Adventure Paws Training

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Adventure Paws Training

Offering force-free, reward based one-to-one dog and puppy training in your own home.
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Adventure Paws Training is a South and South West London based dog and puppy training service. We offer reward-based dog training, puppy classes, home training consultations and obedience training.

30/08/2024

With school starting back, it may be tempting to bring your puppy along on the school run, but here’s why that’s not a great idea.

The hustle and bustle of a busy school environment can be overwhelming for a puppy. The noise, crowds, and chaotic energy can create confusion and stress, which is far from the positive socialisation experiences your puppy needs.

Instead, focus on calm, controlled environments where your puppy can build confidence and have positive interactions at their own pace. Remember, socialisation isn’t about exposing your puppy to everything all at once—it’s about creating positive, manageable experiences that help them grow into well-adjusted dogs.

So, while the school run might seem like a fun outing, it’s best to leave your puppy at home where they can feel safe and secure. Let’s set our pups up for success! Share this to raise awareness.

29/08/2024

Throwing it back to one of my puppy classes in 2017! 🐾

It's mad to think that I’ve been training dogs around Wimbledon since 2013—11 whole years!

It’s been an incredible journey, helping so many dogs (and their humans) build strong, positive relationships. From those early days to now, the joy of seeing a happy dog never gets old.

Here’s to many more years of wagging tails, playful pups, and lifelong learning! Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this amazing journey.

26/08/2024

How lucky are we that National Dog Day falls on a bank holiday this year? 🎉🐾

It’s the perfect excuse to spend the entire day having fun with our best friends! Whether it’s a long, leisurely walk, a play session in the garden, or simply snuggling up on the sofa, let’s make the most of this special day dedicated to our dogs.

Happy National Dog Day to all the amazing dogs out there! How are you spending the day with your dog? Share your plans in the comments below!

23/08/2024

Bank holiday weekend is the perfect time to treat your dog or puppy to a decompression walk! 🐾

This isn’t just any walk—it’s an opportunity to explore somewhere a little further afield, in a new and enriching environment. Whether it's a wooded area, a new nature reserve, or a quiet countryside trail, taking your dog to an unfamiliar spot can make all the difference.

Even if your dog is used to walking in wooded spaces, visiting a different location will provide them with new sights, sounds, and, most importantly, smells. Let them slow down, take their time, and truly enjoy a "sniffari." Sniffing is one of the most enriching activities for dogs, allowing them to engage their most powerful sense—their nose!

This simple yet fulfilling activity could be the best bank holiday adventure you can give your dog. And if the weather’s nice, why not set up a paddling pool at home afterwards for some extra fun?

Take the time to unwind and let your dog enjoy some quality, sensory-rich experiences this weekend. Happy exploring!

16/08/2024

Does body language change with age? 🐾

While the signals themselves—like panting, whale eye, and a relaxed tail—are innate and consistent throughout a dog’s life, how these signals are expressed can evolve as your dog grows.

Both puppies and adult dogs use the same signals to communicate their feelings, but there are some differences to note.

Puppies, when they’re young and still building confidence, may be more appeasing and tolerate things that an older, more confident dog might not.

They might quickly show fear signals, such as exposing their belly to strangers or licking the mouth of an older dog during greetings.

Our role as guardians is to help boost their confidence by supporting them during these early stages, so they grow up to greet the world with resilience and assurance.

Genetics also play a crucial role in a dog’s temperament.

Puppies born to anxious parents may inherit some of those traits, making it even more important to approach their upbringing with cautious and considered habituation and socialisation.

Did you notice your dogs body language change as they got older? Tell me below! 👇

12/08/2024

It's a common misconception that a wagging tail always signifies a happy dog. In reality, dogs use their tails to communicate many things. Fundamentally wagging disseminates scent, so by considering nuances such as the carriage of the tail and speed of wags you can begin to more accurately interpret what your dog may be feeling. 🐾

High, Stiff Wag: There’s a serious amount of scent dissemination with this kind of wag. This often indicates alertness but also signals a high level of arousal. Pay attention to the context and other body language cues to make sure this doesn’t tip over into aggression in an overwhelming context for your dog.

Low, Slight or Slow Wag: A tail held low and wagging slowly can suggest anxiety, submission, or uncertainty. Your dog might be feeling cautious or uneasy in their environment.

Broad, Sweeping Wag: Typically, this indicates a friendly and relaxed dog. When accompanied by a relaxed body and other positive signals, it usually means your dog is happy to see you.

Rapid Wagging with Tension: If your dog’s tail is wagging quickly but their body is tense, it could mean they are feeling agitated or overstimulated. Be cautious and look for other signs of stress.

Circular Tail Wag: Sometimes called a “helicopter tail,” this is usually a sign of extreme happiness and excitement, often seen when your dog greets a favourite person.

Understanding your dog’s tail wags in conjunction with other body language cues is key to interpreting their emotions accurately. Observe their ears, eyes, mouth, and overall posture to get a fuller picture of how they are feeling.

Have you noticed different types of tail wags from your dog?

07/08/2024

I’m taking a short break to look after a poorly little one. 💚

I appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.

It’s important to remember that it’s okay to be human and take time for family when needed.

Thank you for your support, and I’ll be back soon with more updates and content. 🐾

-Lottie x

05/08/2024

Today is Work Like A Dog Day, but I want to know if your dog had a human job, what would it be? Let me know below! 👇

04/08/2024

Understanding your dog’s body language is key to effective communication and ensuring their well-being. 🐾

Dogs can’t communicate verbally to tell us what they’re feeling, but we can learn to read their non-verbal signals. From the shape of their ears and tail carriage to the tightness of their facial muscles and tail wags, every movement provides insight into their emotional state.

When you can read these signs, you’ll know whether your dog is enjoying an interaction, feeling stressed, or needs help. Recognising these subtle cues can help you remove them from uncomfortable situations or provide the right support through practiced training exercises.

That’s why over the next few weeks, I will be looking at various parts of dog body language in posts to help you learn what to look out for. Make sure you follow so you don’t miss this!

02/08/2024

Muzzle training is an essential skill for all dogs, ensuring their safety and comfort in various situations. We’d love to hear from you!

Have you muzzle trained your dog? What was your experience like? Share your tips and success stories in the comments below. Let's help each other create positive and stress-free muzzle training experiences for our dogs!

29/07/2024

Muzzle training is a process that requires time, patience, and the use of positive methods . It's never a good idea to simply put a muzzle on your dog without proper preparation. Dogs need to feel comfortable and confident with each stage of the training.

I guide my clients through various stages to gradually build their dog's confidence. One of the initial steps includes encouraging dogs to put their face into a tub or jar, creating positive associations before introducing the muzzle. Watch out for the reel coming later this week with Zula who has been working with me on muzzle training.

Rushing the process can lead to fear and anxiety, making it harder for your dog to accept the muzzle. Take the time to ensure your dog is comfortable at each stage, and remember, patience is key.

If you need help with muzzle training, feel free to reach out. Having a professional to help coach you through the steps can ensure success if you have never muzzle trained before. 🐾💚

25/07/2024

As my incredible week at Paignton Zoo comes to an end, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this experience unforgettable. 🐒🐔🐭

A massive thank you to Sam, Anne, Nadia and all the keepers at Paignton Zoo for allowing us unprecedented access and the privilege of helping train some of their beloved animals. Working with you has been an eye-opening experience, showing me the depth of care and dedication you have for these animals.

Zoos can be ethically complex, and I've had my own thoughts on the matter. However, spending another week with you has made one thing abundantly clear: the staff at Paignton Zoo are committed to doing incredible things for the animals in their care. The deep attachment they have to each individual animal and their extensive knowledge of both the species and individual characters is truly inspiring.

I was honoured to work alongside 17 other dog trainers, harnessing this knowledge and designing training plans under the expert guidance of Jo Mason and Jim Mackie from Educating Animals. Their leadership and insights were invaluable, and I am grateful for their mentorship.

The skills and knowledge I’ve gained here are transferable and will enhance my dog training practice. I can’t wait to bring these insights back to my clients and continue to promote the importance of choice and trust in training.

Thank you, Paignton Zoo, for this incredible opportunity. It has been a privilege to contribute, even in small ways, to the care of your amazing animals! ☺️

Educating Animals

18/07/2024

Day 2 at the zoo, and I’ve been working with George the Lemur! 😀

There’s a crucial conversation that takes place between any trainer and the animal, centred on allowing the animal choice and autonomy in its life. In this instance, it’s about George choosing to interact with me and participate in the necessary processes to ensure his safety, health, and the best possible life in this environment.

When working with George, I use a clicker to mark precise behaviours that I want to capture or shape. What you can’t see in the images and videos is the ongoing conversation between us. If George indicates he's uncomfortable, I stop and back off, respecting his choice. This respect for his autonomy is key in all our interactions.

This principle applies to all the animals I’m working with here, from lemurs to meerkats and baboons. Each day, I learn so much from these experiences. Working with different species, I gain insights that I can bring back to my dog training practice. This non-verbal conversation through body language and choice is something I can share with my clients to help them communicate better with their dogs.

Stay tuned for some videos of George in action over the coming days! 📹

15/07/2024

Whatever your beliefs about zoos and the ethics surrounding them, one thing remains crucial: the welfare of animals in our care. This is where cooperative care comes into play.

You might be wondering, "What is a dog trainer doing at a zoo?" As a dog trainer, I focus on building trust and understanding between humans and animals. These principles are universally applicable, whether working with dogs or big cats. The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) now mandates that all training in zoos must directly benefit the animals' welfare. This means any training, even those that might be used in public displays, is first and foremost designed to aid the animal in some way. For example, training a bird to perch isn’t just for show – it’s primarily to ensure they can be examined or weighed with minimal stress.

Yesterday, I witnessed an incredible example of this with the big cats. A keeper shared how cooperative care allows for medical procedures to be performed with the animal's consent, significantly reducing their stress. One poignant story involved an elderly tiger who needed to be put to sleep. Instead of being darted, which would have caused immense stress, the tiger was able to come to the fence and be euthanised peacefully, thanks to the trust built through cooperative care. Watching the keeper speak with tears in her eyes was a powerful reminder of the respect and care our animals deserve.

Stay tuned as I share more insights and stories throughout this week I am spending at the zoo.

Together, we can raise the welfare standards for all animals in our care. 🥰

Educating Animals

14/07/2024

Understanding your dog's body language is key to working out their level of comfort with an interaction. Swipe through to learn the signs that your dog may not enjoy being touched. Respect their signals and help them feel safe and secure!

Share this to raise awareness. 🙏

11/07/2024

Understanding where your dog likes to be touched is crucial for building trust and ensuring their comfort. 🥰

This graphic offers a general guide to some areas dogs typically enjoy being petted. Remember, every dog is unique, so always pay attention to their body language and preferences.

Many dogs enjoy being petted on their shoulders and the base of their tail (rump). The upper thighs are also a common sweet spot. For older, non-bitey dogs, the chest can be a comforting area to touch. Some dogs, particularly when they're very comfortable with a favourite person, might even enjoy a gentle chin scratch.🐾

However, it's important to note that these are just general preferences. Always approach your dog calmly and respect their signals. If they pull away, give them some space. By tuning into your dog's body language, you can learn what they truly enjoy, making physical touch a positive experience for both of you.

Have you discovered a particular spot your dog loves? Share your experiences in the comments below and help others understand their dogs better!

09/07/2024

This month, we’re focusing on consensual handling and cooperative care, and I’d like to reshare Conker’s story to highlight its importance.

When I first met Conker, a tiny Chihuahua puppy, he was too nervous to approach me. His owner, a first-time dog parent, was worried about how Conker reacted to being picked up and routine handling like collar and harness fittings. This opened up a vital conversation about understanding and respecting a pet’s comfort with touch.

We worked on desensitising Conker to his collar and teaching him to signal when he’s ready to be lifted by using a special box that makes him feel secure. His owner has been amazing at respecting Conker’s space and teaching him to trust human hands at his own pace.

Remember, not all dogs, especially the little ones, enjoy being constantly handled. It's crucial to respect their boundaries and build their confidence gradually. If you know someone who could benefit from this approach, share this post with them!

03/07/2024

My topic for the month is Consensual Handling & Cooperative Care - it’s a big topic but I am so passionate about it, it’s essential for your dog to have the respect they deserve and more than just cope with human handling, but actually enjoy it and have the choice to accept it.

Stay tuned as I explore these concepts in-depth, sharing tips and techniques to help you implement them with your dog! 🐾

02/07/2024

Our small, friendly classes are a fantastic way to teach your puppy the basic obedience and broad range of life-skills that will give them great foundations. Using fun, effective and positive training methods you will build a lasting relationship based upon the ability to communicate with each other successfully.

👉 2 Spaces Left!
👉 Six Week Course
👉 Starts 31st July at 8:15pm
👉 Merton Park Baptist Church, Bushey Road, SW20 8TE

Book your space here: https://www.adventurepawstraining.co.uk/puppy-classes

30/06/2024

July starts tomorrow! What are you hoping to achieve this month with your dog?

27/06/2024

“I may have given up without you.” 🥹

These were the words of El in her testimonial for my training services with her and Amelia. I am still so glad I was able to help them both to be where they are today.

Thank you so much again for your kind words! 🙏

23/06/2024

If you’re a new puppy parent, my Super Puppy Programme offers a structured way to ensure your puppy grows into a happy and healthy dog. Here’s what makes this programme so beneficial:

Over the course of approximately 7 weeks and 5 hour-long face-to-face sessions, I develop a tailored training plan that suits the specific needs of your lifestyle and your individual puppy. Conducted in your home, the local area, and Wimbledon Common, this training prepares both you and your puppy to handle everyday situations with ease.

The programme includes between-session practices to enhance learning continuity, ensuring you make steady progress each week.

Each participant receives a pack filled with essential tools and treats to facilitate effective and enjoyable training sessions.

Understanding that every puppy is unique, I tailor the training to fit the specific personality and lifestyle needs of your dog. My experience training numerous puppies in Wimbledon allows me to provide a completely tailored/personalised approach for optimal results.

You’ll have access to ongoing support via WhatsApp for the duration of your programme, allowing you to reach out with any questions during the programme, ensuring you never feel alone in your training journey and to troubleshoot any issues.

I’ll assess how well your puppy is adapting to life in the city and their social skills development, my comprehensive guide will help you understand and effectively communicate with your puppy, enhancing your mutual understanding.

The Super Puppy Programme is way more than training; it’s about building a strong, understanding relationship with your puppy. If you’re in Wimbledon and want to ensure your puppy has the best start in life, this programme is for you. Know someone who could benefit from structured puppy training? Tag them here or share this post!

20/06/2024

As we start to enjoy the warmer weather and lovely walks, it’s crucial to remember that it’s also grass seed season. These seemingly harmless seeds can pose a significant risk to your dogs. Here are three essential tips to help you combat the risks during this season:

- After each walk, take a few minutes to thoroughly check your dog’s fur, especially around the ears, between the paws, and under the belly. Grass seeds can easily get lodged in these areas and cause irritation or infection.

- Keep your dog’s fur trimmed (if applicable) and well-groomed. Shorter fur helps minimise the chances of seeds clinging and embedding. Pay extra attention to areas where grass seeds are more likely to get stuck.

Whenever possible, try to steer clear of walking through tall grassy areas where grass seeds are prevalent. Opt for clear paths or well-maintained lawns during this season around Wimbledon to reduce exposure.

Taking these precautions can help protect your dog from the discomforts and potential dangers of grass seeds. Stay vigilant and keep your walks safe and enjoyable! Have any more tips for dealing with grass seed season? Share them in the comments below! 🌿🐾

19/06/2024

Time for a testimonial!

Today, I'm throwing it back to Petra & Frieda's review- I love it when you can really see a puppy come on leaps and bounds, you can really see the effort being made. This really was the case with Frieda- Petra put in so much work with her and it definitely paid off.

I have a few spaces available on my "Super Puppy" 1-2-1 Training Programme, please contact me for details and availability.

18/06/2024

Just like young children, puppies need mental stimulation to help their brains develop to their fullest potential. Engaging in activities that challenge their minds is crucial for their overall growth and well-being. Here’s why mental stimulation should be a part of your puppy's daily routine:

Regular mental stimulation helps to sharpen cognitive functions, making it easier for puppies to learn cues and adapt to new situations.

Boredom can lead to destructive behaviours such as chewing, barking, and digging. Keeping their minds active not only entertains them but also channels these natural but in appropriate behaviours positively.

When you engage in mentally stimulating activities with your puppy, it enhances your relationship. Training sessions, puzzle toys, or simple games like hide and seek can strengthen your connection.

Mental stimulation can help prevent anxiety and depression in dogs by keeping their mind engaged and satisfied.

Activities that require thinking and problem-solving, like puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys, encourage your puppy to tackle challenges and can increase their ability to handle stress.

Incorporating mental exercises into your puppy's routine is as simple as introducing new toys, teaching new tricks, or even changing your walking routes for new smells and sights. Every little bit of mental challenge is a step towards raising a happy and healthy dog.

14/06/2024

Looking for a fun and engaging way to keep your puppy entertained? Try a sniffari—an adventurous treat hunt scattered throughout your garden or home! Sniffaris are not just an enjoyable activity; they are a fantastic way to provide your pup with essential mental stimulation and critically sniffing helps reduce cortisol which makes for a calmer more relaxed and cognitive pooch. 🥰

Every breed, regardless of size or energy level, benefits greatly from mental exercises. Sniffaris encourage natural foraging behaviors and engage your puppy’s keen sense of smell, helping to tire them out mentally. This kind of stimulation is just as important as physical exercise and plays a vital role in preventing boredom and associated behavioural issues.

Set up your sniffari by hiding some treats around your space, then play the game with your pup to help them find each morsel. Watch your pup’s delight as they discover each hidden gem. It’s a simple yet effective way to enrich their daily routine and strengthen your bond. Have you ever tried a sniffari with your dog? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! 🐕

10/06/2024

It's a common myth that summer isn't a good time for puppy training, with the kids off school and family holidays. But just like us, our puppies thrive on consistency and routine, no matter the season! Summer offers unique opportunities for socialisation and training in new environments, from parks to serene beach visits.

Keeping up with regular training sessions ensures your puppy continues to learn and grow, maintaining those important habits you've both worked so hard to establish.

Don’t let the laid-back summer vibe disrupt your training goals. Instead, use this vibrant season to reinforce lessons and explore new challenges together. Have you found summer to be a great time for training your pup?

Share your summer training stories below! 🐶

05/06/2024

Meet Zula, a delightful Mini Schnauzer who first joined my Super Puppy Training programme as a tiny pup. From the start, Zula took to crate training beautifully, finding comfort and security in her cosy crate. Her owner found the crate so effective that Zula happily slept in it every night. 🥰

Although Zula's owner stopped using the crate when she was around 11 months old, circumstances have now made it necessary to reintroduce it. To ensure Zula is completely comfortable, we've returned to basics. By offering plenty of choice and enrichment from the crate, Zula is now reacquainting herself with her old sleeping spot. She’s happily spending longer periods inside with the door closed, showing us that patience and positive reinforcement truly pay off. 🐾

Our focus is on making sure Zula is 100% comfortable, allowing her to progress at her own pace to ensure she feels completely happy and secure in her crate once again. We're proud of Zula's progress and her owner's commitment to her well-being!

Give her a like for being so awesome!

04/06/2024

In celebration of our short-legged, big-hearted friends, here are three uncommon facts about Corgis that you might not know:

Originally bred in Wales, Corgis are one of the oldest herding breeds. Their low stature allows them to nip at the heels of cattle and quickly duck to avoid kicks. Despite their size, they’re agile and hardworking.

Queen Elizabeth II was famous for her love of Corgis, having owned over 30 of them during her reign. The royal connection has significantly boosted the breed's popularity worldwide.

Corgis have a surprisingly loud and distinctive bark for their size. This trait made them excellent watchdogs on farms, alerting farmers to any unusual activity.

Celebrate these wonderful dogs by tagging a Corgi lover below! 👇

02/06/2024

June is here! Did you know that this month is National Microchipping Month?

We all know that it’s important for your dog to be microchipped, but what does this mean and how does it help?

Swipe through my carousel to find out! 👉

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Monday	09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	09:00 - 17:00
Thursday	09:00 - 17:00
Friday	09:00 - 17:00
Saturday	09:00 - 17:00

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+447725833871

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http://www.adventurepawstraining.co.uk/

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Videos

Whale eye is often mistaken for a “guilty” look, but it’s actually a clear signal of uncertainty, stress, or anxiety in your dog. 🐾Take, for example, a puppy that flips onto its back in front of a stranger. You might notice the whites of their eyes showing—this is a classic whale eye. It’s a sign that the puppy is feeling overwhelmed and fearful of the unfamiliar person looming over them.Whale eye is not a signal to ignore. When you see it, your dog is telling you they’re uncomfortable and need your help. Whether it’s taking the pressure off, removing them from the situation, or providing a safe space, it’s important to act to help your dog feel secure.Remember, those whites of the eyes are a clear call for you to step in and support your dog.#adventurepawstraining #whaleeye #dogbodylanguage

Muzzle Training With Zula 🐾2 really important things to note with muzzle training-1. It’s important to keep it fun, just like we did in this reel!2. Letting your dog decide whilst playing this game is the aim. We are not forcing them in.I feel that it’s really important we break the stigma around muzzles, it doesn’t mean a dog is “bad”, there are many factors as to why a dog is muzzle trained, and I will be talking about this in more detail soon!Is your dog muzzle trained?#adventurepawstraining #muzzletraining #muzzle #muzzleup #schnauzer #miniatureschnauzer

Day 5 at the zoo, and I had the unique experience of chicken training! 🐔Practising the mechanics of reinforcement and timing is crucial for clear communication with the animals we live with. It’s essential that they understand what we’re asking of them. If we’re not clear, how can they be expected to understand and learn?Luckily, dogs are very forgiving, which might be why we coexist so successfully despite the mixed signals we often give them. But today, it was all about Nutty the chicken. Training Nutty to peck onto the 7 of diamonds was the goal. Here, I am marking closer increments towards the card.I have to admit, by this point in the training, I was exhausted. As trainers, it’s important to recognise that if our timing is off, we can confuse the learner. It’s a reminder to always train when we’re in the right head space to ensure we’re giving our best and clearest signals.#adventurepawstraining #chickentraining

It’s a common misconception that all dogs actually enjoy being cuddled- watch my latest reel to uncover the secrets about their feelings and what causes them to bite in these situations. Does your dog enjoy being touched? Tell me in the comments! #wimbledon #puppytraining #puppytrainer

⚠️Warning! Blue/Green Algae! ⚠️Please watch this reel if you’re walking your dogs around Wimbledon area/London. 🐾#adventurepawstraining

Introducing your puppy to a crate doesn’t have to be a stressful or difficult process- here’s my latest reel with some tips to make the introduction as smooth as possible. 🐾 Save this for later! #adventurepawstraining

There are so many toys out there, which are best for me to use in order to play with my puppy successfully ? 👀 Have a watch of my latest reel to get some ideas! What’s your pup’s favourite toy? Tell me in the comments below. #AdventurePawsTraining

Something that is not talked about enough- The Puppy Blues. It is completely normal to feel this way, but what are the blues exactly and what can we do about it? Watch this reel to find out more. #AdventurePawsTraining

A retrieve to hand is one of the best things you can teach your dog. Being a toy snatcher will stop your puppy wanting to bring something back to you so don’t reach for their toy when they come back with it. This little guy is retrieving perfectly as he trusts my hands

Catching up with Popstar Poppy

Being the centre of your dog’s universe, popstar Poppy and Laura showing what recall should look like with ”Funder”. Amazing with a forest full of squirrels for Poppy to hunt! #teamworkmakesthedreamwork

Little Archie did his owners proud today graduating his Super Puppy package. We started virtually and ended on a high as we’ve been released with puppy steps back to normal life! He’s a superstar with the most dedicated owners #cleverboy #irishterriersofinstagram #irishterrierpuppy #floppyears #puppytraining #puppyschool #disneyeyes

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