On May 8th, many countries across the world celebrate a special day in honour of all mothers – for when we want to say thank you!

If you are looking for a compassionate way to surprise your mother on this special day, then look no further! We have put together a list of nine great ideas to ensure your mother has a wonderful animal-friendly day, whilst also contributing to animal welfare!

Tip 1: Surprise your mother with a creative animal friendly breakfast
Nothing says 'thank you' and 'we love you!' better than a delicious breakfast to serve to your mother in the morning. If you also want to keep animal welfare and the environment in mind, you can easily do this without animal products – which brings new creativity to the kitchen! Sweet breakfast pancakes, freshly squeezed juice and hearty veggie spreads make for a relaxed start to the day. Did you know that you can even make a delicious hearty egg salad without egg? Why not take a look at some of our delicious recipes on our FOUR PAWS website!

Tip 2: Sweeten your mother's day with delicious vegan chocolate
There are many wonderful brands that are tender-melting and animal-free, vegan and environmentally friendly! Look specifically for products that contain no palm oil – preferably from a company that pursues sustainable cultivation methods. By the way: vegan chocolates can also be made by yourself too!

Tip 3: Pay a visit to BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach
Trips with your mother are something very special. Why not surprise her with a visit or an exclusive guided tour at BEAR SANCTUARY Arbesbach? The sanctuary is open daily and is the perfect place for an exciting and educational afternoon with your mother. Here you are in good company – everywhere you will encounter different species of animals and animal-friendly people. If there is no animal welfare centre in your area, then a spring walk in a nature reserve is a perfect choice! Make sure to pack a hot tea and delicious vegan cookies for the way! With binoculars and a bit of luck, you can also watch fascinating wildlife there.

Tip 4: Pamper your mother with animal-save beauty products
Perfume, bath kits and toiletries are a popular gift on Mother's Day. No wonder, time for wellness and relaxation in the stressful family life often comes too short. FOUR PAWS recommends animal-free cosmetic products – pay attention to the labeling on the packaging. You will be surprised what choice of heavenly fragrant and nourishing products awaits you – a treat for all the senses.

Tip 5: Donate to an animal welfare organisation on behalf of your mother
What could be better than knowing that your help will sustainably improve the lives of suffering animals? Our animal welfare work is only possible through donations from people like you! Make a difference: As an alternative to a traditional gift, you can donate on behalf of your mother to animals in need. Further information can be found here.

Tip 6: Surprise your mother with vegan summer fashion
With summer clothes and cheerful accessories, your mother is well prepared for the warm months – and will always think of you. If you want to buy animal-friendly fashion, you will find many modern shops with stylish vegan clothing online. Even vegan sandals and handbags are available! 

Tip 7: Give an animal sponsorship as a present
Your mother loves dogs, cats or monkeys? Then give her your very own animal sponsorship for rescued bears! With that you secure the future of these wonderful creatures permanently – that helps the animals and gives you a good feeling.

Tip 8: Create a flower meadow for bees and butterflies
For garden and balcony friends there is nothing better than a sea of ​​colorful flowers. Give your mother some gardening time together – and create a bee or butterfly paradise! With nectar-rich plants such as bluebells, wild sage, hyssop or mallow, you can actively combat insect killing – and enjoy the hustle and bustle. Just ask at your nursery for bee and butterfly plants – best, of course, in organic quality! 

Tip 9: Make your mother happy with animal visitors
Not only insects need our help - even songbirds and other wild animals such as hedgehogs lose their habitat more and more often. If your mother has a garden, she will surely be pleased about feathered or furry visitors. Make the garden hedgehog-friendly with a hedgehog castle and water points, build nest boxes for robins and bluetits together or make an insect hotel. So you're actively involved in wildlife conservation on your doorstep - and have fun together.