Micah Brooks' short animation, "Beware of Dog," is a scant eight-seconds long, but we're pretty sure it will grab your attention. 

"Beware of Dog" was one of 10 finalists and semi-finalists in the first-ever GoComics Short Shorts Animation Contest. You can view all 10 of these witty and wonderful animated features by clicking here.

We recently chatted with Micah about his animation background, and how the rural Oklahoma native came up with the the very shortest of the "Short Shorts" semi-finalists. 

GoComics: What inspired you to create this animated short? How did you come up with the idea?

The inspiration for "Beware of Dog" came from my own dog, Dude. He's always popping out of nowhere, and I thought it would be funny to see something done with the famous — or infamous — "beware" sign. Thankfully though, he isn't as mean as his cartoon counterpart. Just don't get between him and some vanilla wafers.

GoComics: Who are your biggest creative influences?

My biggest influences would have to be the classics — Chuck Jones, Friz Freleng, Bob Clampett, and so on. Also, Monty Python for the outright absurd.

GoComics: What is your all-time favorite animated feature?

The original Jungle Book. The perfect blend of great animation and great music.

GoComics: What is the most challenging part of the animation process for you?

Comedy is a big challenge, especially in terms of getting the timing just right for maximum hilarity. As it happens, it's also the funnest part of the process. I mean when I'm not pulling my hair out.

GoComics: What do you envision yourself doing in five years?

I see my future self with a steady output of animated shorts and comic strips. There's much absurdity to be had in this world — now more than ever ...

GoComics: How did you learn about the Short Shorts contest? Why did you decide to participate (besides the $25,000 grand prize)?

I learned about the contest via an article on the "Muddy Colors" art blog. The "short short" limitations caught my attention. I wanted to challenge myself by seeing if I could make people laugh in under ten seconds.