I do not value my life as better, if only because I value others more. I willingly place myself before danger for them, and will eat after they have had their fill.
An animal life that has value to me on a personal level, is valued for their companionship, will be valued more than many other humans.
An animal thought of as food will have only that value.
The value of one life over another is always a balance that is always in flux. Depending on need, want, and many other various desires.
Many would willingly starve before eating a beloved pet. But think nothing of killing and eating a cow or deer for food.
