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If you plan to give a pet as a christmas gift (this is after you
are sure the recipient wants a pet) give a stuffed version of the animal
with an IOU attached at Christmas. There is too much hustle and bustle
going on during
the holidays and it is not a good time to bring in a new puppy or
kitten. You must remember that they are already tramatised by leaving
their Mom and litter mates. They require a lot of attention and love
that we do not have the time to give during the holidays. Also, you
may pick out a pet for an individual and it may bond with you but not with
the individual you are choosing it for. Go with the recipient after the
holidays and let them pick out their own new furry friend. The stuffed
version of giving a pet as a gift is good for any special occasion and
applies also to adult animals as gifts.
info from Nina Beal, director and founder of the ARK
Check that no one has allergies that would make living with a pet unhealthy and unwise. Explain that the animal will require attention on a daily basis, as well as regular trips to the vet. If your friend rents, be sure that his landlord allows pets. Then, after the excitement of the holidays has died down, encourage your friend to visit an animal shelter himself. After all, there's chemistry involved in finding the right dog or cat. Some pets and people just naturally hit it off better than others. That's why it's essential that any new owner be involved in choosing his dog or cat. Remember, the pet and owner will be together for a lifetime.
Nice sentiment; bad idea....
Since the holidays are a time of giving and love, many pet owners may feel compelled to give others the chance to have the love of a pet. While the sentiment is a good one, the idea is not.
"Pets take a commitment and you can't make that commitment for someone else," explained Dr. Cory Langston, service chief of community practice at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University.
Pet ownership involves a great deal of responsibility, and there are many issues to consider. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals, adopting a pet means making a life-long commitment, which can easily be 10 to 15 years for a dog and up to 20 years for a cat.
"We see this all the time. People get a new pet and are excited about it, but then they get busy and the animal is ignored. This is a problem especially for dogs," Langston said. "They are very social and need interaction with humans. If they are ignored it can lead to behavior problems."
Young animals have a limited socialization time. During this time they will develop habits concerning their attitudes toward humans and other pets. Since the holidays are often hectic, this is not the best time to introduce a new pet into a household.
Whether a pet is social or a loner, all need proper care. Pet owners have many choices to make -- choices that require both time and money. Someone who receives a pet as a surprise gift does not have the time to make the best choices.
"There are financial issues to consider, because a pet will need shelter and care," Langston said. "We see pet owners who will spend thousands on the health of their pet and some who don't want to spend $25."
Young animals will need a series of three to five vaccinations. Even
mature pets require annual veterinary care for parasite prevention, vaccinations
to prevent diseases and screening for developing diseases. Spaying and
neutering are vital to both the animal's health and to population control.
Pets need a good diet, a comfortable shelter, and a constant supply of
clean, fresh water. Flea and tick control are
also important. All of these can be costly, and a burden for those
not financially stable.
"Also, you should think about the age of the pet, and whether you would prefer an adult vs. a juvenile. Adult pets can be much more enjoyable for some people," Langston explained. "Everybody loves a puppy or kitten, but they can be very trying at times."
The breed of a dog is also an important issue, so research the breeds, whether you are choosing a purebred or a shelter pet. Find out what mix of breeds a dog is likely to be.
"Some breeds are more intelligent and active and must have sufficient exercise," Langston said. "Long haired breeds are going to require grooming to prevent or remove mats in their coat, while shorter haired animals are less maintenance intensive."
Parents planning to add a pet to the family during the holiday season should consider these questions from the ASPCA:
* Why do you want a pet? Discuss likes and dislikes, and what everyone plans to do with the animal for the next 15 to 20 years.
* Who will do the work? No matter how mature a child is, adults will need to provide constant supervision and act as a back up for the pet's needs.
* What about all of the changes? Puppies need a lot of attention and training, and often chew anything within reach. Young animals have needle-sharp nails and milk teeth, which can unintentionally cause pain or damage.
Think before you adopt or give a pet to save all involved a lot of
time and trouble.
By Bethany Waldrop Keiper
MSU Ag Communications
Top
Christmas is a time of giving. What greater gift could you give than the gift of life? It could be for your pet, someone else's pet, or even a wild or a stray animal.
Humane shelters all over the country need volunteer help. However, this is what we often hear: "I want to help, but I can't bear to see the animals there." Here is your chance to show you really mean it.
Humane societies do a lot of jobs that aren't done at the shelters. Fund-raisers occur at all kinds of locations. Want to work at the next yard sale, silent auction or banquet? Want to go to schools and help educate youths on pet care, spaying and neutering issues, and pet overpopulation? Simply call your local shelter's representative.
info sent by Albert Buys
If Santa brings your family a new dog or cat for Christmas, make sure that pet ownership is a happy experience -- for you, your new pet, and your neighbors -- by following the guides below.
Provide sufficient nutritious and wholesome
food in clean containers to maintain your pet in good health.
Make sure that your pets have plenty of
clean water at all times.
Vaccinate your pet against rabies and other
diseases, as required by law.
License your pet with the city, as required
by city ordinance.
Spay or neuter animals, if you do not plan
to breed them.
Keep dogs and cats restrained to your property
and don’t allow them to roam.
Provide shelter and protection from the
weather.
Maintain a healthy pet with professional
veterinary care.
Pet ownership carries with it many responsibilities, including the health and well-being of animals and the rights of other residents.
info from the Fort Worth Public Health Information Office
With all the excitement that comes with the holidays, it's easy to overlook some common hazards around the house and yard that pose a threat to dogs and cats. So please, take a moment to review this winter safety checklist. The Animal Care League wants you and your pets to enjoy a happy, trouble-free holiday season!
! Frostbite. Your pet's feet and ears aren't covered by much fur, leaving these areas vulnerable to frostbite. Signs of frostbite include pale skin that is cool to the touch. After thawing, frostbitten skin may look burned. If you suspect your pet is suffering from frostbite, call your veterinarian immediately.
! Snow. Ice and snow can disguise outdoor scents and disorient your pet, increasing his chances of getting lost. That's why you should always keep your dog on a leash, even if he obeys you when walking. And we advise you to play it safe and keep your cat indoors all year round but especially whenever there's snow on the ground.
! Jagged ice and sidewalk salt. These sharp items are everywhere in the winter -- and they can damage your pet's footpads. Check her feet after every trip outside and wipe her pads with a damp towel.
! Antifreeze. Cats and dogs are unfortunately attracted to the sweet smell and taste of antifreeze, which is deadly if ingested. Keep it away from your animals, and clean up any spills immediately.
! Christmas trees. For starters, be sure that your tree is secure in its stand so that it can't accidentally be knocked over. The sharp pine needles, broken ornaments, and ornament hooks that scatter when a Christmas tree falls could injure your pet. And if you have anything other than plain water in the tree stand, keep it covered so that your dog or cat can't drink from it.
! Seasonal plants. Holly and poinsettias are poisonous, so keep them out of reach. Make sure to hang mistletoe so that the poisonous berries won't fall where your pets can find them -- and eat them.
! Holiday decorations. If swallowed, tinsel, string, and ribbon can cause choking or intestinal blockage. And keep a close eye on your pet if she wanders too close to the Christmas lights -- indoor or outdoor. If she chews on the electrical cord, she could be burned or electrocuted.
! Table scraps. An occasional treat from your holiday table may be harmless, but too much non-pet food could leave your dog or cat with an upset stomach. Turkey bones are especially dangerous for pets because they can become lodged in the throat, or splinter and injure internal organs. And don't let your dog or cat have chocolate, because it's particularly hard for them to digest.
! Be prepared! Even though we try to keep our homes safe for our pets, accidents do happen. That's why you should ask your veterinarian for an emergency number you can call should your pet require medical care when the office is closed.
info from ACL News Newsletter of the Animal Care League of Oak Park
They lick your face when you're feeling lonely. They purr contentedly
when the house is too quiet. They curl up
next to you and keep you warm. They're your pets, and don't they
deserve a holiday reward for being there for you?
Some pet owners think they do. Wayne Wanta, an associate professor in the School of Communication, said on Christmas his pets receive gifts along with the rest of the family. The Wanta family gives doggie treats and catnip to their dog and two cats on Christmas Day. Each pet has a stocking that is hung over the fireplace.
"The dog periodically checks to make sure his stocking is still full," Wanta said. "They know they are going to get presents as well as we."
On Christmas morning, he said, the family's stockings are laid out on the floor. "Periodically, between presents, we crack open a doggie treat or a catnip," Wanta said.
Wanta said his daughter, who takes care of the cats, believes Santa Claus brings presents for the pets along with gifts for the family. "She feels the pets are part of the family and deserve gifts, too," he explained.
Senior Spanish major Jennifer Schiele's family cat receives similar treatment. He has a small stocking with his name painted on it that hangs with the rest of the family's, and on Christmas he receives small cat toys. But, she said, the best pet present is discarded wrapping paper. "He loves to hide in it and chew on it," she said.
Pet stores have picked up on the demand for holiday pet gifts. Scamp's, located at Valley River Center, offers an array of seasonal pet supplies.
"We have a whole display up front for pets for the holidays," said Nicholas, an employee at Scamps who declined to give his last name. "We sell stockings stuffed with chew toys for dogs and cat toys for cats. We also have little antlers for dogs' heads so you can make them look like reindeer." Nicholas said dogs, cats and small animals seem to be the most common pet gift recipients during the holidays. However, this is not always the case.
"One person came in who was looking for new aquarium stuff for their goldfish," he said.
Nicholas said, however, that sales do not noticeably increase during the holiday season. "It's pretty much the same," he said. "We have a lot of the same people in here, we just have different items out that remind them [of the holidays]."
Some pet stores sell novelty items for the holidays. Wanta said his cats have small, paw-shaped stockings that hang over the fireplace. Sweaters bearing seasonal embroidery and holiday pet hats are a just few others that are available.
By Nicole Krueger, Oregon Daily Emerald
Take care with holiday decorations, especially with young dogs who will chew almost anything. Common yuletide plants, including poinsettias, mistletoe and holly berries, can be poisonous. Tinsel and small ornaments may cause choking or severe intestinal problems if eaten. Animals may be electrocuted if they chew on lighting or extension cords. Dogs and especially cats may enjoy playing in discarded wrapping paper, but remove ribbons first. There are few veterinarians who haven't removed ribbons or tinsel from the intestines of a very sick cat in the post-Christmas period.
Keep boxes of chocolates out of harm's way. Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, who have been known to get into unopened wrapped boxes of chocolates under the tree and become quite ill. Don't feed holiday leftovers to your pets. Poultry bones can splinter and changes of diet can cause vomiting and diarrhea, especially in older dogs.
Imagine the excitement of a tree in the house in the middle of winter, especially a tree festooned with dangling items! The temptation to play is often too great for cats in particular to resist. To avoid a mishap, provide a wide flat base for the tree and consider supplementing this support with fishing line. Place only nonbreakable items within your cat's reach.
Finally, be sure to take time to have fun with your pet over the holidays. Let your dog inspire you to go for extra walks and you will both feel better!
Dr. Alice Crook heads the Animal Welfare Unit at Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, and is on the animal welfare committee of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.
In many parts of the country, winter is a season of bitter cold and numbing wetness. Help your pets remain happy and healthy during the colder months.
Do not leave dogs outdoors when the temperature drops. Most dogs, and all cats, are safer indoors, except when taken out for exercise. Regardless of the season, shorthaired, very young, or old dogs and all cats should never be left outside without supervision. Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks.
No matter what the temperature, windchill can threaten a pet’s life. A dog or cat is happiest and healthiest when kept indoors. If your dog is an outdoor dog, however, he/she must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably but small enough to hold in his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet’s water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your pet’s tongue can stick and freeze to metal.
Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car’s hood to scare them away before starting your engine.
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach. Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or your family.
Probably the best prescription for winter’s woes is to keep your
dog or cat inside with you and your family. The happiest dogs are those
who are taken out frequently for walks and exercise but kept inside the
rest of the time. Dogs and cats are social animals who crave human companionship.
Your animal companions deserve to live
indoors with you and your family.
info from The Humane Society of the United States
Winter can be hard on your four-footed friends. Don’t assume that just because they have fur they can sit outside in the winter. Most of them can’t.
Water. Active dogs need as much water, or even more, in the winter than they do in the summer. Make sure that outside water supplies do not freeze. De-icers are available from pet supply catalogs, and run from $15.00 to $40.00. You can also purchase them from hardware stores.
Antifreeze. Keep your pet away from antifreeze. Poisoning takes only a couple of licks. Antifreeze may lurk in your garage on your driveway.
Road Salt. Keep your pet away from road salt. This chemical compound can cause painful burns to an animal's feet, tongue, and mouth. Wash it off immediately. Long-haired dogs can track in the chemicals on their body hair.
Snow. Don't let your dog wander away in the snow. Scent, sound, and landmarks may become confusing, making it quite easy for dogs to become lost.
Keeping Warm . . .
During the winter, dog sweaters are great for keeping long hair clean, dry, and away of chemicals. They are also wonderfully warm and cozy. Also:
Keep beds and crates in a warm, draft-free area of the house.
Avoid frostbite by limiting the time your pet plays outside. Remove snow and ice immediately from your pet's paws, nose, and body. If skin is red and dry, apply an emollient to soothe it. If skin is white, cold, and painful to the touch, contact your veterinarian immediately. Frostbitten areas require slow thawing by frequently applying warm, moist towels.
. . . but not too warm.
Hot water bottles are the safest choice for contact heating.
Winter burns are common. Don't let your pet spend too much time in front of the fire. Even when heating pads set on low, they can burn your pet. Try to keep your pet away from the hot air that comes out of heating ducts. The hot, dry air often causes dry, flaky, itchy skin and dry nasal passages. Never leave your pet alone with electric or kerosene/propane space heaters. An accidental bump can result in terrible burns and/or a fire.
Outside dog houses. The most preferable place for your dog to be is inside with you, However, if he or she has to be outside, follow these suggestions:
Supply a well-insulated dog house that isn't so big that it lets out all of the dog's body heat. If a dog house has a wide open door, it won't keep out the wind. Choose the type of dog house that has a door on the side rather than in the front. Elevate the dog house slightly off the ground to prevent moisture from accumulating. Change the bedding regularly to keep it clean and dry.
Use nonmetal water bowls to prevent wet tongues from sticking. Get a warming device for the water bowl, and check it regularly to make sure it's working.
If your dog is an outdoor dog, and is old, arthritic, or sickly, do him or her the biggest favor and invite the dog in for the winter.
Winter Diet. Check with your veterinarian about your pet's diet. Active dogs and outdoor dogs may require a more calorie-dense food to help them fight the elements.
Mosqitoes? In many places, mosquitoes are present even in the winter. Be sure to continue your pet's heartworm medicine if he or she is already on it, and if not, have your pet tested.
By Lori S. Mohr, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Understanding Cat Behavior is Key for Would-Be Cat Owners
Before bringing a kitty home, prospective adopters should first acquire a solid understanding of the feline temperament and behavior. According to the ASPCA, some commonly held beliefs about cats are not always true and may be based on myths or outdated facts that have the potential to jeopardize the budding relationship between a cat and his new owner.
Consequently, The ASPCA is looking to educate the public on the truth
behind popular cat myths to help them become more responsible cat “parents.”
The ASPCA has launched a national publicity campaign to raise public
awareness on the important role that education can play in creating a lifelong
bond between pet and pet owner.
Following are some popular shelter cat myths:
Myth: Cats Misbehave out of Spite
Truth: Cats are smart, but they can’t ponder the future or plot
revenge. When problems occur, it is usually due to medical reasons (bladder
infections for litter box problems) or stress. Changes in residence, a
schedule, or lack of owner attention are some prime reasons for behavior
problems. If your trained kitty is suddenly leaving you a litter box “present”
in your bed, he or she is telling you the problem. It is up to you to listen.
Myth: Cats are Dangerous to Babies
Truth: Cats do not steal the breath of babies! However, cats
are often fascinated with the smells and sounds babies’ make and may want
to investigate. Some cats may be frightened of the noise or exhibit
behavior problems if deprived of your attention. Supervised interactions
coupled with time, patience, and extra affection for your pet can begin
your cat and child on a lifelong friendship.
Myth: Cats aren’t Affectionate or Social
Truth: Cats are loving, affectionate animals. People don’t
always see this because cats display their affection in subtle ways. A
nose touch, a slow eye blink or a gentle leg rub are not be as obvious
as the face-lick of a dog but it is just as sincere and deliberate. Learn
to appreciate your feline’s unique qualities and you will be rewarded.
Myth: Cats Can Take Care of Themselves
Truth: The suffering of homeless cats tells the whole story.
Eating scraps from garbage bins, shivering for warmth in dark alleyways
and fighting for survival is hardly living the good life. It’s a
thin line that separates stray from cherished pet and that line is responsible
pet ownership, where food, fresh water, a clean litter box and love
are provided daily and identification and veterinary care is a requirement.
Myth: Only Kittens Can Grow to Become Part of your Family
Truth: Grown cats are highly adaptable animals. With planning, patience,
and love, adult cats can make wonderful companion animals and are
often a better choice for families with younger children. Shelters are
an excellent place to find a loving feline whose life you’ll also be saving.
The ASPCA asks prospective pet owners to remember other myths that
cause problems between cats and their owners, such as allergies and labeling
cats as “low maintenance” or “not trainable.” Mild to moderate allergy
problems can often be controlled through medication and a willingness
to try various methods (such as weekly baths) in order to keep the
allergy threshold low. Cats can be trained if you know how (like anything
else) and there
is little question that they need daily love, care and a stimulating
environment to be happy.
People interested in adopting an adult cat or kitten are encouraged to visit Petfinder.org (www.Petfinder.org), the Internet’s largest searchable database for homeless pets. With approximately 1,000 community shelters posting available animals on the site, individuals and families can use the site’s “browse” function and search by zip code, age, size or breed, to view photos and descriptions of pets that best match their needs and the animal’s.
info from the ASPCA, www.aspca.org
So, you're thinking of getting a new puppy? Before you bring home
a new pet there are several things to consider. Remember that you need
to puppy-proof your home. Also, before you select your new puppy, give
plenty of thought to the type of dog you want. While it can be very tempting
to chose a puppy based on appearance, remember that
various dog breeds have quite different personalities and
require varying levels of care. There is information available from many
sources on selecting a puppy. You can complete Waltham's Select-a-Dog or
Purina's Breed Selector to see which breeds fit your personality and lifestyle.
If you don't already have a veterinarian, you should select one that
provides extended visits for clients with new puppies. A veterinarian that
takes extra time to discuss with you puppy care, nutrition, housebreaking,
and all the other challenges that new puppies bring will most likely be
a veterinarian who will always take time to answer
your questions throughout the life of your dog.
Don't pick up your new puppy too soon. Puppies need to stay with their mothers and littermates until they're 7 - 9 weeks of age and fully weaned. Until this time, they need the care of the bitch and also the social interaction to minimize the chances for behavior problems later.
Unless a puppy is sick or not growing normally, they need to make their first visit to the veterinarian at 6 - 8 weeks of age. Puppies are then seen every 3 - 4 weeks until they are at least 16 weeks of age. Although this schedule is dictated by the need to give a series of vaccines (see below), it also allows for necessary screening for parasites and adjustment of medications appropriate for changes in body weight for growing puppies. A good preventative health care plan for puppies will include:
puppy health record; general physical examinations; body weights recorded; stool sample check for internal parasites; check for external parasites (fleas, mites, ticks) and dermatophytes (ringworm); preventative medication for heartworm disease; medication for roundworms and hookworms; vaccination series for distemper, adenovirus, infectious canine hepatitis, canine parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and canine coronavirus (usually given as a combination vaccine); vaccination for rabies; vaccination for Bordetella (kennel cough) if indicated; discussions on nutrition, grooming, spay or neuter, and behavior.
Puppies are given a series of vaccinations for prevention of common
infectious diseases. This series is usually started at 6 - 8 weeks of age
and continued every 3 - 4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age. Puppies
need to have this series of vaccinations. It is impossible to predict when
any given puppy will lose the immune proteins
(antibodies) it received from the bitch's milk, and when its own
immune system is mature enough to take over. This happens sometime
between 6 - 15 weeks of age, for most puppies.
Complete veterinary care during puppyhood, is one of the essential elements of a healthy and happy life for your dog. Enjoy your new puppy!
Take rich foods, shining tinsel, laughing guests and fragrant plants, mix with curious pets, and you have a recipe for holiday distress. Give your pets special consideration as you make your holiday plans.
According to Dr. Cory Langston, service chief of community practice at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University, an increase in activities and guests in the home can be very stressful for a pet, depending on the animal's disposition.
"Don't force your pets to socialize if they are afraid or stressed. Don't force them to socialize with children," Langston said. "If you want to introduce children to your pets, do it correctly. Supervise the process, and begin by letting the pet smell the child's hand. Since young children lack the muscle coordination to make smooth movements, show them how to pet an animal gently."
Pets need their own space and time with you to reassure them during the holidays.
"Give your pets a quiet room to hide in during activities. Some animals may even be more comfortable if you board them during these times. It all depends on the disposition of your pets," Langston explained.
Sharing holiday meals and treats with your pets can cause more than a pain in the stomach.
"During the holidays we see a lot of dietary indiscretion. People tend to give pets a lot of leftovers. Such rapid changes in diet often cause problems such as vomiting or diarrhea,” Langston said. “Be especially careful of high fat foods, which can lead to more serious health problems such as pancreatitis."
Chocolate is a staple in many households year-round, but is especially abundant during the holidays.
While Langston said a chocolate kiss would not likely be fatal, large amounts of chocolate, especially baker's chocolate, could cause serious health problems including seizures and heart problems.
While you are decking the halls, remember that many traditional holiday items can be a toxic temptation for your pets.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, artificial snow is poisonous, Christmas ornament fragments can perforate the stomach and frayed light cords can shock or burn your pet.
"A common misconception is that poinsettias are deadly to pets. While the plants will cause some vomiting and diarrhea if your pet consumes them, it is typically not a life-threatening situation," Langston explained. "Toxic plants include Christmas rose, holly leaves and berries, and mistletoe leaves and especially the berries."
Long, stringy items present a great danger to pets, and these abound during the holidays. Ribbons and strings around gifts can be a great temptation to cats, and shimmering tinsel can be irresistible.
"While small, round objects may pass through the animal's GI system, long strings can lodge and cause the intestine to spasm," Langston said. "These often will not pass through and have to be surgically removed."
If you see your pet with a string or ribbon in its mouth, apply gentle traction to remove as much of it as you can, and watch the animals for signs of distress.
"If your pet eats a toxic plant, induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide at the rate of one teaspoon orally per 10 pounds of animal weight. Do not induce vomiting if the pet is unconscious, has ingested a petroleum distillate or a caustic -- such as a battery," Langston said. "I've seen many puppies brought in as emergency cases because they had chewed or swallowed a battery."
Liquid potpourri may bring a pleasant scent to your home, but it can cause many problems for cats. Cats are the most susceptible to this kind of poisoning, according to the Poison Control Center of the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Cats exposed to the fragrant liquids often need extensive treatment and several days of hospitalization.
The liquids are usually made of essential oils and cationic detergents, and both of these are toxic to cats. Since many potpourri products do not have a list of ingredients, the poison control center advised consumers to assume any liquid potpourri includes both of these.
Contact your veterinarian for more information or if you suspect your pet has come into contact with a toxin.
By Bethany Waldrop Keiper
MSU Ag Communications
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