Although I think the tone of the question was rather belligerant, I do think it is a valid one. I have to say I fall somewhere along the middle.

As much as I love my pets, in many ways they are luxery items. The amount I spend on food, grooming, toys, training etc highly depends on the amount I am willing and able to spend on them. They and the care they receive are directly related to the amount of extra money I have around at the end of the month after paying my bills, not unlike the money I spend I on entertainment and nonessentials. Although the money spent on their care and upkeep may have become essential, initially when I chose to acquire them they were not neccessary to my living. Also, although I am happy to provide them homes and to have rescued from the shelter, they are mainly in my possession because they provide me with happiness. After all, why would I have pets if they didn't make me happy?

I do honestly think it's a little silly when very wealthy people (including celebrities) spend thousands on silly things for their animals, like diamond studded collars and fancy beds. My pets don't have the best, most expensive food or litter box or collar. My purchasing decisions are based on quality versus price.

To be honest, I also sometimes cringe when an animal has suffered from tremendous abuse and there are these huge rewards to find the perpetrator. Unless they are from wealthy or famous background, there are just so many children out there who are raped and abused and nothing is done about it.

Also, although there are many people who are poor because in some ways they "deserve it" whether it be because of drugs, or alcohol or even lack of determination [I especially can't stand it when people who can't even support themselves, proceede to have a bunch of kids], there are just so many people who are stuggling to improve their situation but are unable to. People who are working 2 to 3 jobs and are still living from pay check to pay check, making it impossible to get ahead. And it's often hard to get benefits because a lot of jobs require you to work full time and then schedule all employees under 40 hrs a week.

I do think it is a social responsibility to help the less fortunate, and I feel very guilty because I live a rather selfish lifestyle and do not do nearly enough. HOWEVER, I am inclined to feel much less guilty about the money I spend on animals, than the money I spend on clothes, going out, my computer and my fancy high speed internet connection. The amount of money I have spent on clothes, electronics and travel would probably have helped a lot of people, and I think that as far as sacrifices I should make, those are the ones that should be a priority.