Post-Protest Care

Bringing Your Dog Home Safely

Just like you, dogs don't decompress the moment the crowd disappears. The physiological and psychological effects of a high-stimulation environment can persist for hours, sometimes into the next day.

The recovery phase requires the same intentionality as preparation. Don't just pack up, drive home, and assume your dog is fine. You still have more work to do.

Take a few moments in a quiet spot before heading home and do a quick check of your dog's health.

Paw Inspection and Cleaning

Before your dog gets in the car, check the following:

  • Check each paw pad for cuts, scrapes, blistering, or embedded debris. Protest environments can have broken glass, gravel, chemical residue, and extreme pavement heat, all of which cause damage that may not be immediately obvious
  • Check between the toes for debris, burrs, and small cuts.
  • Using clean water and a cloth or pet-safe wipes, remove any dirt or debris. If pepper spray or other irritants were present at the event, this step is not optional
  • Note anything concerning and contact your vet if your dog has any injuries.

Offer water immediately, even if your dog drank during the event. Sometimes, a stressed dog will refuse water even if they are thirsty. Now that you're in a quiet place, let your dog have a drink.

Drive home safely with low or no music, temperature control, and a good car harness and seat belt for your dog.

At Home

Let your dog decompress for a few hours in a low-stimulation space. You're probably tired, and so is your dog. Make sure they have plenty of water, offer food, and just let them be. Your dog can choose their level of engagement.

After a short rest, check:

  • The whole body for any cuts, scrapes, or irritation, especially on the paws and legs
  • Eyes for any signs of discharge or irritation or excessive blinking.
  • Ears for any debris
  • Nose for any discharge
  • Joints and gait for any signs of stiffness or limping.
  • Temperature - if your dog is panting, take their temperature. Anything above 104° is an emergency

Call your vet if ANYTHING seems off.

A protest dog with the proper temperament should bounce back quickly, as if they just had a good play session. If anything about their behavior is unusual post protest, then let them stay home next time. Not all dogs are protest dogs, and that is OK.