Q 3: Is it unlawful for a Muslim to wash dogs and pigs? What is the ruling on someone whose job is to wash them? Can the person wash himself from the impurities of these two animals in the same way he washes a utensil licked by a dog seven times using sand in one of them, or is there any other way? How can a person purify himself after slaughtering a pig? Taking into consideration that he cannot find any other job. Why are dogs and pigs impure?

A: Washing dogs and pigs is unlawful. Therefore, it is not permissible for a Muslim to practice this as a profession, as it entails coming into contact with impurities without necessity. It has been authentically reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, If a dog drinks from the utensil of anyone of you, it is essential to wash it seven times. (Agreed upon by Al-Bukhari and Muslim). It has also been reported by Ahmad and Muslim that, “The purification of a vessel belonging to one of you, if a dog licks it, is to wash it seven times, the first time with earth.” (Part No. 14; Page No. 472) Washing a pig is more grievous compared to washing a dog and thus, this person should leave his job. Allah (Exalted be He) says, ...and whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make his matter easy for him. And whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.