Animals have rights over us too. We should be kind and merciful towards them. There is a great reward in taking care of animals, birds etc just as it is very sinful to harm them or abuse them. A woman was granted paradise due to her kindness to a dog and another was doomed due to her wickedness to a kitten. Domesticated animals and those used for carrying loads, farming or riding should never be over burdened. Feed them well and give them their due rest. Those who think we are not taught about kindness to animals are mistaken. In fact every living creature should be treated with kindness. If this is the case with animals, imagine how high the status of a human being is! Never abuse or harm fellow human beings.