Vowing to slaughter an animal without specification

Q: Before my exams in 1995, I made a vow to slaughter an animal if I succeeded, but I did not specify the kind of animal to be slaughtered. I have not fulfilled the vow since then although I succeeded. Please advise.

A: If the reality is as you mentioned, you have to fulfill the vow. Like the Ud-hiyah (sacrificial animal offered by non-pilgrims), it is sufficient to slaughter one goat or sheep. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) has praised the person who fulfills their vows by saying: They (are those who) fulfil (their) vows May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.