"President [Joseph F.] Smith wrote that kindness brought joy to men and comfort to animals 'even when practiced towards the lowest of creatures.' Man's happiness is increased because of his kindness to animals for two reasons, wrote President Smith. Freedom from fear of man made for better relations between man and beast. Also beneficial to man was 'improved conditions of thought and feeling' in man."
Other Sources
Other Writings of Mormons | Animals and the Church (2003) Page 61, footnote: Joseph F. Smith, "The Love of Animals," Juvenile Instructor, XLVIII (February, 1913), 84.
Published in
Human Character and Stewardship