The Dogs and the Fleas By One of the Dogs

"The Dogs and the Fleas" by Frederic Scrimshaw is a satirical story from the late 1800s that uses talking dogs and fleas to explore big ideas about society and power. The story takes place in Canisville, a town started by dogs wanting to escape the oppressive fleas of Kyhidom, but the dogs quickly encounter problems of their own. At first, things are good with Bull McMastiff as their leader, keeping the fleas away giving them important advice. But after his death, Pup McPoodle becomes the new leader, and the dogs fall into hard times, forgetting everything they once learned. The dogs struggle with real fleas and bigger problems like unfair treatment, trying over and over to get their freedom back. This setup allows the story to comment on government, fairness, and the way people can be used and mistreated, showing both the silly and strong parts of the dog's fight.