A scientist developing a system for communicating with animals is soon engaging in non-vocal exchanges with his parrot, who teaches it to the family dog. The pets begin modifying the system on their own, using a camouflaged version to interact with other animals during demonstrations being held for growing audiences. Only the scientist who trained them realizes his non-human proteges could be capable of abstract thought, and suspects the possibility of them organizing to save the planet before mankind can destroy it.