Something to keep in mind is the use of animals in Christian allegory. Not just more contemporary things, like the Narnia Book. In the Bible, sometimes animals represent important people, like Jesus as the the Lamb, or aspects of God, like the Holy Spirit as a Dove. The Evangelists themselves are shown as animals at times: St, Luke as an Ox, St. Mark as a Lion, St. John as an Eagle. In none of these cases, are we being told to worship the animal as an idol. Instead, the animal's rich meaning speaks in a simple symbol what would take a book to explain in detail. The art of the early Christian church is rich in meaningful animals.

I believe Animism is in part a way to understand things beyond a literal meaning using animals. I do not believe it is a worship of animals. I believe my totem animal, the wolf, is like an angel or spirit guide. My animism arose spontaneously out of a time in my life that I was an Atheist, and has stayed with me as my faith and understanding grew. I was a Buddhist for a while, and then was "grabbed" by the Holy Spirit while visiting a church out of politeness (and with no intention of conversion). I'm a Lutheran now.

This is just my perspective. I hope it's giving you something you may find useful. Take care!