It all depends on how you view your keeping... I prefer and have been using the term companion animals for years now, although I'm not always comfortable using it because people become very judgmental when they hear it.
My reasons may not be aligned with whoever made it a national issue, but the words pet, owner, etc. are very loaded words, and are a result of the domination discourse that have been, and still are, so strong in our society.
Relationships with reptiles aren't like those with domesticated mammals--to me, it is much more of a "let's see if I can provide you with an adequate environment, and I don't care that you won't ever wag your tail when you see me" kind of thing.

I have no issue whatsoever with people continuing to use traditional terms for the animals they keep, it's a personal choice, but don't knock the general use of the term just 'cause you don't agree with it. No one can make you use the term, it's all about your worldview and perception of the matter.

Just my opinion, not claiming I'm right by any means, but please people, it's a personal choice--always has been, and always will be.