Intelligence doesn't matter; we are trapped in our universe and when the universe ends, so do we. The only difference between us and animals is, that we are aware that we're trapped.
I'm not trapped in the universe, I'm part of the universe; and we have a long time yet to go: if we so choose. All that really matters is what we make of the gifts that the universe provides for us right here and now, (an Earthen body itself is a pretty big gift opening up near limitless possibilities). General animal behavior appears to support a similar perspective. I don't think this trapped feeling you describe is universal. In fact, the universe as it is defined is dependent in whole upon the sensual faculties of the definer (the observer / observed principle). A creature that contains no photo-receptive cells knows nothing of light. This does not imply that said creature is in a dark prison, simply that it knows nothing of light. Space and matter themselves require the time you put into being aware of them to exist (m=e/c^2). The universe is an extension of you: your plaything; not a prison toward impending doom. The word "universe" really implies the speaker's defined sensual limitations; not some shoebox that we inhabit as action figures. Time provides possibilities for growth, not death. How we decide to meet death is simply another character building exercise, and depending upon our decision, can also be an opportunity to help others ten fold. Our environment and future are what we make of them, and are more interdependent upon our perspective of, and relationship with "the universe as a whole" than anything else. This is why it is so important to maintain reverence for life itself - because this reverence breeds beauty.
Intelligence is purely a side effect of health. I can find no argument against every living beings' right to health.
Re: the OP - I'm currently trying to live in the trees as much as possible. However I did push the notion a bit too far earlier in life, enough to give me the perspective to notice an incongruity with the modern world. One must recognize whether the jungle they are currently in is made of trees or concrete, and either live accordingly, or move. Ultimately I've found slow, steady, deliberate changes towards a more wholistic daily routine to be most effective in finding balance (slaying the "brain demons"). Diet and exercise are everything. At the same time, my passions for a small farm in some remote corner of the globe have only grown.
