Animals are not property. They are sentient beings with their own desires, interests, and rights to life and liberty. You cannot justify using a sentient being for human gain, no matter how "humane" the conditions are.
Understanding the nuance between these two concepts is essential for any meaningful discussion on the topic. Animal Welfare: The "Humane Treatment" Standard
You do not have to pick a side to do good.
The tension between welfare and rights is not abstract; it dictates strategy. This creates a fierce internal debate within the animal protection movement.