6 Ways Your Life Will Change When You Adopt A Dog

by Amy Tokic

Published: June 20th, 2013

6 ways your life will change when you adopt a dog

Your life will change when you adopt a dog – and here’s what you’re in for!

When you adopt a dog, your life is going to change. At first, it’s going to take some getting used to. You may curse under your breath or resent the change in your routine. That’s why we put together the list of 6 ways your life will change when you adopt a dog.

You’re going to get more exercise: Time to get that flabby butt in gear! You’re going to be getting up early to walk your newly adopted friend. But don’t think of this as a negative point. This is a great excuse to take up power walking, jogging and running. Besides, all those endorphins will be pumping and will keep you peppy for the rest of the day. Don’t be surprised to find that butt of yours a whole lot firmer after a couple of months of walking your dog.
You’re not going to be able to splurge on expensive coffees or new shoes when you feel like it. A dog is another mouth to feed… and buy toys for… and take to the vet. The costs that come along with a dog may not be substantial at first (we’re talking about the adoption fee, which usually runs a couple hundred bucks), but there are other incidentals that you may not have factored in. Dog insurance (for medical bills), food, toys, training lessons and equipment, and even poop bags – it all adds up. But here’s the good news: The time you don’t spending on pointless shopping sprees can be spent cuddling with your newly adopted BFF.
You’re going to have more chores. Taking care of a dog is work. You’re going to have to groom them, clean up after them (inside and outside of the house) and replace things that you leave carelessly about for him to chew on. If a dog is bored, his energy could turn destructive. This means chewed up furniture, bathroom accidents and an overall unhappy pooch. Schedule time every day to take care of these chores and think of it as a time to bond with your new buddy.
You’re going to meet a lot of new people. When you have a dog, people want to stop and chat. Perfect strangers will stop you on the street, ask all kinds of questions and give your dog a scratch behind the ears. At the dog park, you’ll meet other dog parents that will want to share experiences and funny stories. But don’t be too offended if no one remembers your name – they will always remember your dog’s name!
You’re going to be healthier and live longer. Now here’s something to look forward to. Studies have shown that people who own a dog are happier, healthier and live longer lives. Dogs will decrease blood pressure and lessen stress. People who have had heart attacks and have a dog tend to live longer than those without pets. And dogs give us a sense of purpose and help us fight depression, teaching us about compassion and boosting our self-esteem. You get all of these good things when you adopt a dog.
Lots and lots of unconditional love. Here’s another thing you have to look forward to when you adopt a dog. This furry fellow is going to be over-the-moon happy to see you every time you walk through the door, whether it’s been a few minutes or you’ve been gone all day. If you have a bad day, he’ll be ready and willing to lend a floppy ear to listen to your troubles. And when all else fails, he’ll cuddle up on the couch with you to chase away the blues.

How did your life change when you adopted a dog? Do you have any tips for our community members that will help them understand what they are in for? Leave your comments and tips down below.

Photo credit: Christian Mueller/Shutterstock

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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It's National Puppy Day–Here Are 3 Meaningful Ways You Can Celebrate

It’s not like we needed a dedicated National Puppy Day to share some love for these tiny, cute bundles of fur, but it sure doesn’t hurt to have an official day to celebrate all things puppies! Founded in 2006, March 23rd, by an animal rescuer and pet lifestyle expert, Colleen Paige, this holiday is, however, not just about gushing over adorable puppies of all shapes and sizes. Its main goal is to raise awareness about the horrors of the puppy mill industry and get a single message loud across – adopt, don’t shop. Related: 6 Ways Your Life Will Change When You Adopt A DogAccording to the Humane Society, the estimated number of puppies sold annually who originated from puppy mills is around 3.3 million puppies – a staggering number. Having in mind that puppies that hail from these horrifying places are often sick and abused, any number is too great, but those in the millions definitely give cause for alarm to any pet lover. This is why it’s essential to instill the importance of making educated and humane choices when wanting to introduce a new pet to the family – and what better day to do that than National Puppy Day, a one day a year that’s solely about adopting puppies and giving these fur babies a second chance at a happy life?Related: 10 Signs Your Dog is From a Puppy MillEven though this holiday had its start in the US, it is observed all over the world, mainly on social media with the hashtag to help spread the word and drive home the message that adoption should be the primary choice of any dog lover. But is logging onto social media and sharing a cute puppy post all you can for National Puppy Day? If you are able and willing, there are more meaningful ways to celebrate this pooch-inspired holiday – here are the 3 best ones. #1 Donate to a Local ShelterIt doesn’t have to be a big chunk of your budget to matter – even the most modest of donations can immensely help shelters and rescues continue with all the good work they do. Even better, you can use your social media platform to motivate your friends and family to donate too! #2 Volunteer or FosterYou might not be able to offer financial help, but sometimes, it’s your time and effort that could be even more valuable. Shelters and dog rescue organizations are always in need of volunteers and/or foster families to help lighten the load, improve the quality of life for the dogs in their care, and help get them to their final goal – finding a forever home for their wards.#3 Open Your Heart and Home to a Rescue PuppyThe best thing you can do, not just on National Puppy Day, but any other day of the week is to make sure that the message of the holiday lives on by adopting instead of buying a dog. An estimated 1.5 million cats and dogs get euthanized in shelters across the US each year, and even in no-kill shelters, some four-legged angels wait for months, if not years to find a home. Why not get a best friend for life and save a life in the process?

Interested in Pets for Adoption? Adoptapet Has Thousands Looking for A

Before You Shop, Consider All The Pets For Adoption On Adoptapet.com There are thousands of pets for adoption and it makes sense that you should look into this option before you go to a breeder. Just look at the numbers – about 4 million dogs and cats are killed each year because of overpopulation. Overall, about 25 to 30 percent of dogs for adoption are purebred and 70 to 75%, of course mixed-breed pups that can’t wait to find their forever home. This is where Adoptapet.com comes to the rescue! Adoptapet.com is North America’s largest non-profit pet adoption website. By connecting with over 12,000 animal shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, pet rescue groups, and pet adoption agencies, this site showcases thousands of pets for adoption, for free. Prospective pet parents can browse the site to find their perfect pet. Related: 7 Ways a Shelter Dog Can Improve Your Life How It Works Adoptapet.com wants to make the search of its pets for adoption as simple and easy as possible for you. You can search for dogs, cats or other animals based on a number of options. Just put in your Zip or Postal Code, along with the distance, breed, sex, size, color and age. There’s also consideration for special needs and bonded pairs. Click GO Fetch Now and you’re presented with a list of animals that match your requirements. Because Adoptapet.com is connected to pet agencies across North America, the list is long. It will be hard to pick just one (so you should totally bring home two or three). By connecting with over 12,000 animal shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, pet rescue groups, and pet adoption agencies, this site showcases thousands of pets for adoption, for free. What’s Next? Once you’ve found your match, you contact the rescue organization that listed the particular animal. And that’s easy, because Adoptapet.com has all the relevant contact information provided. You don’t have to do any additional research to track them down. Each adoption agency has different rules, regulations and processes, so be sure to check out the website before contacting them. Related: 6 Ways Your Life Will Change When You Adopt A Dog What Else You Can Do to Help If you want to go the extra mile for these furry cuties, you can spread the word. On each animal posting, you can share the pets for adoption on popular social networks or you can email it to a friend. Just because it wasn’t the dog or cat for you, perhaps it’s the perfect match for one of your friends. And that will give you a warm feeling inside! Adoptapet.com Extras Adoptapet.com has lots of extras. On each of the individual pet posts, there are links that let you donate to a shelter and print pet information. There are also pet articles that cover a host of important topics. On top of that, there’s the Save-A-Pet TV show, where famous pet owners such as Drew Barrymore, share their experiences with us. Remember, when you adopt a dog or cat from a humane society, an animal shelter, an SPCA, or a dog rescue or cat rescue group, you are saving a life. And that makes you a hero – just one look into your pet’s eyes reaffirms that fact. And Adoptapet.com is your partner in saving lives! To get paired up with pets for adoption, visit Adoptapet.com now. If you know of an animal rescue or advocacy site or organization that can use a little extra publicity, please tell us about it. We love to share this information to our readers.

Newly Adopted Dog May Lose Forever Home Because of His Looks

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Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

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This Farm Offers Cuddle Sessions With A Pack Of Adorable Goldens

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Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs?

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Half of Americans Believe Pets Steal the Spotlight During Holidays

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Sleeping With Pets: Here's What Experts Have to Say

Pet parents adore their four-legged companions so much that they choose to sleep with them at night. Research shows that more than half of pet owners sleep with their pets. Most pet owners consider their pets part of the family, so it is no surprise that they will go out of their way to ensure their furry companions’ comfort. However, with an increasing focus on our sleep health, pet parents are starting to wonder about the potential disadvantages of sleeping with pets. In fact, sharing a bed with a pet is the subject of controversy among pet parents.Various studies suggest that there are many benefits to sleeping with pets. And experts tend to agree. According to Audrey Wells, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, a pet can provide an emotional connection and reduce anxiety and stress levels, therefore promoting sleep. “Some people may consider their pets an added layer of security, dependable to alert them to unexpected noises or lights.”Another benefit of sleeping with your pet is that they can keep you nice and warm during the night. People who get chilled easily might enjoy cuddling with a furry companion during frigid winter nights.“Pets are sensitive to routine, and they can help enforce a regular bedtime and better sleep quality for their owner,” explained Dr. Wells. “Similarly, pets can signal wake-up time in the morning and even prompt some time outside for a walk and daylight exposure.”If you enjoy sleeping with your pet and find it beneficial for your sleep, the science agrees with you. According to Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavioral Coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society, studies have found that some people sleep more soundly when their dog is sleeping next to them. “If you and your dog both sleep well together, you’ll enjoy the health benefits that come with a good night’s sleep, such as improved mental clarity, lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system,” explained Farah.According to Teddy Cralle, Ms, RN, certified clinical sleep educator, some people sleep better when their pet is in the bed, but some don’t. If there’s a chance that you won't get a good night’s rest while sleeping with your pet you shouldn't sleep with them in the first place. For example, if you’re a light sleeper and your dog likes to change positions during the night, sleeping with your pooch may wake you more often, resulting in low-quality sleep. Also, some pups like to claim the entire bed for themselves, leading to a sleepless night and a backache. “Sacrificing your sleep means sacrificing your health, well-being, and quality of life - and that is not a sacrifice to make,” Cralle added.Sharing a bed with a pet may not be the best idea if you’re an asthma or allergy sufferer. Although some dog breeds shed less than others, no dog is truly hypoallergenic because it’s their dander and not hair that triggers an allergic reaction. Zoonotic diseases are another downside of sleeping with pets. Research has confirmed that sharing a bed with a pet can increase the exposure rate to pathogens that might be present. Although no one wants to think about it, pets can bring unwanted guests to your bed. Fleas and ticks are the most active during the warmer months, but the truth is they can infest your pet all year long. If the downsides of sleeping with your pet have made you reconsider your sleeping arrangement don’t fret - you can still have your pooch close by while you sleep. A crate or a cozy dog bed next to your bed will help everyone get a good night’s rest. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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FDA Approves New Treatment for Anxiety and Fear in Cats

It’s no secret that most cats get really stressed out when they have to leave the house, especially for a trip to the veterinarian. And the anxiety and fear that your pet experiences can certainly affect you as a pet parent as well, making you feel awful about having to put your cat through such a scary experience.The good news is there are things you can try to help reduce the stress your kitty feels, and one of the latest solutions is a new treatment recently approved by the FDA.Bonqat for CatsIn November 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pregabalin, also known as Bonqat, for cats.The oral solution is not a sedative; instead, it affects the neurotransmitters that are involved in acute anxiety and fear. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the stress experienced by cats who are being transported for any reason, and it can be helpful for those who get frightened when they go to the vet.To determine if this medicine would be effective, cats were given either a placebo or Bonqat before being transported by car and examined by a veterinarian (the cats had a history of being fearful and/or anxious under those circumstances). The results? While roughly one-third of the kitties who got the placebo had a positive response, just over half of those given the medicine did better while being transported and examined. Also, over the course of two examinations, 77% of the kitties who took Bonqat had less fear and anxiety, while 46% of those given the placebo exhibited an improvement in their fear and anxiety levels.Discuss Bonqat with Your VeterinarianYou can only get Bonqat with a prescription from your veterinarian, so discuss its pros and cons to determine if this medicine would be right for your cat based on factors like age and medical conditions. And bear in mind that side effects, such as ataxia, vomiting, and lethargy, might occur with Bonqat.To reap the benefits of Bonqat, you simply give it to your cat about 1.5 hours prior to transporting them or taking them to the vet. This medicine is a liquid, and it can be given to your pet with a bit of food.Also, there are some precautions that need to be taken while administering this medicine to your cat. For example, it shouldn’t make contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. So, in addition to talking to your vet about how to use it correctly to ensure your cat gets the best results, you also want to be well-informed about how to handle this medicine safely.For more information about Bonqat and how it works, click here.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Choose the Best Muzzle for My Dog?

With the news of the recent American Bully XL ban in the UK, conversations around dog muzzles have been popping up all over social media. The growing discussion has opened the door for dog owners in the United States to consider the benefits of using a muzzle for their own dogs for many reasons, including scavenging, reactivity, and even short-term use for veterinary and grooming appointments. But with so many different styles of muzzle on the market, how do you choose the best muzzle for your dog? We have you covered! In this guide, we will discuss the different muzzle types available, what each type is best suited for, and the proper fit of a dog muzzle. Plus, I will share which muzzle we currently use with our reactive dog, Lucifer, and why. Let’s get started… Things to Consider When Shopping for a Muzzle for Your Dog When selecting a muzzle for your dog, there is no singular “best option” that will work for every dog and situation. On one hand, this can be frustrating as it leaves you feeling overwhelmed navigating the wide assortment of options. On the other hand, it means you can purchase a muzzle uniquely suited for your dog’s needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when making your decision: MaterialThere are several materials to consider when shopping for a muzzle, including metal, plastic, rubber, vinyl, leather, Biothane, fabric, silicone, and more. To determine the best option for your dog, there are a few critical deciding factors: Do you need a muzzle that can prevent a determined dog from biting? Will your dog be wearing the muzzle outdoors in the elements? Is weight a factor for your dog? Does your dog engage in “muzzle punching” when wearing a muzzle (ramming into people with the muzzle)? Will your dog likely shove the muzzle into the dirt while trying to smell the ground? It is important to note that most muzzles are not considered “bite-proof.” This means they shouldn’t be relied on to prevent a bite from occurring. If you are muzzling as a safety precaution due to a bite risk, the best options are vinyl or wire basket muzzles. Ease of Use Like harnesses and collars, some dogs make fastening a muzzle easy, while others can make the process a challenge. This doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike the muzzle or aren’t properly conditioned to the muzzle. For example, if our boy Lucifer is overly excited about going somewhere, he sometimes gets the zoomies. He usually will stand still to let us buckle his muzzle, but it’s hard to control the zoomies when they hit! A muzzle with a quick-release buckle will be your best option if that sounds familiar. This is faster to secure than a traditional threaded buckle. Airflow One primary concern for those considering muzzling their dogs is the airflow that they will offer, and for good reason! This is especially important if your dog is going to be active while wearing the muzzle. Wire basket muzzles are often a favorite for high-energy dogs, allowing for uninterrupted airflow and making it easy for your dog to drink while wearing it. In comparison, leather and Biothane muzzles, especially those designed to prevent scavengers from being able to pick up “goodies” on their walks, generally limit airflow. Carefully consider your dog’s lifestyle and the situations where a muzzle may be needed.

Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs?

Melatonin is an important hormone, which is naturally produced in the pineal gland of the brain. It has numerous beneficial aspects, such as it can help regulate mood, sleep cycles, and reproduction. However, its production is directly stimulated by darkness, while it is inhibited by light. What does this mean? It means that both dogs and humans will produce melatonin only when it is dark outside. As soon as the dawn arrives with the light of day, melatonin production ceases. This means that many people will supplement melatonin, or use it throughout the day for various reasons. Which brings up the question - is melatonin safe for dogs? Let’s find out. Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs? Melatonin is generally considered extremely safe for dogs, and it is almost always safe to give it to them - when it is used appropriately and under the guidance of a veterinarian. While melatonin is used in humans for the above-mentioned reasons, for dogs it is usually used for treating various skin conditions, anxiety, or sleep disorders. But even with all the positive aspects, it is necessary to first heed the advice of your veterinarian, before giving melatonin to your pet. This is because the proper dosage is important. The dose of melatonin administered depends on your pet’s size, weight, and overall health condition. Generally, veterinarians recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it if necessary. Dosages typically range from 0.5 to 3 milligrams per dog, but this can vary. Mistake the dosage, and you risk a lot of side effects, like digestive upset, lethargy, and changes in mood or behavior.What is more, melatonin might not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or those taking other medications. Because of this, it is always crucial to seek professional advice before administering any supplements or medications to your pet. Ignoring this can cause a lot of harm.

Why Is My Dog Licking and Chewing His Paws?

You might think it’s gross, but your pooch certainly doesn’t – canines are known to lick themselves as a way of grooming. While your dog might lick their body thoroughly to keep it clean, sometimes, their self-grooming can be abnormal. If you notice that your pet is licking or even chewing their paws obsessively, it should raise concern. This type of behavior might indicate an underlying medical issue, so here’s what you need to know before you phone your vet.Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick and Chew Their Paws?While some licking of their paws after they get dirty can be perfectly normal, constant licking or chewing of the paws is certainly not usual behavior. There could be several reasons behind this, and it could indicate that your attention and even intervention are needed. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs lick and chew their paws.Allergies:  Allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites), and contact allergies (for example, from cleaning products or lawn chemicals), can lead to itching and discomfort in dogs. Paw licking and chewing can be a response to this itching. If you suspect that an allergy might be in question, don’t hesitate to visit your vet.Skin irritation or infection: If your dog's paws are red, swollen, or have an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a  skin infection or irritation. Bacterial or fungal infections, as well as foreign objects like splinters or thorns, can lead to serious issues down the road. Again, if you notice any of the above, it’s time to visit the vet.Dry or cracked paw pads: Dry or cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable for dogs. Licking and chewing may be their way of trying to soothe the discomfort. This happens to many dogs, and can be caused by their environment, the surface on which they walk, and many other things. Luckily, you can prevent this with paw wax that will create a barrier between the pads and the walking surface, or treat existing issues with paw butter that soothes and repairs the pads. This particular  2-in-1 paw butter and wax is a favorite of mine because it is made from all-natural ingredients and heals cracked paws in no time – while simultaneously preventing future irritation and dryness. 

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.Doggy Dementia: Symptoms and What To ExpectAs your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:Confusion and Disorientation:As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. Major Sleep Pattern Changes:Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.Loss of Interest:Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. Forgetting Housetraining:

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Why is My Rabbit Eating Poop and How Do I Stop It?

It’s a weird and uncomfortable habit, but if your rabbit is eating poop, it may not be a sign of health issues! In fact, for rabbits, eating poop may actually be a healthy decision (even if we’d prefer not to see it).In this article, we’re diving into the mystery of why rabbits eat poop, including why you may want to let your rabbit engage in this “cringey” habit. Plus, we’ll look at the warning signs that something is, indeed, off and when you should contact your veterinarian.Let’s get started…Is it Normal for a Rabbit to Eat Their Poop?Obviously, seeing your rabbit eating their own feces isn’t something any rabbit parent enjoys. If this is your first time seeing your rabbit engaging in this behavior, it may even cause serious concerns. What could possibly be so wrong with your rabbit’s system that they would feel tempted to do that? You may be surprised to learn that this is incredibly common and, in many cases, a regular part of their digestive process. By eating a specific type of poop, they ensure that they are getting (and keeping) all the nutrients that they need to support a healthy, happy life. The idea of chowing down on our own waste is disgusting to us. But for our furry friends, this is a normal part of their daily routine. Rabbit Poop vs Cecotropes To better understand the connection between poop eating and your rabbit’s health, we need to learn about the different types of rabbit waste. More specifically, we need to know about cecotropes. When we go to the bathroom, we have one type of solid waste – a material we couldn’t imagine getting near, let alone making into a meal. Rabbits, however, pass two different types of droppings. The first is fecal waste or poop. If your rabbit has a healthy, functioning digestive system, these will be small, round, dry, ball-like pellets that are light brown. This is often found in your rabbit’s litter box (if they are litter-trained) or the bottom of their cage.The second and the most important type of droppings are cecal pellets or cecotropes. These have the appearance of a small bunch of grapes with several round pellets clumped together. They are shiny, coated in mucus, and usually dark brown/mulberry color. The mucus is sticky, which could cause the cecotropes to pick up a layer of hay, wood shavings, or fur from their environment. While feces is the body’s way of discarding everything your body doesn’t need from your food, aka the ‘waste,’ cecotropes are a little different. These pellets contain partially digested foods that passed through your rabbit’s system without the nutrients being absorbed the first time. They are packed with nutrients as well as helpful bacteria and fungi that support a healthy gastrointestinal system. When you see a rabbit eating their waste, they are usually eating these cecotropes. This allows them to absorb the much-needed nutrients that would otherwise be lost.

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