Santa's Little Helper real-life breed will paint a different picture — of dogs that are peaceful, affectionate, [and] not given to drooling, panting". Some ideas for episodes featuring Santa's Little Helper come from reality. The plot of "Dog of Death" was based on Swartzwelder's experiences with his own dog, which had also suffered from bloat. However, unlike the events in the episode, Swartzwelder's dog did not receive treatment as the operation was too expensive and the dog was too old. "The Gold Coast Bulletin"s Ryan Ellem commented in 2005 that the Simpson family's dilemma with the cost of the veterinary procedure is a
Satan's Little Helper unique and daring achievement", describing it as "a satiric commentary on the influence of videogames and fiction, the distinction between fantasy and reality for a child, and the danger and power of Halloween – all in a movie filled with blood, guts and black humour." "Satan's Little Helper" was listed on "Rolling Stone"'s 13 Terrifying Horror Movies You Can't Unsee. Satan's Little Helper Satan's' Little Helper is an American comedy horror film directed and written by Jeff Lieberman. The film stars Alexander Brickel as Dougie, a nine year old boy video gamer. On Halloween, Dougie meets a serial killer and