What to Do If Your Pet Gets Sick on Mother’s Day | Express Vets
Mother’s Day is meant to be a joyful occasion filled with family, relaxation, and appreciation. But when you’re a pet parent, your furry companion is part of the celebration too. Whether your plans include brunch at home, time in the garden, or a trip with loved ones, it’s important to remember that holidays often bring unfamiliar foods, decorations, and disruptions to routine—any of which can lead to a pet feeling unwell. If your pet gets sick on Mother’s Day, knowing how to respond calmly and effectively is key to protecting their health and ensuring the celebration doesn’t turn into a crisis.
One of the most common problems during holidays is accidental ingestion. Many traditional Mother’s Day treats—like chocolate-covered strawberries, floral bouquets, and rich human foods—can be harmful to pets. Chocolate, xylitol (a sugar substitute in baked goods), grapes, and certain flowers such as lilies are toxic to dogs and cats. If your pet sneaks a bite of something they shouldn’t, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, or even more severe symptoms like tremors or seizures.
Another potential cause of sudden illness is stress or overstimulation from guests, loud noises, or changes in environment. Pets that are typically calm may act differently when their routines are disrupted. They might hide, refuse to eat, or display signs of anxiety that can escalate to physical symptoms. Travel, whether it’s a car ride to a relative’s home or an overnight stay elsewhere, can also upset your pet’s digestion or trigger motion sickness.
If you notice your pet acting out of the ordinary—such as vomiting, panting excessively, coughing, limping, or appearing lethargic—it’s important not to brush it off as minor, even on a busy holiday. Start by assessing the situation in a quiet space where you and your pet feel safe. Remove any potential toxins or hazards from reach, check your pet’s gums for color, and monitor their breathing. If your pet is alert and stable but uncomfortable, try offering fresh water and a calm environment.
However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or involve difficulty breathing, inability to stand, or signs of pain, it’s time to seek veterinary care right away. Even on holidays like Mother’s Day, pet care should never wait if your animal is in distress. While Express Vets provides primary care services, we encourage all pet parents to be aware of nearby urgent or emergency clinics available over the weekend, especially if your pet has known health concerns.
Planning ahead is one of the best ways to prevent holiday-related health emergencies. Keep toxic foods out of reach, remind guests not to feed pets human food, and create a quiet zone where your pet can retreat if needed. Make sure your pet has access to water, fresh air, and a consistent routine wherever you celebrate.
At Express Vets, we believe that pets are family too, and their well-being matters every day of the year. While Mother’s Day should be filled with laughter and love, it’s also a time to stay mindful of your pet’s needs. Acting quickly at the first sign of illness can make all the difference—and help you get back to enjoying your special day with peace of mind.
If your pet isn’t feeling their best this Mother’s Day weekend, don’t wait. Contact your nearest Express Vets location for guidance, or plan ahead by knowing where to go in case of a pet emergency. Your pet’s health is worth it—on Mother’s Day and every day.
