way I would a child but the way I love a cat. I dread the day of his passing.
Love and caring do not have to be rationed out and loving a pet does not reduce the love we have for people. It expands it.