Hazrat Abu Hurairah relates that the Messenger of Allah ﷺsaid: “A man felt very thirsty while he was on the way; there he came across a well. He went down the well, quenched his thirst and came out. Meanwhile he saw a dog panting and licking mud because of excessive thirst. He said to himself: ‘This dog is suffering from thirst as I did.’ So, he went down the well again and filled his shoe with water and watered it. Allah thanked him for that deed and forgave him.” The people said: “O Allah’s Messenger! Is there a reward for us in serving the animals?” He replied: “Yes, there is a reward for serving any animate (living being).”
(Sahih Bukhari)
The Holy Messenger Muhammad ﷺhas been hailed as Rahmatul-lil-Aalameen. He was mercy not only to mankind but also to all the worlds and the creatures thereof. His concern was not only the ultimate success of human beings and their salvation from the Hell-fire but the welfare of other creatures as well. In his practical life also he used to feed the cattle and tie the camel himself.
Once he enjoined some of his companions who were riding on horsebacks to go fast in the desert and slow while going through green pastures – in both cases ensuring ease and comfort for the horses. The Messenger of Allah ﷺhas cursed one who mutilates animals or beasts. Thus his own Sunnah and sayings show his utmost care for the welfare of animals.