Dog Man: Mothering Heights

The ukulele, which is referenced in Chapter 11 when Petey recalls his mom playing to him in the Happy Home Shelter, symbolizes Petey’s mother’s love for him. She strives to create a joyful and happy atmosphere even though “things were pretty tough” and “[they] didn’t have much money or food” (155). She reminds Petey that “[they] still have love” (155). Love is represented as the most important thing that a parent can provide for a child.

The symbolism of the ukulele is extended in Chapter 15 when Petey plays it for Li’l Petey. The unconditional love of Petey’s mother for Petey grows to encompass Petey’s unconditional love for Li’l Petey. In this way, Petey’s mother’s love and hope for their future continue in Petey and Li’l Petey’s relationship.

Toilet humor is a recurring motif throughout Dog Man: Mothering Heights, as well as through Dav Pilkey’s other works in the Captain Underpants and Dog Man series. Toilet humor is introduced in the exposition when Dog Man injures himself “in the Line of Doodie” (25). This satirical version of the oft-used phrase “Line of Duty” carries connotations of serious and life-threatening injuries acquired in a noble cause, such as defending the safety of civilians in a police chase or war zone.