The Catechism of the Catholic Church
Respect for the integrity of creation
2415 The seventh commandment [thou shalt not steal] enjoins respect for the integrity of creation. Animals, like plants and inanimate beings, are by nature destined for the common good of past, present, and future humanity. Use of the mineral, vegetable, and animal resources of the universe cannot be divorced from respect for moral imperatives. Man's dominion over inanimate and other living beings granted by the Creator is not absolute; it is limited by concern for the quality of life of his neighbor, including generations to come; it requires a religious respect for the integrity of creation.
2416 Animals are God's creatures. He surrounds them with his providential care. By their mere existence they bless him and give him glory. Thus men owe them kindness. We should recall the gentleness with which saints like St. Francis of Assisi or St. Philip Neri treated animals.
2417 God entrusted animals to the stewardship of those whom he created in his own image. 197 Hence it is legitimate to use animals for food and clothing. They may be domesticated to help man in his work and leisure. Medical and scientific experimentation on animals is a morally acceptable practice if it remains within reasonable limits and contributes to caring for or saving human lives.
2418 It is contrary to human dignity to cause animals to suffer or die needlessly. It is likewise unworthy to spend money on them that should as a priority go to the relief of human misery. One can love animals; one should not direct to them the affection due only to persons.
Clearly we are called to be gentle and respect towards nature yet at the same time, not be nature-worshippers. We can be aware of our consumerism, go out to parks and appreciate nature, treat all living creatures as brothers and sisters, but never place them in a position that is higher than the Creator Himself.
In 2418, it also states clearly the need not to over-spend our resources on animals but to also channel those resources to help people from their oppression or suffering. Unfortunately, this can be interpreted very differntly from people who choose to see an opportunity to exploit nature.
With this knowledge with you, how are you going to respond?
