Education Archives - Fix Georgia Pets

A Pet Lover’s Guide to Ending Senseless Euthanasia in Georgia for Father’s Day: Real Men Neuter

Man hugging his dog in their car parked outside in nature

This June, as we celebrate the strong, caring figures in our lives, we also applaud those who are dads to the furry four-legged members of our family. Extend Father’s Day celebrations to include your pets and consider how we, as pet lovers, dog lovers, and animal lovers, can influence the future of pet care in Georgia.

At Fix Georgia Pets, we are dedicated to ending the pet overpopulation epidemic and senseless euthanasia of healthy companion animals in our state. Here’s how you can help make a difference.

NOTE: Fix Georgia Pets DOES NOT spay/neuter owned/individual pets. We DO educate our community about the importance of spay/neuter and provide grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. Please see our Spay/Neuter Directory for those organizations.

Understanding the Crisis

Georgia faces a significant challenge with pet overpopulation, which leads to high rates of euthanasia. Hundreds of thousands of healthy animals are put down annually nationwide simply because there are more pets than available homes.

In 2023, nearly 20,000 companion animals were euthanized in Georgia, a heartbreaking consequence of rampant overpopulation and overwhelmed shelters. As pet lovers, we cannot stand by while these animals lose their chances at life and a happy home. Ending this crisis starts with understanding how spay/neuter can make all the difference.

The Power of Spay/Neuter Programs

One of the most effective tools in combating overpopulation is proactive spay/neuter programs. By preventing unwanted litters, these programs significantly reduce the number of animals entering shelters. For dog lovers and cat enthusiasts alike, supporting spay/neuter programs is a direct way to save lives.

At Fix Georgia Pets, we provide grants for spay/neuter programs in areas of Georgia with the highest need, ensuring that every dollar goes towards making the maximum impact. To do what we do, we need to raise funds for these grants and we need your help. Support our mission by donating to our spay/neuter grant program and help us tackle this crisis throughout Georgia.

Responsible Pet Parenting: The Health Benefits of Spaying/Neutering Your Pets

For animal lovers, the health and well-being of pets is a top priority, along with all dogs and cats finding a loving forever home. Spaying and neutering, beyond being vital tools for controlling the pet population, also offer numerous health benefits that can lead to a longer, happier life for our pets. Here are some of the important health benefits of why you should fix a pet:

For Female Pets

Reduced Risk of Cancer: Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast tumors, which are malignant or cancerous in about 50% of dogs and 90% of cats. Spaying your pet before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases.
No Heat Cycles: Eliminating heat cycles means males won’t be drawn to your female cat, and she will exhibit calmer, more stable behavior.
Longer, Healthier Lives: Spayed pets typically live longer, healthier lives. The procedure eliminates the stress and complications that come with pregnancy and birth, which is important for animal lovers who want to avoid unnecessary health risks for their pets.

For Male Pets

Prevents Testicular Cancer and Prostatitis: Neutering your male pet eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and significantly reduces the risk of prostate disease, a common problem in older, unneutered dogs.
Reduces Aggressive Behavior: Lower testosterone levels lead to decreased aggression and a reduced likelihood of dog bites.
Prevents Roaming and Escapes: Neutered males are less inclined to wander far from home, minimizing territorial marking and lowering their risk of engaging in fights or encountering accidents. Unneutered males can detect a female in heat from miles away, often prompting them to roam in search of her.
Reduces or Eliminates Risk of Spraying and Marking: You don’t want your home to become the toilet for your dog or cat. Neutering your male dog or cat can drastically reduce or even eliminate marking behaviors that can otherwise destroy your home.

General Health Benefits

Better Overall Behavior: Neutered animals are often better behaved, more focused on their human families, and less likely to exhibit unwanted behaviors such as biting, roaming, or other aggressive tendencies.
Cost-Effective: Investing in spay/neuter procedures can save animal lovers considerable expense in the long run by avoiding costs associated with care for unexpected litters or treatment for diseases common in unaltered pets.

For all pet owners, understanding these benefits is essential. Spaying and neutering not only help reduce the number of homeless pets but also contributes to a healthier, more fulfilling life for the pets we love. This month, dog and cat lovers should consider spaying or neutering as a gift to their pets—a gift of health. And for the guys worried that neutering your male dog or cat will impact you—rest assured, it won’t. Besides, real men neuter their pets. It’s a smart move for both of you!

Engaging Communities: A Call to Animal Lovers

Community engagement is crucial. We rely on animal lovers across Georgia to spread the word and encourage responsible pet ownership.

Educating the public about the benefits of spay/neuter and adopting from shelters rather than purchasing pets from stores or legitimate/backyard breeders can shift the paradigm towards a more sustainable future for our animals.

A great way to spread awareness and contribute to the cause is to purchase the Georgia Pet Foundation’s specialty license plate, designed by local Georgia street/folk artist Kyle Brooks. The proceeds from this plate go directly to help fund the Fix Georgia Pets strategic spay/neuter grant program. Plus, it’s art for your car, offering a distinctive way to promote the cause and save lives while you drive!

Father’s Day Activities to Promote Pet Love

This June, as we honor all fathers, please consider these activities to strengthen your bond with both your family and your pets, and to advocate for their well-being:

Volunteer Together: Spend quality time with your family by volunteering at a local shelter. It’s a meaningful way to show how much you love your pet and love giving back to the community.
Adoption Days: Many shelters have special adoption fees and events around Father’s Day. Encourage pet lovers to consider giving a forever home to a pet in need. It definitely saves a life.
Golf for a Cause: This Father’s Day, get your dad tickets to the Fix Georgia Pets 8th Annual Golf Tournament, held in October at Druid Hills Golf Club. This fundraising golf tournament is a great way to support our crucial mission and have fun doing it!
Visit a Pet-Loving Georgia Winery: For those dads who love wine, visit a local Georgia winery that supports the Fix Georgia Pets spay and neuter grant program. Animal lovers can even bring their pets to the pet-friendly Stonewall Creek Vineyards, a Fix Georgia Pets donor partner. Enjoy a day in the sunshine tasting local wine with your family and furry friends too!
Educational Workshops: Participate in or organize workshops that discuss pet care, the importance of spay/neuter, and how to get involved with local animal welfare initiatives. Fix Georgia Pets is part of the 25th Annual APAW (Animal Protection And Wellness) Expo held on October 18th and 19th, 2024. Here, you can learn all about the items listed above. You don’t want to miss it!
Fundraising Events: Host a barbecue, car wash, or another Father’s Day event to raise funds for spay/neuter programs. Invite other families, friends, and their pets to attend! It’s a fun way to engage dog lovers and support a vital cause.

Dad, daughter and dog outside at park looking happy

Advocacy and Legislation

Pet lovers can also advocate for stronger animal welfare laws and support legislation that promotes spay/neuter programs. Contacting local representatives such as the Georgia Pet Coalition and voicing support for animal-friendly policies can lead to substantial changes at the legislative level. If you’d like more information about how to get involved, contact us at Fix Georgia Pets.

Stories of Hope and Love

At Fix Georgia Pets, we’ve witnessed countless stories of pet lovers making a real difference. From families who adopt and nurture shelter pets to dog lovers who tirelessly volunteer at shelters and spay/neuter events to our grant partners who facilitate life-saving services with affordable spay/neuter programs, these stories inspire and propel our mission forward.

They remind us of the powerful bond between pets and people—a bond that enhances and often extends the lives of pets across Georgia. Check out powerful testimonials from some of the beneficiaries of our grants for spay and neuter programs who are on the front lines of this crucial mission.

A Sustainable Future for Our Pets

For animal lovers, every day is an opportunity to make a difference. During June (and all year), let’s celebrate Father’s Day by taking action to ensure a future where no healthy pet in Georgia is euthanized for lack of a home. Whether you’re a seasoned pet lover or new to having a pet, your actions can contribute to a larger movement of pet care, responsibility and love.

Fix Georgia Pets invites all animal lovers to join us in this crucial mission. Together, with love, dedication and funds, we can end senseless euthanasia in Georgia. This Father’s Day, let’s pledge to love our pets like family and protect those in shelters everywhere. Your involvement can transform lives and bring us closer to a future where every pet receives the love and care they deserve.

Through understanding, action, and advocacy, dog and cat lovers across Georgia can help create a sustainable, loving environment for all pets. This Father’s Day, embrace the role of being not just a pet owner, but a pet hero. Spread the love and join the fight against senseless euthanasia. Let’s work together to ensure our furry friends have the bright futures they deserve.

How Grants for Spay and Neuter Programs Are Making a Difference in Georgia

Fix Georgia Pets’ Executive Director presents Planned Pethood of Georgia with a grant for their spay neuter program

In the battle against pet overpopulation, Georgia stands as a critical battleground. Shockingly, the state is one of the top contributors to shelter animal euthanasia, with nearly 20,000 animals put to sleep in 2023, due to this overwhelming issue. Fortunately, targeted initiatives like grants for spay and neuter programs are making significant strides in addressing this heartbreaking problem. These grants for spay and neuter programs not only facilitate crucial surgeries, but also foster an environment of proactive pet management, involving communities and pet owners in the effort to curb this crisis. By breaking down financial barriers through free grants in Georgia and providing widespread access to spay and neuter services, these initiatives aim to drastically reduce the number of animals entering shelters and improve the overall health and quality of life for pets across the whole state. Through this strategic approach to providing grants for spay neuter programs, Georgia is transforming a grim statistic into a hopeful future for its animal residents.

The Stark Reality of Pet Overpopulation

Pet overpopulation presents a critical challenge in Georgia, a state identified as one of five that collectively account for 44% of the nation’s shelter animal euthanasia annually. This distressing figure highlights the urgent need for effective population control strategies within Georgia. Central to this effort are spay and neuter programs, which are bolstered by free grants in Georgia. These grants for spay and neuter programs play a crucial role not only in managing the pet population but also in drastically reducing the number of animals that must be euthanized in shelters each year. The consequences of pet overpopulation are severe, affecting both animals and the communities they inhabit. Here are some key considerations regarding the issue:

High Euthanasia Rates

Since COVID-19, the dumping of companion animals at shelters, rescues, and even on the side of the road, has increased dramatically. With this large influx of animals entering shelters, many facilities are extremely overcrowded which sadly results in the euthanasia of healthy animals simply because there is not enough space or resources to care for them. Organizations like Fix Georgia Pets work to reduce these numbers by raising money to fund grants for low-cost or no-cost spay and neuter programs, which directly impact the overpopulation problem.

Strain on Resources

Overpopulation puts a heavy strain on animal shelters and rescue organizations. Resources such as food, medical care, and space are limited, and when these facilities are overwhelmed, it becomes difficult to maintain adequate care for each animal.

Impact on Public Health and Safety

Overpopulation can also lead to more stray animals, which increases the risk of traffic accidents, the spread of diseases, and other public health concerns. Stray animals may also form packs that can pose safety risks to communities. There has been an uptick in dog bite cases throughout Georgia due to the dumping of dogs. These dogs are often attacked by other animals or people, starved, hit by cars, or become aggressive.

Economic Burden

Managing pet overpopulation causes a financial burden not only for animal shelters and rescues but also for local governments that must fund animal control operations and public shelters. Preventative measures like spaying and neutering are cost-effective in the long run as they reduce the number of animals that need to be managed.

The Power of Spay and Neuter Grants

Spay and Neuter clinic at the Rescue Ranch in McRae, Georgia. The Rescue Ranch services 76 counties in middle Georgia

Spay and neuter grants are indispensable in the fight against pet overpopulation, serving as a key resource for local shelters, rescues and veterinary clinics across Georgia. The strategic deployment of these grants for spay neuter programs significantly amplifies the reach and effectiveness of spay and neuter initiatives. Fix Georgia Pets focuses on low-income and rural areas where the need is great.

Increase Accessibility of Spay and Neuter Services with Free Grants in Georgia

By providing financial support through grants for spay neuter programs, organizations like Fix Georgia Pets enable these facilities to offer crucial surgeries at substantially reduced costs or even for free. This provision of free grants in Georgia is crucial, particularly for under-resourced shelters and low-income pet owners who might otherwise be unable to afford these surgeries. By covering the cost of surgeries, these grants ensure that financial barriers do not prevent the sterilization of pets, which is essential for controlling the pet population at a community level. This proactive approach directly targets the root cause of overpopulation—uncontrolled breeding. In a six-year period a female and male dog and their offspring, who are not fixed, can produce over 67,000 offspring. By preventing the birth of unwanted litters, these initiatives help curb the influx of animals into shelters, thereby mitigating the burden on these facilities and reducing the need for euthanasia of healthy animals.

Foster Collaboration

Moreover, spay and neuter grants foster a collaborative approach by uniting various stakeholders, including veterinary professionals, animal rescue organizations, and community members, towards a common goal. The availability of these free grants in Georgia often encourages more veterinary clinics to participate in spay and neuter programs, thereby expanding access to these vital services across the state.

Promote Education and Outreach

These grants for spay neuter programs also support the education and outreach necessary to raise awareness about the benefits of spay and neuter procedures. Education plays a critical role in changing community attitudes and encouraging pet owners to take responsible actions that contribute to the welfare of their animals and the community at large.

Create Systemic Change

Overall, the power of spay and neuter grants lies in their ability to effect systemic change. By making spay and neuter surgeries more accessible and affordable, these grants for spay and neuter programs not only help control animal populations but also promote healthier pet communities and foster a more humane approach to animal welfare. With continued support and expansion of these grant programs, we can anticipate a significant and sustained reduction in pet overpopulation and euthanasia rates in Georgia and beyond.

Testimonials Highlighting the Impact of Grants for Spay and Neuter Programs

Tricia Holder of Fix Georgia Pets at The Rescue Ranch

Tricia Holder, Executive Director of Fix Georgia Pets at The Rescue Ranch with Barbara Briguim, Founder

Since our inception in 2012, Fix Georgia Pets has been a beacon of hope in Georgia’s battle against pet overpopulation and the high rates of euthanasia in our shelters. Our unwavering commitment to funding and grants for spay neuter programs has not only saved thousands of pets from euthanasia but also sparked a positive shift toward responsible pet ownership throughout the state, thus lowering the overpopulation epidemic.

We build robust partnerships with local organizations and communities, amplifying our impact and creating a unified front against the challenges our beloved pets face.

Good Mews Partnership

Good Mews, a virtually cage-free, no-kill cat shelter, epitomizes the success of these initiatives. In partnership with Fix Georgia Pets, Good Mews utilized our grant in 2023 to spay/neuter 340 cats. This intervention not only helps control the cat population but also enhances the welfare of the animals under their care, ensuring they lead healthier, longer lives.

The Rescue Ranch Efforts

Similarly, The Rescue Ranch in McRae, Georgia, demonstrates the broader impact of these grants. Serving an extensive area that includes 75 counties, the ranch has, with the aid of grants for spay and neuter programs, performed 3,040 surgeries in 2023 alone. Since its inception in 2009, over 32,602 animals have been spayed or neutered, significantly curbing the potential birth of thousands of animals that would otherwise strain local shelters or be left without care.

Planned PEThood’s Milestone

Earlier this year, Planned PEThood and veterinarian Dr. Murphy celebrated their 10,000th spay/neuter surgery. Planned PEThood of Georgia became an official partner with Fix Georgia Pets in February 2024, committing to continuing their work to provide low-cost, affordable spay/neuter services to pet owners and shelters.

Community Engagement and Support

The success of these programs is not just a matter of funding but also community engagement. Grants for spay neuter programs serve as a catalyst for wider community involvement, encouraging more people to participate in the solution. By supporting Fix Georgia Pets, community members can contribute to a sustainable change in animal welfare.

How You Can Help

You can play a crucial role in this vital cause. Join us in the crusade to end the cycle of euthanasia for healthy companion animals. There are many ways to support the Fix Georgia Pets grant program. For instance, you can attend our exciting annual events including our Spring Wine Fling, which features local Georgia winery partners, our Annual Gala, and our Golf Tournament. Or, you can directly donate to our grant program to fund free grants in Georgia for spay/neuter providers. Each contribution helps extend the reach and effectiveness of our spay and neuter initiatives.

The Future of Pet Welfare in Georgia

With ongoing support for spay and neuter grants, we can look forward to a future where the crisis of euthanasia due to overpopulation is a thing of the past. The efforts of organizations like Fix Georgia Pets to provide free grants in Georgia are pivotal in shaping this future.

Through the strategic use of grants for spay and neuter programs and the dedicated work of countless volunteers and professionals, we are making a measurable difference in the lives of pets and people across Georgia. By continuing to support these efforts, we can turn the tide against pet overpopulation and celebrate a new era of pet well-being in our state.

Together, let’s provide free grants in Georgia for spay and neuter programs, fix a pet, and create a humane, compassionate community where every pet is valued and cared for. Join us in this vital mission and help us continue to make a difference in the lives of animals throughout Georgia.

How to Fix a Pet: 5 Things You Need to Know

Are you considering getting your furry friend “fixed” but aren’t quite sure where to start? Look no further! Fix Georgia Pets is here to guide you through the process with five essential things you need to know about spaying and neutering your beloved companion.

In the state of Georgia, we face a pressing issue of companion animal overpopulation, coupled with distressingly high euthanasia rates. It’s a crisis that demands immediate attention and proactive solutions. At Fix Georgia Pets, our mission is crystal clear: to collaborate with partners who are helping the most vulnerable communities across the state, putting an end to pet overpopulation and senseless euthanasia through comprehensive spay/neuter programs.

We firmly believe that to tackle the overarching problem of pet overpopulation, our focus must be on preventive measures. By giving aid to those offering accessible spay/neuter services in communities at the highest risk, we aim to stem the tide of unwanted litters, reducing the influx of animals into shelters and ultimately saving lives.

Now, let’s delve into the crucial aspects of fixing your pet and why it’s such a vital step in promoting responsible pet ownership and creating a more humane society.

1. Understanding the Importance of Fixing Your Pet

When it comes to comprehending the significance of spaying and neutering your beloved companion, it’s essential to grasp the profound impact it has on both individual pets and the wider community. At Fix Georgia Pets, we advocate for fixing your pet as a fundamental responsibility of pet ownership.

By spaying or neutering your pet, you actively contribute to reducing the number of unwanted animals that end up in shelters, facing uncertain futures, or even euthanasia. When you fix your pet, you’re not only ensuring their own quality of life but also taking a proactive stance in addressing a statewide crisis.

Whether you’re considering fixing a male dog or a female dog, the underlying principle remains the same: responsible pet ownership starts with making the choice to prevent unplanned litters. By taking this simple yet impactful step, you become part of the solution to a complex problem, paving the way for a future where every pet has a loving home and a chance at a fulfilling life.

2. The Process: How Much to Fix a Dog

One of the common questions pet owners ask is, “How much does it cost to fix a dog?” The cost can vary depending on factors like the size of your pet, their age, and whether they have any underlying health conditions. When you decide to fix your pet, whether it’s a male or female dog, it’s essential to understand the financial investment involved. On average, the cost to spay or neuter a dog ranges from $50 to $200. However, keep in mind that this cost is minimal compared to the long-term benefits for your pet and the community.

When considering the cost of fixing your pet, it’s crucial to view it from the perspective of being a responsible pet owner. When you fix your male dog, you’re helping to curb behaviors such as roaming and marking territory, making them safer and more manageable companions. Similarly, fixing your female dog eliminates the risk of unwanted pregnancies and the associated health risks, ensuring she can lead a happy and healthy life by your side.

Ultimately, the decision to fix your pet is one that comes with both immediate and long-term benefits. By investing in spaying or neutering your dog, you’re not only taking proactive steps to address pet overpopulation and reduce euthanasia rates but also prioritizing their health and well-being for years to come.

3. Spaying vs. Neutering: What’s the Difference?

Spaying and neutering are both surgical procedures aimed at preventing reproduction in pets, but they differ in their approach and the organs targeted. Spaying is the term used for the procedure performed on female pets, involving the removal of their reproductive organs, including the ovaries and uterus. Neutering, on the other hand, is the procedure performed on male pets, which involves the removal of their testicles.

While the primary goal of both procedures is to prevent unwanted pregnancies, there are additional benefits associated with each. Spaying eliminates the possibility of pregnancy and heat cycles in female pets, significantly reducing the risk of uterine infections and certain types of cancer. Neutering, besides preventing male pets from fathering litters, can also reduce behaviors such as marking territory with urine and aggression prompted by the desire to mate.

It’s essential to discuss with your veterinarian the most appropriate timing for spaying or neutering your pet. While the procedures are generally safe and commonly performed, the timing may vary depending on factors such as the breed, age, and overall health of your pet. Your veterinarian can provide personalized recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs and circumstances.

By understanding the distinction between spaying and neutering, you can make an informed decision regarding the best course of action for your furry companion. Whether you have a female or male pet, both procedures offer numerous benefits beyond preventing overpopulation, contributing to a happier, healthier life for your pet.

4. Benefits of Fixing Your Pet

Besides preventing overpopulation and reducing euthanasia rates, spaying and neutering offer numerous benefits for your pet’s health and behavior. When you choose to fix your pet, you’re not only making a responsible decision for the community but also for your furry friend’s well-being.

Let’s explore some of the key benefits (even those we briefly mentioned above):

Health Benefits: Spaying your female pet eliminates the risk of uterine infections and greatly reduces the risk of mammary tumors, especially if the procedure is done before their first heat cycle. Neutering your male pet prevents testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate problems. Overall, fixed pets tend to live longer, healthier lives.

Behavioral Improvements: One of the most noticeable benefits of spaying or neutering your pet is the positive impact on their behavior. Female pets won’t go into heat, which means they won’t experience the distressing behavioral changes associated with it, such as restlessness, yowling, and spraying urine. Male pets are less likely to exhibit behaviors like roaming, marking territory by spraying urine, or aggression toward other animals.

Reduced Roaming: Intact pets, especially males, are more likely to roam in search of a mate. This not only puts them at risk of accidents and injuries but also increases the likelihood of them getting lost or stolen. By fixing your pet, you can help keep them safe and close to home.

Prevents Unwanted Litters: Perhaps the most obvious benefit of spaying and neutering is preventing unwanted litters. Every year, millions of animals end up in shelters across the country, many of whom are euthanized due to lack of space or resources. By ensuring your pet can’t contribute to the cycle of overpopulation, you’re directly contributing to reducing the burden on shelters and giving other animals a better chance at finding forever homes.

Supporting Responsible Pet Ownership: By choosing to fix your pet, you’re demonstrating your commitment to being a responsible pet owner. You’re not only considering the well-being of your own pet but also the broader impact on the community and the welfare of other animals.

Ultimately, fixing your pet isn’t just about preventing unwanted pregnancies—it’s about promoting their health, well-being, and happiness, while also making a positive difference in the lives of countless animals in need.

5. How to Take Action: Fixing Your Pet and Making a Difference

You’ve learned about the importance, benefits, and process of spaying and neutering your pet. Now, it’s time to take that knowledge and turn it into action. Here’s how you can make a real difference:

Schedule the Procedure

The first step is scheduling the spay or neuter procedure for your pet. Contact your local veterinarian or animal clinic to book an appointment. If cost is a concern, inquire about low-cost or subsidized spay/neuter programs available in your area. Many animal welfare organizations, including Fix Georgia Pets, offer affordable options to ensure that cost is not a barrier to responsible pet care.

Spread the Word

Share your experience and the importance of spaying and neutering with friends, family, and colleagues. Education is key to changing attitudes and behaviors towards pet ownership. Encourage others to follow suit and take responsibility for their pets by getting them fixed.

Volunteer or Support Spay/Neuter Programs

Get involved with local organizations dedicated to spaying and neutering pets. Whether it’s volunteering at a clinic, assisting with outreach efforts, or making a donation, your contribution can directly impact the success of these programs. Your time, skills, or financial support can help more pets receive the care they need and deserve.

Advocate for Policy Change

Advocate for legislative measures that promote spaying and neutering, such as mandatory spay/neuter laws for pets adopted from shelters or breeding regulations to prevent overpopulation. By engaging with policymakers and supporting initiatives that prioritize animal welfare, you can influence systemic change and create a more compassionate society for pets.

Support Fix Georgia Pets

Consider supporting organizations like Fix Georgia Pets that are at the forefront of the fight against pet overpopulation. Your donation enables us to expand our reach, help organizations provide spay/neuter services to underserved communities, and implement initiatives aimed at long-term solutions. Together, we can make a tangible impact on the lives of pets and their owners across the state of Georgia.

Taking action to fix your pet is not just about individual responsibility—it’s about collective action and community engagement. By working together, we can build a future where every pet has a loving home and every community is free from the burden of pet overpopulation. Join us in our mission to fix Georgia, one pet at a time.

Ready to make a difference? Donate today and help us create a brighter future for pets in Georgia.

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