Is Keeping Pets Christian?

I am doing some research for a paper regarding God's design for animals.  I'd love some input regarding 1) What was God's purpose for animals before the Fall and 2) What is His thinking now, regarding keeping pets?

This conversation was prompted by a discussion with someone who believes that people today have an unhealthy affection for animals. I'm not talking perversion and I'm not talking the extreme vegan lifestyle; just more "love" for animals than God intended.

If my affection for my pets is sin, I want to know it and I want to correct my behavior, just as I would with any other sin. There is a good bit on topic #1 online, but practically nothing regarding #2; so, I haven't been able to find much of anything to help me make wise decisions.  I've decided that, since there isn't any such resource available, to research it myself, getting input from respected sources, and put together a paper on it myself.  When you reply, please give me Scripture references and/or quotes from respected Christian expositors, as I need qualified statements.  "In a multitude of counselors there is wisdom."

It will be interesting to see what the mainstream, Christian opinion is.  Thank you, Victoria