Earlier today, we came across a dog wearing a chain around her neck, looking lost and desperately trying to find her way home.
It was raining, and though we tried offering food, she seemed more focused on searching for her owner, filled with determination and longing.
I quickly shared a message across animal lovers’ and dog lovers’ communities. The response was amazing - strangers showed concern, shared the news, and offered prayers, all in the hope that this little soul would find her way back to the people who loved her.
And then, by pure luck, or perhaps divine mercy - it happened. After lunch, I accidentally bumped into both the dog and her owner. The owner had been waiting anxiously at a bus stop. When the dog saw her, she immediately recognized her and ran excitedly into her arms. It turned out the dog had accidentally wandered out of the house and gotten lost.
To my surprise, she even recognized me, leaping over with excitement and wagging her tail happily - a sweet reminder that even the smallest kindness is never forgotten.
This moment left me deeply touched, and it reminded me of a few important lessons:
1. Kindness creates miracles
Small efforts like sharing a message, offering food, or even saying a prayer can change someone’s life - even an animal’s.
2. Even when lost, we are never truly alone
There is always someone, somewhere, who cares and is willing to help.
3. Faith and action go hand in hand
While we hope and pray, we must also act - even small steps can lead to beautiful reunions.
4. Compassion extends beyond humans
Helping any of Allah’s creations, especially helpless animals, brings blessings into our lives.
Beauty of Helping Animals in Islam
In Islam, showing mercy to animals is highly honored.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever is kind to the creatures of God, he is kind to himself.” (Bukhari)
And even towards dogs - which we are taught to handle carefully - we are still encouraged to care, protect, and show mercy to them.
There is even a famous hadith where a man was forgiven for his sins because he gave water to a thirsty dog.
Helping needy animals is an act of sadaqah (charity).
It softens the heart, brings Allah’s blessings, and teaches us humility and mercy.
What About Sertu?
Some may wonder - what about ritual cleanliness after touching dogs?
If a dog’s saliva comes into contact with us, Islam teaches us to perform sertu (cleansing with water and soil).
This beautiful practice isn’t just spiritual - it also has physical health benefits, as soil contains natural antibacterial properties.
It reminds us that while we maintain compassion, we also maintain purity and cleanliness - a perfect balance of heart and action.
And if no saliva touched (only fur or dry contact), a normal wash is enough.
Final Reflection:
Today, one lost dog taught me that love, kindness, and mercy have no boundaries.
In a world that often feels fast and disconnected, even a simple act of caring can reunite hearts - and lead a lost soul back home.
May we all continue to spread kindness, help those in need (both humans and animals), and be bridges of mercy wherever we go.
0 Comments