Animals should not be considered property in the United States of America
We all have the right to destroy our own personal property such as chairs, table etc. But if a human being decides to abuse/destroy an animal it is considered a crime to the animal. Animals are not at all like chairs or a table they are sentient beings. Another reason why animals should not be considered property is because in cases of divorce both parties can ask for visitation of a pet so they are somewhat like children. People do not ask to visit their lamp in another house.
If your animal companion is murdered courts may award “fair market value” which may be around $20 to $50 dollars because of their status as property. It does not matter how much you care about them if they are only considered property.