Behaviour with Stray Animals from an Islamic Perspective: A Survey Study in Rawalpindi

Abstract

In Islam, animals are considered to be creations of Allah Almighty and are deserving of respect and kindness. Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) is reported to have said that a person who shows kindness to animals will be rewarded by Allah Almighty. However, when it comes to dealing with stray animals, Muslims are encouraged to show compassion and mercy but the people of Rawalpindi have the opposite behaviour toward them. The main aim of the study is to assess the behaviour of people of Rawalpindi towards stray animals. A Historic Record-based literature review was done to establish baselines and a survey study was conducted on the topic in the city of Rawalpindi Pakistan. Furthermore, it's important to note that there may be practical considerations when dealing with stray animals, such as ensuring public safety and preventing the spread of disease. In such cases, it may be necessary to involve local authorities or animal welfare organizations and government institutions to properly address the situation. The study concluded that the Islamic perspective on dealing with animals emphasizes compassion, kindness, and responsibility towards Allah Almighty’s creations but the behavior of the people of Rawalpindi with stray animals is not positive.