I agree with you, Diane, and am sorry you are getting flak elsewhere.
People can be quite sanctimonius about how they treat animals - until whatever they like to do with/for/to them is questioned.
I rode a horse several times. They were marvellous experiences for me. But no-one could understand why I was supremely happy just to sit while the horse munched goodies at the edge of the trail - they shouted, and yanked at their horses' bits to keep them moving.
The horses had to do this route all day long to satisfy the customers.
I have not ridden a horse since (about 25 years).
I feel the same way about all animals. As much as my life revolves around my cats (and dog, until recently), I would never, ever have these animals bred for my companionship.
Yet even cats are becoming more and more "bred."
People breed them, and now the latest fashion is never, ever to let your cat outdoors.
For their own good, of course.
So they are being bred for a lifetime of house arrest - by animal lovers. Animal lovers?
I live in a semi - rural area, and I see horses "For Lease" in the newspaper. How can you lease a kindred spirit?