Shih Tzu wearing a red harness sits on green grass next to a protest sign that reads "Black Votes Matter." The dog is leashed and looking directly at the camera. Part of a person’s legs and another sign are visible in the background.

About

Where activism meets paws and purpose.

Citizen Pup was born from a simple truth: dogs don’t just walk beside us—they move us. They nudge us forward, into action, into connection.

At Citizen Pup, we believe your dog isn’t just a pet—they’re a protest buddy, a road trip co-pilot, a nap-time therapist, and a reminder to stay grounded in joy. Our content and products celebrate the bond between humans and dogs and the causes we care about—from racial justice to human rights to climate action.

You’ll find gear and guides for traveling with your pup, unapologetically political merch, and stories that remind us that resistance can be soft, snuggly, and joy-fueled.

Citizen Pup is run by Jess Ayden Li (a dog trainer, organizer, and an unapologetic nonprofit consultant) and her 12-pound Shih Tzu service dog, Hansyn. He’s the real boss—she’s just there to carry the treats.

We’re not just raising awareness.
We’re raising paws.

Graphic of alternating black and blue paw prints with a heart and paw print logo at the top and the words 'the citizen pup' below.