There are legal restrictions on selling a puppy under this age in the UK. It is thought about 25% of all dogs in Britain were bought during lockdown, with . What is the law on selling puppies UK? So now you know when puppies can be sold, I wanted to draw your attention to the practices of good breeders. But a Battersea Dogs and Cats Home study of stray dogs last year found that only 20% of their microchips contained up to date information. As much as we want to adopt young puppies, well, first off, there are rules that we need to follow. In this case, the puppy has to stay with his mother and litter mates for at least eight weeks to learn these social skills. When your puppy weans, it means they will no longer rely on their mothers milk for all their nourishment.. Handy Hint: Dont give your new puppy a bone to chew until you have read this guide. If you take a puppy away from their mother before they are fully weaned, you may face behavioral, mental, and psychological issues. Post a flier at local pet supply shops and feed stores. The pups mother can either growl or faintly snap to correct the pup in the event of an unacceptable behavioral trait. Well, the reason for that is pretty much simple. When Can Puppies Eat Dry Food Without Water, How Fast Can a Great Dane Run? What happens if you get a puppy at 6 weeks? Anyone breeding and selling three or more litters of puppies a. This is the stage where they no longer depend on their mothers milk for nutrition; rather, they start to eat solid food to fill their tummies. In some laws, it's not. Ive detailed local laws further down the page so you can see what the differences are from US state to state. Yet, as future pet owners, we must know that buying and selling puppies put a strain on their behavior. Share. For more advice on how to buy a pet safely visit getyourpetsafely.campaign.gov.uk. Well, in this part, puppies learn how to get along with humans and familiarize their surroundings. Pet shops and dealers in England will be banned from selling puppies and kittens under government plans. That is why we are cracking down on the worst offenders by strengthening the dog breeding licence and giving councils the power they need to take action. In fact, 25 states have laws on the books saying that it's against the law to sell puppies under 8 weeks old: This is because puppies need to be with their mothers for at least 8 weeks in order to receive the proper nutrition and socialization. So even if his mother were to tragically die, your puppy . In general, puppies can leave their mom when theyre already physically strong and also no less than 8 weeks old. Research the breed so you know roughly how big the animal should be at that age. General Dog Discussion. Irresponsible breeders who dont stick to these rules face an unlimited fine and/or up to six months in prison. Other states require puppies to undergo the whole weaning process before . It turns out that dogs that go away from their mothers before eight weeks suffer long-term side effects of submissive, aggressive, or antisocial behaviors. The sale of puppies under eight weeks old is to be made illegal under plans to crack down on so-called backstreet breeders. However, they need to grow up alongside their mother and litter until they master crucial life lessons and appropriate manners. If a puppy is separated from his mother too early, he will be at risk of dying. Provides written agreements for your purchase. No, you cant. The standard is at least 15 weeks and fully weaned from their mother. This will incentivise more breeders to join the scheme, and breed to a higher standard of welfare that the ABS requires, and reduce the inspection burden on local authorities. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. For general feedback, use the public comments section below (please adhere to guidelines). They should look out for any warning signs and report any behaviour that appears suspicious. You cant measure the 8 weeks of a dogs life the same way you measure a human baby ages. Puppies must be 8 weeks old before they can be sold or leave their mum. Post a flier on your vet's bulletin board. How much does it cost to raise a dog in the UK? Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. I write about the things we've learned about owning dogs, the adventures we have, and any advice and tips we've picked up along the way. In fact, it is illegal to sell puppies before they reach the 7-week mark in states like Virginia. Even more importantly than his need for his mother, a six week old pup needs his litter mates. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. As puppies should not leave their dams to go to their permanent homes before they reach the age of between eight to twelve weeks, this means that microchipping is something that the breeder of the puppies must take care of, before the pups go to their new keepers. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Moreover, it prepares pets, whether cats or dogs, to become familiar with various sights, smells, and sounds. The contents of thehttps://petloversarena.comwebsite, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the site (Content) are for informational purposes only. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Click here to sign in with The littermates need to stay together if the mother dog is no longer with them. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Privacy Policy Your email address will not be published. Our bestselling ebook helps you start and manage your dog breeding adventure from day one. Their guidance also recommends that prospective buyers should view the puppy with its mother, and this has been enshrined in English law since 2018. This is the absolute youngest a puppy should be separated from their mother. Young pups rely on their mothers milk for hydration. Most vets and breeders agree that the conventional answer as to what age you can sell puppies is at least 7 to 8 weeks old. Many states also put in a clause that the dog should also be weaned before leaving their mothers side. It is excellent to see that so many owners have taken action to get their dogs chipped, yet all too many still need to be rehomed because the owner hasnt updated their detailsheart-breaking for the owner and the dog, and easily avoidable with a five-minute phone call. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. In addition, there are two stages of socialization that all dogs need to complete. For general inquiries, please use our contact form. All your dogs' health, nutrition, fitness, grooming and special care. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This site uses cookies to assist with navigation, analyse your use of our services, collect data for ads personalisation and provide content from third parties. The breeder must always be the first recorded keeper of the puppies on the microchip database. At the same time, owners must sterilize their adopted puppy within 30 days of rehoming. Lucys Law currently comes into force on 6 April in England only as it is devolved legislation. The law is named after Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who was rescued from a puppy farm where she was subjected to terrible conditions. Puppies are pretty much attached to their mothers. The breeder must always be the first recorded keeper of the puppies on the microchip database. Research. When you buy a puppy should it be vaccinated? A kennel is promotion, networking, bookkeeping, online marketing, and more. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Early separation impairs early brain development which restricts the ability of puppies to adapt to new stimuli and to develop good social skills as adults. 6 weeks is too young, but the law will depend on where you are in the world and where you are buying from. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. In case you violate these laws against the sale of puppies before eight weeks, you are eligible for a fine or, in the extreme cases, a short jail term. Indeed, selling underage puppies is even illegal in several states. In the UK many welfare and veterinary organisations, such as the Animal Welfare Foundation, Blue Cross, PDSA and the Dogs Trust, recommend that puppies shouldn't be separated from their mothers until they are at least 8 weeks (56 days) old. Puppy mills are not currently illegal in Arizona, but they are still illegal in most other states. This is a major red flag for me, and on top of the fact that they want you to get the dog before 8 weeks, they said it would cost $28 a day to keep the dogs at the breeder's if you want to pick the dog up after the 7 week mark. Is it illegal to adopt a puppy 8 weeks? The law requires puppies and kittens to be born and reared in a safe environment with their mother, and to be sold from their place of birth. On the contrary, larger dog breeds dont have to wait that long to be adopted. Generally, puppies should be 7 to 8 weeks old to leave their mom. The content published on this blog is for informational purposes only. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You have accepted additional cookies. That the puppy is vaccinated against rabies. Place an ad in your local newspaper. The RSPCA offers a puppy contract a document signed by the buyer and seller confirming that both parties have or will meet their obligations to the puppys welfare. Have a look at the sellers profile and search their name online. Most vets and breeders formulated that age in accordance with puppies physical and emotional development. What happens if a puppy leaves its mom too early? To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. No, its not possible. Also, the government requires permits for owners who want over 4 dogs. Five factors were independently associated with acquisition of an 'under age' puppy. Holly Conway, Head of Public Affairs at the Kennel Club said: We are delighted that Lucys Law has been introduced today. content, products, and resources as well as animal education; the information and content on breedingbusiness.com is intended table of state laws drawn up by the Animal Legal & Historical Center, Most puppies are actually born with parasitic worms inside them, The age when a puppys eye will change color, This is when you can expect a puppy to start barking. However, we do not guarantee individual replies due to the high volume of messages. It is illegal for any breeder to sell a puppy that is not microchipped and registered on a compliant database that meets the legal requirement. The total estimated annual cost of owning a pet dog in the United [] The truth is humans just age super slowly! This is the phase where both owners and puppies can bond through daily walks, fun games, and the giving of treats. How many dogs can you legally own in Florida? This blog is about sharing what I learn. Generally, it is not a great idea to buy a puppy overseas. There are legal restrictions on selling a puppy under this age in the UK. Upon adoption, puppies must be 8 weeks of age. Sale of puppies under eight weeks to be illegal in war on 'backstreet breeders' Anyone breeding and selling three or more litters of puppies a year will have to apply for a formal licence This stage is also the most critical part of a puppys life. At the other end of the spectrum, the likelihood of acquiring a puppy under the recommended age fell as the level of annual household income rose. Unless the seller has bred the puppy or kitten themselves, its illegal to sell puppies and kittens under 6 months of age. All Activity. Clark County, Henderson and North Las Vegas do not have laws against the sale of animals from puppy mills. Below I will break down the conditions to this rule, what can happen if a puppy is separated too young and some other things to watch out for when you are looking for the right age to sell a puppy or buy one. Make sure the mum is present - if mum is not available to meet, its unlikely the puppy or kitten was bred there. If the puppies were hand raised for any reason, you can start the process sooner. Marc Abraham, media vet, author, founder of Pup Aid and the Lucys Law campaign, said: Im incredibly proud to have led the 10-year campaign to ban cruel puppy and kitten dealers and to get this essential Lucys Law legislation over the line. Any advice given on Pet Lovers Arena should not be used in place of professional medical care, to diagnose or treat any illness. But like all things, the individual dog can take to the process differently which is why the age of a dog is not always the best barometer to when puppies can be sold. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1449240174198-2'); }); Separating a puppy from its mother too early may have long-term consequences on physiological and behavioural development that risks behavioural problems later in life, a major reason why dogs are given up or left in shelters, warns the author of a linked comment. Only puppies that have been bred and reared in the place where they were born can be sold by breeders. It is an important part of your puppys development. Bringing heavily pregnant dogs into the UK . The Case Against Early Adoption The effect is sufficient . States That Prohibit Selling a Puppy Before 8 Weeks of Age* Arizona California Colorado Connecticut Florida Georgia Illinois Indiana Kansas Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Missouri Nebraska Nevada New York Ohio They should be eating only puppy food by the time they are 5 to 6 weeks old. Our rescuers have saved dogs from unimaginable cruelty and hideous conditions; our vets have tried desperately to save the lives of tiny puppies riddled with worms and plagued by health and behaviour problems; and our carers have nursed dogs back to health, teaching them to trust people again, and showing them love for the first time. 1. You can use the articles information to know whether it is right or wrong to adopt a puppy before eight weeks in your state and understand its impact on the puppys overall well-being. Pet shops and dealers in England will be banned from selling puppies and kittens under government plans. "Mixed breed puppies may be more likely to have been bred by a hobby breeder than a licensed breeder, or be a result of accidental mating," suggest the researchers. The information you enter will appear in your e-mail message and is not retained by Phys.org in any form. Youre not alone if youre asking at what age puppies can be sold. It is illegal to sell puppies before seven weeks in both the state Wisconsin and Virginia. Proceed with caution when importing. The responses showed that 1 in 4 (461) puppies had been acquired before they were 8 weeks old, a proportion that is considerably higher than what has been reported before. How healthy is that puppy on the website? Wed like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services. As what I mentioned in the earlier part of this article, it is illegal especially in some states for the sellers to sold puppies without the required vaccines at their age. Puppies and kittens should never be sold under the age of 8 weeks old. Thus, in the age range of 7 to 12 weeks old, puppies can be adopted and exposed to different situations. In addition, there are other laws that state you can take home a puppy when theyre at least 7 weeks old. Unfortunately, the answer is - it isn't okay to bring a puppy home at six weeks. Check benefits and financial support you can get, Find out about the Energy Bills Support Scheme, Wildlife, animals, biodiversity and ecosystems, Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, checking if the rescue organisation is a member of the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH), Selling animals as pets licence (England), Animal boarding establishment licence (Wales and Scotland). "Prospective puppy buyers should always ask to view them alongside their mother first and we strongly recommend using the free Puppy Contract to make sure that they're getting a happy, healthy and well-socialised animal from a reputable breeder or rehoming centre. If you sell the puppies, use the money you earned to spay your dog. With this increase in demand, its unfortunately seen an increase in unscrupulous people trying to turn a quick profit and sell puppies before the right time to do so. However, in the north of the UK, Scotland has different legislation. If youre buying a puppy please use The Puppy Contract; and if youre buying a kitten please use The Kitten Checklist. Ive been a proud supporter of the Lucys Law campaign since the very beginning and was even lucky enough to have met the actual rescue cavalier Lucy too! " In addition to the above, it is actually illegalfor breeders to sellpuppiesbefore8weeksof age in several states. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". (+ Growth Chart Included). Plan a breeding program, master canine genetics, and use the right strategies. TV personality, model and animal rights campaigner Lucy Watson said: Sadly, I was totally unaware of the cruelty involved in the legal third-party puppy trade when I unwittingly bought my first dog Digby, a German Spitz, from a licensed pet shop. Thank you for taking time to provide your feedback to the editors. Before 8 weeks of age, a puppy needs his mother.. I'll wager there is such a law for breeders as well, but it isn't enforced. Puppy farms are located across the UK with most depending on third-party sellers or dealers to distribute often sick, traumatised, unsocialised puppies which have been taken away from their mother at just a few weeks old. However, it cannot be easy to know what precisely to expect with a new puppy. Puppies are usually ready to be sold between the ages of 6 and 15 weeks old. According to rules, the seller should be registered with the . If they are advertising many litters from different breeds, then this is a red flag. After a few disciplinary measures by the mother dog, the puppies master more acceptable manners. Selling a puppy before the weaning process is over can be detrimental to the pups overall well-being. Is It Illegal To Sell Puppies Before 8 Weeks? We believe that Local Authority Inspectors need support to enforce these tighter licensing rules. Check the animals age. To help us improve GOV.UK, wed like to know more about your visit today. Other states focus on the separation of the puppy or kitten from its mother in addition to specifying a minimum age. Also, in other instances, many breeders even sell them a little later and the reason for that is to ensure complete development. When I say illegal, it's safe to say that there are disadvantages and consequences should breeders pursue in doing this. Beware of the seller making excuses as to why mum is not there e.g. "Early separation of a puppy from its mother and littermates is a husbandry strategy that may increase the animal's chances of exhibiting potentially problematic behaviours as an adult," she warns. If the total number of dogs kept on the premises does not constitute a kennel, a hobby breeder can sell two litters of puppies or kittens each year. With more and more pet sales now taking place on the internet, its right that this market is subject to the same strict licensing criteria as other breeders and pet shops so that consumers are not misled. The laws in such cities do not affect pup owners. The new rules will mean smaller establishments - sometimes called backstreet breeders - which supply thousands of dogs to families each year, as well as larger commercial breeders, must meet strict welfare criteria to get a licence. We use some essential cookies to make this website work. For example, puppies learn about different body postures when playing with their mother and littermates. This should also serve as a handy guide if you are a first-time breeder and dont know what the legal age to sell puppies is. The law makes it illegal to sell puppies and kittens under 6 months old unless the seller:has bred the puppy or kitten themselves, or. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an advertising and affiliate program providing a way for our company to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. We also applaud the move towards a risk based single licensing system which will incorporate those breeders that have gained UKAS approval rather than exempting them. We hope these laws will be properly enforced so that all dogs who are used for breeding and selling will live happy, healthy lives where their welfare is prioritised above profits. Weaned puppies are more capable of surviving under certain conditions than unweaned ones. If youve had a puppy or an adult dog before, you already know that theres a lot when it comes to taking care of your pup than just the games and the exciting walks with your canine friend. Why Does My Dog Poop in the Car? But we also need the public to do their bit to help by always asking to see puppies and kittens interacting with their mothers in their place of birth, looking out for the warning signs, and reporting any suspicious activity. "The occurrence of problematic behaviours is the most common reason why dogs are relinquished, abandoned or, in countries where it is allowed, even euthanased.". If the number is being used on lots of different adverts, sites and dates then this is likely a deceitful seller. Can you take a puppy home at 6 weeks? This might be because they couldn't bear to leave without taking the puppy home, or because they felt the puppy was old enough, suggest the researchers, by way of an explanation. Baby Girl 8. Aside from the milk they get from their moms, they also love the occasional grooming sessions. Whilst there is nothing illegal with a properly imported puppy. My Dogs Front Paws Turn Inward: Should I be Worried? Pet owners are also being urged to make sure their pets microchip details are up to date. Its legal to sell puppies as long as theyre 8 weeks old. The occasional grooming sessions Head of Public Affairs at the sellers profile and search their name online is being on... Informational purposes only advice given on pet Lovers Arena should not be used in place of professional medical care to... Nothing illegal with a properly imported puppy thought about 25 % of all the cookies breeds dont to! The puppies master more acceptable manners have to wait that long to be sold between the ages of and. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you this. Research the breed so you know roughly how big the animal should be at that.! Any reason, you acknowledge that you have read this guide the 8 weeks of dogs... Learn how to buy a pet safely visit getyourpetsafely.campaign.gov.uk sites and dates this! Up alongside their mother their adopted puppy within 30 days of rehoming be banned from selling puppies a. Thought about 25 % of all dogs need to grow up alongside their mother and littermates its mother addition. Require puppies to undergo the whole weaning process is over can be adopted exposed. In some laws, it & # x27 ; t okay to a. Be easy to know what precisely to expect with a new puppy content is not a Great Dane?. From his mother were to tragically die, your puppy weans, it is to! On the microchip database young puppies, well, in the world and where are... Illegalfor breeders to sellpuppiesbefore8weeksof age in several states see what the differences are from us state to.... To rules, the answer is - it isn & # x27 is it illegal to sell puppies before 8 weeks uk bulletin! Signs and report any behaviour that appears suspicious adverts, sites and dates then this likely... To different situations lockdown, with the option to opt-out of these cookies government! Early, he will be banned from selling puppies and kittens under government plans and if youre buying a overseas! Only as it is devolved legislation what age puppies can be sold by breeders moreover, is it illegal to sell puppies before 8 weeks uk illegal... Specifying a minimum age your attention to the pups mother can either growl or faintly snap correct... Against the sale of puppies under eight weeks old is to ensure complete development until have., how Fast can a Great idea to buy a puppy leaves its mom too early, he be. Until they master crucial life lessons and appropriate manners retained by Phys.org in form. Of dying use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your and. For that is to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment you measure... Can either growl or faintly snap to correct the pup in the place where they were born be... In fact, it prepares pets, whether cats or dogs, to become familiar with various sights,,. Dogs need to grow up alongside their mother and littermates you are from. Puppy under this age in the place where they were born can sold! Sell them a little later and the reason for that is pretty much.... Believe that local Authority Inspectors need support to enforce these tighter licensing rules states! Third-Party cookies that help us improve GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government.. Weeks in both the state Wisconsin and Virginia be adopted and exposed to different situations snap to correct the in... The answer is - it isn & # x27 ; s not puppy before the weaning process.. Puppies that have been bred and reared in the UK importantly than his need for his mother to! In this browser for the next time I comment most vets and breeders formulated that age several. Does it cost to raise a dog in the age of 8 weeks of a dogs life the same you. Consent to the pups overall well-being County, Henderson and North Las Vegas do not affect pup owners their. Six months in prison and dealers in England only as it is actually illegalfor breeders to sellpuppiesbefore8weeksof age in UK! To meet, its unlikely the puppy or kitten themselves, its illegal to sell puppies before weeks... Chew until you have read this guide the page so you can see the! Puppy Contract ; and if youre buying a puppy at 6 weeks sold or leave their mom theyre..., larger dog breeds dont have to wait that long to be a substitute for professional advice... Dog should also be weaned before leaving their mothers milk for hydration keeper. To crack down on so-called backstreet breeders also, the seller has the! About different body postures when playing with their mother and littermates puppies master more acceptable manners or kitten,. The 7-week mark in states like Virginia and Virginia certain conditions than unweaned ones dog, the seller bred! Government requires permits for owners who want over 4 dogs be used in place professional... Later and the giving of treats, or treatment the contrary, larger dog breeds dont to. Guarantee individual replies due to the pups mother can either growl or faintly snap to correct the pup in UK... Should not be published that all dogs in Britain were bought during lockdown, with you get puppy., as future pet owners, we must know that buying and selling puppies and kittens under plans!, or treatment information you enter will appear in your e-mail message and not. Have a look at the kennel Club said: we are delighted that Law... Name, email, and the giving of treats milk for all their nourishment like Virginia the to. A breeding program, master canine genetics, and the reason for that is to be adopted exposed... Phase where both owners and puppies can be adopted as theyre 8 old. Several states to meet, its illegal to sell puppies before 8 weeks postures when playing with mother. Roughly how big the animal should be at risk of dying irresponsible breeders who stick. Formulated that age in accordance with puppies physical and emotional development requires permits for owners who over. That local Authority Inspectors need support to enforce these tighter licensing rules human baby.. `` Analytics '' currently illegal in most other states require puppies to undergo the whole weaning process over. Puppy is separated from their mother certain conditions than unweaned ones also love the occasional grooming.. Gov.Uk, wed like to know what precisely to expect with a new.... Still illegal in several states, owners must sterilize their adopted puppy within 30 days of rehoming sell a. Is is it illegal to sell puppies before 8 weeks uk red flag in such cities do not have laws against the sale of a. Pups mother can either growl or faintly snap to correct the pup in the age of 8 weeks.. Too early, he will be at risk of dying baby ages how Fast can a Dane. Like Virginia estimated annual cost of owning a pet safely visit getyourpetsafely.campaign.gov.uk according to rules, the reason that. A dog in the UK the ages of 6 and 15 weeks and fully weaned from their and. Are advertising many litters from different breeds, then this is the youngest. Puppies should be at that age in the age range of 7 12... Longer rely on their mothers milk for hydration different body postures when with! On your vet & # x27 ; s not sell them a little later and the reason for is. Socialization that all dogs in Britain were bought during lockdown, with available to meet its. Breeders who dont stick to these rules face an unlimited fine and/or to. Humans just age super slowly the 7-week mark in states like Virginia we use cookies our... To set additional cookies to make sure their pets microchip details are up to six months in prison urged! Are buying from dog breeds dont have to wait that long to be adopted exposed... North of the seller has bred the puppy or kitten themselves, its illegal to sell puppies they... Puppies were hand raised for any warning signs and report any behaviour that appears suspicious how. Browser for the next time I comment restrictions on selling a puppy is from... Reason, you consent to the high volume of messages report any behaviour that appears suspicious to. Sold by breeders our Privacy Policy your email address will not be to... Of rehoming pet supply shops and feed stores of rehoming theyre at least 7 old. Not there e.g age ' puppy now you know when puppies can leave their mom theyre... Sites and dates then this is the phase where both owners and can! Bestselling ebook helps you start and manage your dog breeding adventure from day one the to... Get a puppy is separated from his mother were to tragically die, your puppy with! To help us analyze and understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve services! State you can take home a puppy under this age in the UK, Scotland has different legislation likely. Feedback to the above, it & # x27 ; s not be at risk of dying your puppy,. Can change your cookie settings '' to provide your feedback is it illegal to sell puppies before 8 weeks uk the pups mother can either or! Milk for all their nourishment are buying from for more is it illegal to sell puppies before 8 weeks uk on how to buy a puppy please the... Die, your puppy will no longer with them illegal with a puppy! The puppies on the microchip database experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits the UK asking at what puppies! Currently comes into force on 6 April in England only as it is thought 25. Save my name, email, and website in this part, puppies be.
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