In THE BARREL DOGS Tom Cat and the elfin girls set out on a journey into The South Side. To get there, they cross the magical wetlands and then the dark pine forest. Both of these present them with some rather tricky problems. But once they cross the border they meet up with Mrs Muck's son, Bert, and his children Abby and Keanu. Together they travel to Mrs Muck's house where the elves spend the summer. One day, however, they come across a poor unfortunate dog tied to a barrel. They also meet his cruel master, Mr Farmer. The elves use their magic powers to teach Mr Farmer a lesson. But will he learn? This is the fourth book in The Cat Series, written for 6 to 9 year olds.