Rationale

Inbreeding and breeders mistreating their animals is a common occurrence that the SPCA have to deal with. To represent this unfortunate reality, I created Pongo, a dog with a missing front paw that is emphasised with his long, lanky limbs, resulting is a clumsy demeanour. He isn’t considered the ‘perfect pet’ but if you look past his slightly damaged exterior he is just as loveable as any other pet you could have. All Pongo needs is a little helping hand to make his life easier and the SPCA can help him live the way all dogs should.

The story I have coupled with my character is a more metaphoric response to the phrase “You don’t have to adopt me to help me” that the SPCA asked us to use.  The invisible box that Pongo is trapped in represents the confinements and limitations of life that have been forced upon him due to his peg leg. However, his initial incapability of getting the ball he so desperately wants to play with, doesn’t stop him still trying to get it. Within this, the SPCA opens the door for Pongo so he can finally reach the ball and enjoy his happiness of freedom.

To reinforce the story concept, I have chosen a dark, contrasting aesthetic which creates a distinct emotional response that would be similar to ones reaction to inbred animals in a real life context. At the end, once the door has been open, the scene gets lighter which mimics Pongo’s, and therefore the audiences, change in mood.