Everyday intentions
Niyyah for kindness to animals: a good intention
I care for animals because there is reward in kindness to every living creature.
A good niyyah for kindness to animals
Forgiven for a drink of water. A man gave water to a thirsty dog and Allah forgave him; there is reward in serving any living creature (Sahih al-Bukhari 2363).
Feed the birds, mean it. A tree planted or a crop sown that a bird, a person or an animal eats from is sadaqah for the one who planted it (Sahih al-Bukhari 2320).
A small amount goes a long way: give sadaqah and follow it to the people it reaches.
Habits that go with it
Small sunnahs around the act.
- Put out water for birds in a hot spell (Sahih al-Bukhari 2363).
- Treat working and pet animals gently: those who show mercy are shown mercy (Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi 1924).
A card for the niyyah for kindness to animals
“I care for animals because there is reward in kindness to every living creature.”
