Plunger Pup
A delightfully absurd superhero comedy about a heroic dog who battles evil across Earth and the cosmos—armed with nothing but a magic plunger. Self-published from 1997 to 2001.
📖 self-published • Started 1997
Michael Grassia launched his comic career in 1997 with the gloriously ridiculous self-published series Plunger Pup—a superhero comedy about a dog who battles evil both on Earth and throughout the galaxy using a magic plunger. Running until 2001, the series established Grassia’s signature blend of cartoon humor, action-adventure, and heartfelt charm that would define his later work on The Whimsical Wiz.
The premise is pure comic gold: a plucky canine hero armed with a mystical plunger that can unclog anything—not just backed-up drains, but dimensional rifts, villainous schemes, and the occasional cosmic injustice. From street-level crime-fighting to intergalactic escapades, Plunger Pup barrels through each adventure with infectious energy and a never-say-die attitude. The series features a colorful supporting cast of both human and animal allies, each contributing their own brand of chaos.
Though the original run ended in 2001, Grassia has periodically revisited the character. In 2013, he produced new sample strips exploring the possibility of bringing Plunger Pup back as a webcomic, and has stated the character remains close to his heart—he regularly contemplates a full-fledged return. You can view sample strips and read the complete history of the series on Grassia’s website.
Perfect for fans of classic cartoon humor like Calvin and Hobbes meets superhero action, Adventure Time energy, and anyone who believes the best heroes come in unexpected packages—especially furry ones with plumbing tools.
