I would say this is a classic case of a "collector" which is a mental illness-I deal with people like this often and they are a challenge to say the least.
As far as the arguement of animals and people being the same-on some levels yes they are. They are entitled to (IMO of course)food, shelter, protection from the elements, ability to move around (i.e not be confined to a tiny square box or chained up), not be physically abused (or even mentally for that matter). People that do food animal medicine often have a different opinion-animals are a comodity and food source-I can't think that way. But, they are still entitled to have plenty of fresh food/water available and protection from the harsh elements (which in Texas can be 115 degrees during the day so they need some shade-pretty simple).
They are currently classified as property in Texas and thus prosecuting people for abuse can be difficult but laws are getting strictor. Part of me wishes they were not classified as property-that way people can get stiffer jail sentences. But, in this litigious society people then would start to sue for mental anguish etc.. and veterinary medicine will eventually end up like human medicine-outrageous prices, increased liability insurance for vets. and in turn this will be passed on to the client. Instead of a 50-150$ spay you will be looking at a 500$ spay. Only the rich would be able to treat their sick pet and I can guarantee there won't be medicaid for pets
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