The article “Do animals have rights?” by Mahmoud Ahmad (Jan. 12) reminds me of a quote from the philosopher Immanuel Kant: “We can judge the heart of a man by the his treatment of animals.” Faith777, Online response Islam strongly asks Muslims to treat animals with compassion and not to abuse them. The Holy Qur'an states that all creation praises God, even if this praise is not expressed in human language. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often chastised his companions who mistreated animals and spoke to them about the need for mercy and kindness. Ismaeel Marikar, Online response I read with interest your thoughts concerning animal abuse. I live in America and unfortunately there is much abuse that occurs here. While severe punishment is legally allowed, many offenders get a simple slap on the wrist. There are many studies that show a strong link that those who abuse animals also go on to abuse children, women and the elderly. Because of this, judges are starting to recognize the serious nature of animal abuse. Thanks for writing about this. Donita Mason, Online response Well written article. Of course, animals have rights and should be protected. Even the goat when sent to be slaughtered, the knife should be sharpened according to the teaching of Islam to lessen the pain. Those who treat animals in a cruel manner should be punished. If they have no mercy toward animals they will have no mercy toward human beings. I agree with the writer that the punishment given to those who burn the fox alive was not severe enough. Dr. Ali Alghamdi, Online response
