Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Weltch
Question
I’m planning on converting to Islam as I was born to a non-Muslim family but my new friends have had a huge impact on me religiously. My parents own a dog but I’m well aware that in Islam, it’s believed that angels won’t enter your home if there’s a dog present inside. I have memorized several surahs which are known to protect me and ensure my safety such as ayat al-kursi but I’m afraid they won’t count since the angels aren’t present in my house.
Since I have no choice but to live with the dog as it is, though I’m against it (the dog), is there a possibility I’ll still get the benefits and effects any other Muslim would recite these under normal circumstances?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate
It is amazing to hear your desire to convert to Islam. As a convert myself, it is the greatest, most profound thing I have ever done. I would advise that you do not delay it, unnecessarily. I pray that your embracing of Islam is the start of a blessed journey and relationship between you and your Creator.
As for your question, see this link for a question/answer almost identical to yours.
Short Summary
You are not accountable nor penalized for that which you are not in control of. Your suras will indeed be accepted by Allah Most High once you take that final step and say the testifications of faith (Ash-hadu An La ilaha ill Allah wa Ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Abduhu wa Rasuluhu – I bear witness that there is no God except Allah and I bear witness that Muhammad (may Allah bless him and give him peace) is Allah’s servant and messenger).
Allah Most High says, “If anyone does good deeds and is a believer, his efforts will not be ignored: We record them for him.” [Quran, 21:94]
Hope this helps
Allah knows best
[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani