@Methen,
Quote:What brain dead people like this cannot seem to understand is animals are living, breathing beings with the same feelings and emotions that they have.
(I edited your sentence for improved comprehensiveness)
As for an answer...
If the person is brain dead, well, they can't understand anything.
Further, maybe the creatures enjoy being able to offer their usefulness to the humans. (provided they are given proper shelter, food and love...and no cruelty)