But that is a circular absurd argument. You might as well just say we owe animals nothing because they aren't people. To say they lack "individual personality" to me implies that they lack individuality. That they are automatons. It's observably false.
I understand your point about inappropriate projection of human characteristics onto animals. That's not what we're talking about here.
How so? As part of God's creation we owe them a proper amount of respect and dignity, but one that is subordinate to that given our fellow humans. Certainly we give our pets a greater deal of respect than we do a flea or a tick that we find in their coat...ergo, there is a hierarchy or strata in which we place animal life. All I'm stating is that they should never be on par, or equated with that we give our fellow humans. It can be very difficult, I know...especially when there are humans who insist on living and behaving like feral beasts...
Lordy....my menagerie certainly has unique qualities of individual traits....if not person-hood.
My Rosie (horse) is a rule maker, Sammy (horse)doesn’t trust easily, Bandid (horse), loves everyone, Jack (horse)is playful and energetic. Homer (donkey) is like a grumpy old man but has a soft heart, Jenny (donkey) is like a spoiled whinny child. I have one chicken that loves humans. I had a pet goose for 15 years who was as faithful, dedicated and as loving as any dog. I love them all.