Project Brief

Topic Inspiration: 

A number of questions concerning our common areas were raised by observing the stray dogs, their actions, and their unofficial role within our communities. Given their genetic similarity to our domesticated pets, why are these animals left on their own? How do these animals find a home in our urban environments? It's questions like these that keeps us motivated.

Essentially, the objective is to understand the problems stray dogs face at a systemic level and to encourage a more peaceful and empathetic relationship with them in the neighbourhood.

Problem Statement: 

To establish a peaceful co-existence between Dogs & Human society

Research: Areas We Looked Into

1. Feral dogs, Stray dogs, Pet dogs - Secondary Research

2. Basic dog behaviour - Interviewing Dog Trainers

3. Spaces - Site Visits: Gated and Non-Gated Communities, NGO, AMC

4. Stake Holders - Interviews

5. Acts and Laws - Interviews

6. Awareness & Interventions

7. Ecological Impacts - Experts Interviews and Secondary Data

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Insights:

• Kids are more likely to engage in behaviours that could provoke a dog, such as running, screaming, pulling on a dog's tail or throwing stones.
• Children are generally smaller than adults, making them more vulnerable to serious injuries from a dog bite. A large dog may view a child as prey.
• Children may be left unsupervised around dogs, which can lead to dangerous situations.

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Issue:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that children aged 5 to 9 years old have the highest rate of dog bite injuries, and that children are more likely to receive medical treatment for dog bites than adults.

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What ( to do)?

An engaging activity that can teach kids about the dog behaviour and most important save them from getting attacked.

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Context

• Online Platforms and Resources: Create engaging online resources, such as videos, interactive games, and educational websites, that provide information and tips on dog behavior and safety. These platforms can be accessible to children, parents, and educators, offering a convenient and widespread means of learning about dog safety.
• School Programs: Collaborate with schools to incorporate dog safety education into their curriculum. Develop interactive sessions or workshops where children learn about dog behaviour, body language, and safe interaction techniques. This can be done through presentations, videos, role-playing activities, and Q&A sessions with experts.

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Concerned Stakeholders

• Children of age 5-12
• Residents in gated societies
• Residents in non-gated societies
• Parents and caregivers
• Pet Owners
• Healthcare Providers
• Municipal Corporation
• HSI

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End Users

The end users include kids aged 5 to 12 years, that have the highest rate of dog bite cases in India. They need to learn how to prevent dog attacks.

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Organisation (Client)

Humane Society International (HSI):

They work in resolving Animal-Human conflicts and run effective campaigns and awareness programs.

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Scope / Possibility:

HSI - Already working on many community engagement programs that educate people about stray dogs.

Interactive and fun teaching methods capture children's attention and make the learning process more enjoyable. This approach allows for active participation, encouraging children to retain the information and apply it in real-life situations.

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Game Concept:

"Bark & Bond" is an interactive digital game designed to educate children aged 5-11 years about understanding different signs displayed by stray dogs, thus preventing potential dog bites or attacks. The game combines fun gameplay elements with educational content to engage children and teach them essential dog safety skills.

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End User (Player):

"Bark & Bond" has a significant impact on its end users, children between the ages of 5-11 years.

By engaging children in an interactive and fun learning experience, the game effectively educates them about dog behaviour and safety. It empowers children with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs displayed by stray dogs, helping them prevent potential dog bites or attacks.

This not only enhances their safety but also builds their confidence and understanding of responsible interactions with dogs. Ultimately, the game equips children with valuable life skills that can protect them from harm and promote positive relationships with animals.

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Organisation (Client):

For organizations involved in child safety, animal welfare, or educational initiatives, the "Dog Safe Adventure" game provides a valuable tool to support their goals.

By incorporating this game into their programs or curriculum, these organizations can enhance their educational offerings and promote responsible pet ownership.

The game serves as an engaging resource that aligns with their mission of educating children about dog safety. Additionally, organizations can leverage the game to raise awareness about their initiatives, attract funding or sponsorships, and strengthen their reputation as advocates for child and animal welfare.

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System:

The "Dog Safe Adventure" game contributes to the overall system by addressing an important societal issue – child safety in dog interactions. By promoting awareness and understanding of dog behaviour, the game helps create a safer environment for both children and dogs.

It reduces the risk of dog bites and potential conflicts, leading to a decrease in medical incidents, trauma, and related healthcare costs. Moreover, the game fosters a culture of responsible pet ownership and compassion towards animals from an early age, promoting a harmonious coexistence between humans and dogs.

The collective impact of widespread adoption of such games can lead to a significant reduction in dog-related incidents and a positive shift in attitudes and behaviours towards dogs in society.

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Client Feedback:

Thank you for Sharing this. I think the presented Idea of a Digital game has a lot of merit.

- Vrushti Mawani, Humane Society International, Vadodara

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