POX: Save the Puppies

Screenshot_2013-07-16-13-13-41POX: Save the Puppies is a game in which players fight the spread of a disease that threatens to take over our pet dog populations. Just like the veterinarians in the real world, players must vaccinate puppies to stop disease spreading and killing our pups. The game is based on the way a typical disease spreads, and players must work together to contain the spread of infection by either vaccinating or curing puppies. While POX: Save the Puppies is fictitious, it is based on a real and deadly disease, Canine Parvovirus – which all dogs need to be vaccinated against. The goal of vaccinating is to protect individuals as well as protect the population and reduce disease spread. Our research shows that playing the game gives players food for thought while also promoting an understanding of systems thinking concepts.

Credits
  • Design: Mary Flanagan, Zara Downs, Max Seidman
  • Programming: Rebecca Leong
  • Graphic Design: Zara Downs
  • Audio: Sukdith Punjasthitkul
  • Music: Paul Orbell
  • General Support: Sukdith Punjasthitkul
  • Veterinary Expertise: Mark Kelman