Parade Pets

Finding something unexpected at the thrift is one thing, and being blessed by the cat distribution system is another. But what happens when both things occur simultaneously?

Something, for lack of a better word, really, really good.

😻 #goodwill #goodwillfind #goodwillfinds #kitten

Thrifter and reseller Emily Miller recently took to social media to share a kitten who had been abandonded at Miller’s local Goodwill. A manager of the store alerted Miller to the kitten’s presence, and she quickly went to assess the situation. What she found was a tiny, baby kitten who was so eager to be found and loved.

When Miller spoke to her husband, they both agreed that the little one was coming home. And bigger than that? They agreed they had the perfect name for her: Goody.

In the viral video, commenters gushed over the kitten’s sweet personality and eagerness to go home with Miller. We are also so happy she found a home and a happy ending after being abandonded at the donation site!

Mariia Zotova / Getty Images

While it can be tempting to swoop in and bring what appears to be an abandonded kitten, it’s actually very important to be more mindful and patient if you find yourself in this situation. Keeping the kitten out of danger and making sure its mother isn’t nearby looking for it is the first step. A kitten that appears healthy is likely being cared for by its mom, and that mama cat may need assessing and help, too.

If taking the kitten into your care, the first thing you should always do is make sure they are warm enough. Kittens can struggle to regulate their body temperatures, which can be very dangerous for them. It’s also important to take them to see a vet as soon as possible for an actual medical assessment.

Once you’ve consulted with a professional, at that point you can begin to acclimate the kitten to their new home. And hopefully begin a great life journey together!

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Related: Rare Maine Coon Kitten Looks Like the Perfect Bowl of Sherbet

While consistently higher temps signal that summer isn’t quite done with us, every home decor store is consistently screaming that fall is definitely on the horizon. From doggie skeletons gracing shelves to adorable Halloween-themed toys, retailers have something for everyone in the family.

Everyone’s favorite wholesaler has been stocking the shelves with Halloween decor since early August, displaying both cute and creepy porch adornments. If your Halloween displays lean more toward cozy and charming, Costco’s precious Halloween Dog Greeters will be an immediate add to cart.

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The wholesome Halloween Dog Greeters are crafted with the sweetest cozy Halloween details. You have three resin pups to choose from: a Frenchie, Doodle, or Cocker Spaniel, which makes the decision-making process very difficult since all three are endearing in their own right.

The Doodle will look precious guarding any entrance, whether it’s your front door or your walkway, with his black-and-orange witch hat. Around his shoulders sits a black collar adorned with an orange trim and bow. To complete this sweet pup’s look, a jack-o’-lantern sits between his front paws.

Related: Shoppers Spotted an Aldi Pumpkin That’s the Adorable Halloween Surprise Every Dog Deserves

The gray Frenchie has a similar appearance, with one ear sticking out from under a black witch hat that is complete with a purple band and gold buckle. Unlike the Doodle, his collar is primarily purple with black around both the bottom and the top. His black bow adds a finishing touch to his look along with the cheerful jack-o’-lantern that sits between his two front paws.

The cheeky Cocker Spaniel is my personal favorite. This little troublemaker is equal parts sugar and spice with a winsome expression topped off with a pair of bright red devil horns. This cutie patootie holds a jack-o’-lantern trick-or-treat pail in her mouth with bats fluttering on either side of the guard’s smile. That isn’t the only little spooky extra on this pup. While her counterparts had hearty collars, she has a cape with flaming edges and a red spider gracing the collar by the bow.

All three of the dog greeters stand 26-inches tall and weigh 10.5-pounds, making them easy to move around as needed. They can be used inside or outside in a covered area, which is perfect for any dog lover’s front door. Each pup has a hand-painted finish, giving it lifelike features. These adorable creatures are sure to sell out quickly. Check online to see if your local Costco carries them in-store or order one for delivery to your home.

Related: Target’s New $5 Dog Toy Is Bringing Spooky Fun to Playtime

Sphynx cats do not get enough love. I’ve only met one in my whole life, but she was a total sweetheart, and more than that, she was so much less messy than your typical cat! Sphynx cats are all the fun of a regular cat, without a million hairs in your mouth!

One rare and stunning Calico Sphynx cat recently became a mom, and she’s making it everyone’s problem. She loves her new babies so much that she keeps trying to knead them into little bald biscuits:

🤷‍♀️😭😭😭😂😂 #sphynxoftiktok #hairlesscat #fyp #viral #spyhynxtok

The Unique Sphynxes certainly are very unique! I’ve never seen a Calico Sphynx cat before! I didn’t even think that was possible. It is, though: Mama has spots of orange, black, and white all over her.

Exactly what food they’re most like is heavily debated: she’s obviously making biscuits out of her babies in this clip. However, most of the comments are saying she’s like a chicken breast who gave birth to tiny chicken nuggets.

Related: Sphynx-Mix Kitten Has the Silkiest Body and Tiniest Ears

This mama cat loves trying to knead her kittens, and anything else she can get her paws on. She’s just a biscuit girl! The only thing she loves more than her kittens is her mama:

Kiki do you love me 😂 #sphynxoftiktok #hairlesscat #fyp #viral #spyhynxtok

This is the sweetest thing I’ve ever seen. Her kittens may be going off to their forever homes soon, but Kiki is here to stay, and thank goodness for that. They need each other!

When you see Kiki, an amazing Calico Sphynx cat, your brain might assume that this is actually what all cats would look like if they didn’t have any hair. If you shave a Calico Maine Coon, for example, would they look like this?!

Svetlana Repnitskaya / Getty Images

No, a shaved Maine Coon doesn’t have the same color of their coat underneath. Sphynx cats are different colors because they carry pigment in their skin rather than only in their fur Sphynx cats can be a variety of colors, including:

• Calico
• Tortoiseshell
• Black
• Cinnamon
• Tabby.

Who knew there were so many varieties of this adorable, hairless breed?! I love them all, but I think Kiki and her babies will always have a special place in my heart!

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Every now and then, a cat comes along who’s so iconic, it’s only right the world stops to admire them in all their majesty. I’m not talking about the already-blessed cat breeds like Maine Coons or Ragdolls, but an everyday Tabby cat who happens to be the size of a small planet. Once you lay your eyes on “Big Poppa,” no other “chubby” kitty will compare.

Big poppa 😍#fyp #bigboy #thick #kittycat #catsoftiktok

May the heavens bless @aleshia13131 for sharing this absolute unit with the world. The plus-sized Tabby cat is more Big Poppa than The Notorious B.I.G. himself, so it’s only fair he gets the respect his majesty deserves.

The brief clip is just enough of a teaser into the world of this chunky monkey, but I assure you—this big boy is every bit as humongous as he appears here.

Related: Humongous Foster Cat Who Looks Like Emma Stone Is Our New Orange Queen

In a world full of AI-generated “fat” cats for clicks, Big Poppa is the real deal. He’s loud, proud, and full of treats.

Please, a moment of silence for this hefty, hunky, husky son of a gun who’s breaking the mold with his quiet confidence:

Big Poppa #fyp #big #catsoftiktok #thick #damn

For all the other XXL cats out there, let this guy be your guide. Not a care in the world, hydrated, happy, flourishing, and thriving. Respect.

Big Poppa is an extreme example of what a “large” cat can look like. Most domesticated kitties who don’t love food quite as much (or are more active with healthy metabolisms) usually only weigh around 8 to 10 pounds, give or take. It’s not uncommon for some big breed cats to reach 25 pounds or more (like fluffy Ragdolls or Maine Coons), stretching more than 40 inches long. Now that’s HUGE!

Some breeds, also like Maine Coons, hold world record titles in length, with one measuring more than 4 feet. That’s the size of a human child! Other rarer hybrid breeds, like Savannah cats, can easily reach 17 or 18 inches tall, and it’s all thanks to their African Serval DNA.

It really doesn’t matter what Mr. Beefcake up above does from here on out. He’s large, in charge, and stealing hearts. We’re definitely *not* worthy!

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Some dogs are large, in charge, and impossibly adorable. The special pups who also have massive amounts of “floof” and the kind of gentle, sweet disposition that makes everyone fall head over heels with everything they do, are the internet’s champs and we thank them for their service.

There’s no greater example of all these things (and more) than a Bernese Mountain Dog named Franklin. In all his 112 pounds of cute boy energy, there’s one thing the funny boy seems to lack: a general understanding that he’s alive.

Franklin says hi

As dog mom to a Franklin of my own, I’ve found pups with the moniker all have one thing in common: a general confusion about literally everything! The clip shared by @yournewfriendfranklin is pretty much every Bernese Mountain Dog in a nutshell. Franklin has become synonymous with the phrase “not a thought behind those eyes,” and his more than 72k TikTok fans have been obsessed since his first post.

“Does he know he exists?” one person joked in the comments, and we’d have to say categorically, no, we don’t think he does (and it only makes him more adorable)!

Related: Bernese Mountain Dog Crushes ‘First Days as Big Brother’ in Adorable Clip

In April 2025, Franklin made his TikTok debut as a 10-week-old puppy and even then, you can tell he was destined to be a big boy. In a post 2 weeks later, Mom shared just how gigantic he’d become in such a short time.

This little fluff monster is seriously one of the cutest dogs on the planet, but all that puppy energy is *a lot*! He’s so big, he nearly weighs Mom down as she tries to hold him:

He’s huge lol #bernesemountaindog #bernesemountaindogpuppy #puppygrowth #12weekoldberner

As huge as Franklin was at 12 weeks, please take a look at a previous post (as seen here) that shows his growth at 23 weeks. Your jaw will be on the floor!

Dogs like Franklin are bred and built to work, which means yes—they can grow to be pretty big as a full-grown adult.

The American Kennel Club notes that male Bernese Mountain Dogs can reach heights of up to 27 inches at the shoulder and 70 to 115 pounds, or more, while girly-girls have smaller heads and grow upwards of 23 to 26 inches tall and 70 -95 pounds. The boys are noticeably bigger with many describing them as blocky, burly, stocky, and all-around big pooches!

Gabriel Dominella / Getty Images

Like all puppies, most of a Berner’s growth happens throughout the first few months as they don’t reach full maturity until 12 to 18 months of age. They can put on 2 pounds a week and that adds up fast!

Experts note that they continue filling in with weight and chest breadth up to around 3 years old. That means dear Franklin still has time to get even heavier, fluffier, and more confused about his existence and we’ll be right here waiting for every “pupdate!”

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Kittens are adorable, regardless of breed. Whether it’s a Persian, Scottish Fold, Himalayan, or cross-breed kitty, each feline fur baby has that over-the-top cuteness and insatiable curiosity. Some kittens are especially expressive and can exude certain moods or emotions with one simple glance.

Each fur baby in this litter of Maine Coon kittens has the trademark lush coat and piercing eyes the breed is known for, yet they all look like they got up on the wrong side of the bed.

Cute enough to get away with wearing half his dinner on his face. 😂🖤 #mainecoonkitten #mossycottagemainecoons #blackcatmagic #mainecoonlovers #fyp

In the TikTok from @mossycottagemainecoons, each kitten was held up one by one to show off their unique charm. The pretty kitties are almost two months old and already becoming a handful.

“7 weeks old today… and this is about the last week I can hold them like this,” the caption shared.

Each kitten had lush, cloud-like fur with colors ranging from black, gray, calico, and striped. The kittens were easy to tell apart, yet they all had the same sleepy, glazed-over look on their face, almost like that had put in a full-day’s work plus overtime. The entire litter of felines gave off a certain cute yet crotchety vibe and managed to look young and old at the same time.

Followers fell in love with the fur babies and noted their somewhat mature aura:

• “Why do Maine Coon kittens already look like full grown Vikings?” one asked.
• “They look like old sages in a baby’s bodies,” another pointed out.
• “He looks so grumpy and gorgeous,” a follower remarked.  
• “And every morning they grab their pick axes and go to the mine,” someone joked.
• “Why do they look like they’re so old? Like just got off a 60-hour work week old?” a fan inquired.

Certain cats may have that “resting grouch face”, yet that doesn’t mean they’re in a bad mood. Brachycephalic breeds like Persians and Himalayans may have that grumpy look due to their flat faces, big eyes, and large foreheads affecting how they want to communicate their true feelings.

Related: Maine Coon Cat’s Fresh Haircut Makes Him Look Like He’s Wearing Fur Boots

Studies show that cats express themselves in ways that can be misinterpreted. The slow blink and closed eyes of a cat actually means trust and contentment rather than aloofness. That dismissive squint is actually a compliment, meaning they feel safe with you.

These are just a few examples of how cats sometimes get a bad rap for being cranky when they’re really just a little different in communication style. These Maine Coon kittens are all adorable and probably just need another nap.

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Most dogs love to play. There are occasional exceptions, but even grumpy dogs will want to play sometimes. You just have to find the right method and, most importantly, the right toy.

One Bernese Mountain Dog doesn’t actually need any toys at all to play, and he’ll play at any time of the day, too. Like in the morning, when his mom is trying to have her coffee and his sister is just trying to mind her business:

Bum in the air, play bows activated, and absolutely ZERO respect for Jade’s peaceful morning 🤪 #berner #bernesemountaindog #bernese

Alfie and Jade are a hilarious Bernese Mountain Dog pair. In case this video didn’t make their dynamic clear, Jade is the older sister: she’s a little over a year older than Alfie, who was born in March of last year. He’s still a puppy! That explains a lot!

He’s lucky that Jade is a morning dog, and that she’s used to his antics by now. If he pulled that with my girl dog, she would have taken his nose right off. His play bow is just too cute to resist! How can you not give in to that?!

Related: Adorable ‘Cheese-Dusted’ Bernedoodle Puppies Look Like Fluffy Little Angels

The two of them love each other… Most of the time. Alfie really never quits this whole “I want to play all the time” thing! When they play-wrestle, which they do often, they kind of look like two grizzly bears:

Some people get a second dog so the first one has a friend. This is what that looks like 😂 #BerneseMountainDog #berner #bernese

I can’t stop laughing. Speaking from experience, I can tell there are times Jade looks at her mom like, “You know, I was a perfectly happy only child…” But of course, there are other times when she couldn’t survive without her brother.

Playing with your dog is super important to keeping them happy and healthy, but you have to be careful: if you don’t play how they like to play, they will be getting mad at you! Bernese Mountain Dogs are very particular.

Jennifer A Smith / Getty Images

Bernese Mountain Dogs are big dogs with lots of energy to burn. They were built for working on farms, pulling carts and helping out. While they’ll love a good squeaky toy or chewy bone, they especially love:

• Games of fetch.
• Puzzles.
• Hikes.
• Runs.

They love physical activity that mentally challenges them. A hike on some rougher terrain? Chef’s kiss. Chasing them around your yard like they owe you money? Absolutely. Don’t worry, though: as Alfie shows, they’ll let you know when they want to play.

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In a perfect world, no dogs would ever end up in shelters at all. In a slightly less perfect but still kind one, shelter dogs would find their forever homes, and that would be forever. Unfortunately, though, we don’t live in a perfect world. Not even close.

Shelter dogs sometimes find a home, and it doesn’t end up being forever. People return shelter dogs more often than you might think! That’s what happened to this sweet pup, but she’s not letting it or anything else get her down:

We won’t give up on you Puddin❤️‍🩹 Please press every button to help boost this video so it ends up on the right FYP🐾🤞 ‼️MORE INFO BELOW‼️ Age: 5 years, 4 months Sex: Female Breed: German Shepherd cross Size: Pudding weighs about 30kg. Can live with: Pudding needs to be the only dog in her new home. About me Pudding came in on the 15th of April after her previous owner passed away. Pudding is a friendly, affectionate girl once she knows you but can be very shy and worried at first, especially with men. She is quite anxious out and about and we feel that she may not have experienced much in her previous home. She is looking for a patient owner who will allow her to progress at her own pace, Pudding will need someone who is prepared to put time into her training and socialising and has had some experience with larger breeds. Pudding lived with her mum in her previous home but it was an unhealthy relationship. She will need to be the only dog in her new home. Pudding will need her own garden and is looking for an adult only home. Anyone wishing to adopt her will need to be prepared to make a few visits to the shelter to get to know her before taking her home. She is looking for a quiet home environment and would not suit a really urban area. #gsd #germanshepherd #adoptdontshop #gsdoftiktok #cutedog

The RSPCA Brighton is devastated for poor Pudding, a shy and loving German Shepherd cross. They truly thought she’d found forever this time, only for her to be returned to the shelter shortly after being adopted. They didn’t say exactly why, just that the last home was unhealthy.

Pudding is about 5 years old, and she’s a little shy when you first meet her, but she warms up quickly. They say she’d do best as the only dog in her forever home, and that men in particular make Pudding a little anxious.

Related: Shelter Pup Who ‘Just Needs a Friend’ Is the Sweetest Boy Alive

Puddin’ is currently located at RSPCA Brighton in England, which means that it would be a little bit difficult for any US-based families to adopt her. However, her video reached a ton of people closer to her! She was able to have a first meeting with a couple a few days ago. In the meantime, they’re keeping her occupied:

Poor homeless dog Pudding struggles in kennels so we try to give her as much time with us as possible in the day. Our girl met a lovely couple so keep your fingers crossed they decide to adopt her! #germanshepherd #shepherd #bulldog #staffy #bulldogs

She’s having fun in the meantime, at least. I’m crossing my fingers and toes that the couple she met with decides she’s the right fit and that she gets to go to her forever home soon!

Unfortunately, Pudding’s situation isn’t a rare one. Animals are returned to shelters semi-frequently, and dogs in particular are victims of this pretty often. Pudding was only in her home for a few months before being returned.

NataKor / Getty Images

There are a lot of reasons why a family may return a dog to a shelter. Adopting a dog can be incredibly overwhelming, and the dog might be:

• Scared.
• Defensive.
• Closed off.
• More rambunctious than they thought.
• Having medical issues they weren’t prepared for.
• More expensive than expected.

Many dogs are returned to the shelter they came from within weeks of getting adopted. It happens when they’re still settling down, before they’ve had a chance to decompress. People see this dog acting differently than they expected, and they want to take it back.

It’s devastating, but hopefully, it won’t ever happen to poor Pudding again!

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Whenever you’re feeling down, it’s always nice when a friend or family member gives you a pep talk or says something to you that lifts your mood. So, as a dog parent, it makes sense that you’d want to do the same for your furbaby. But since you and your pup speak different languages, it can be tricky to know what you can say to pump them up. To help you out, we rounded up 7 words and phrases that’ll hype your dog up and make them feel happy and confident, according to experts.

“One thing I always like to clarify is that dogs don’t understand hype phrases exactly the way people do,” says veterinarian Dr. Sarah Wooten. “What they respond to is association.”

Dogs learn what sounds predict, and when those sounds consistently lead to something fun or positive, they can become powerful excitement triggers. As a result, your pup might have an extensive vocabulary that includes plenty of terms that make them feel good when they hear them. So while your dog might not understand every word you say, they’re definitely listening.

Once you know what words dogs likes to hear, as a dog mom or dad, you’ll be able to be more mindful of the things you say to your furry companion and your dog communication will get better. You’ll also find that your human-dog bond will grow and you’ll feel closer to your dog than ever.

Here are seven words and phrases that can send your pup into full-on happy mode.

Related: 4 Key Personality Traits of Pet Parents Born in September

Getty Images Tom Werner

We bet you use this dog-friendly word a lot, especially when you are going to bring your pup out on a walk. So while saying, “ready?” might sound like a throwaway word to you, to your dog it signals an adventure.

Maybe you say it before grabbing a leash or tossing a ball in the yard. Whatever comes next, your dog starts connecting the word with the fun that follows. That’s why it’s a happy word for your pup and makes them light up from the inside out.

“Dogs are excellent at picking up patterns, so a short, upbeat word like this can become a signal that something exciting is about to happen,” Wooten says.

If “ready?” is followed by your dog spinning in circles, don’t be surprised. They’ve figured it out and it’s a word your dog loves to hear.

“Let’s go!” may be one of the simplest things you say to your dog as a pet parent, but for many pups, it can instantly signal that something exciting is about to happen.

Whether you’re heading to the park or getting ready for a car ride, the phrase can create anticipation while making your pup feel included. It’s also a great example of how dogs respond to praise, familiar cues, and positive associations with their people. So, if your pup seems to be feeling sad, try saying this word to boost their mood.

“Many dogs love being invited into action with their person, whether that means leaving for a walk or starting an adventure,” Wooten says. “This phrase can build excitement because it tells the dog they’re part of what happens next.”

If you want to know how to make your dog happy, for many dogs, this is one of the most exciting phrases you can say. After all, dogs like walks because they aren’t just about exercise. They’re an opportunity to sniff, explore, investigate the neighborhood and spend time with their favorite human, you! This makes the phrase “Want to go for a walk?” especially powerful when it’s repeatedly followed by plenty of sensory goodness.

“Even before the leash comes out, many dogs learn that those words mean the world is about to get more interesting,” Wooten explains.

Once a word consistently predicts something exciting, hearing itcan trigger anticipation on its own. “This is why your dog can go from asleep to zoomies the second you say ‘walk,’ even before you’ve moved toward the door,” adds Mia Enos Gray, certified dog trainer and founder of Doggie Dreamz Dog Training.

Say these three words to your dog, and you might get an immediate tail-wagging response.

“Want to play?” is a phrase that can get dogs excited because play is both physically and socially rewarding.  It’s also one of those things you can say to your dog that can become a cue for fun, attention and connection.

“Tug, fetch, chase games and training games all strengthen the human-animal bond,” Wooten says. “When this phrase reliably predicts fun interaction, dogs may respond with barking, bouncing, tail wagging or running to find a toy.”

Related: 7 Strange Dog Behaviors That Are Secretly Love Signals, Say Trainers

Want to make your dog feel extra loved? This phrase will do it pretty much each time you say it as it lets them know you want to spend time with them. How sweet is that?

Instead of simply handing your dog a favorite toy, asking “Where’s your toy?” invites them to participate. They might search the room, or race toward their toy basket.

“Many dogs enjoy retrieving, carrying or searching for toys, and this phrase gives them a job to do,” Wooten says. “It can build confidence because the dog gets to be successful and engage with their person.”

That little bit of problem-solving can make the game even more rewarding for your pup.

Bonding with your dog is as easy as using positive reinforcement, verbal praise. Because of this, sometimes the hype phrase you use doesn’t need to announce what’s coming next. Sometimes it’s simply about telling your dog they absolutely nailed it.

“Dogs may not understand approval in the same abstract way humans do, but they absolutely understand positive feedback,” Wooten explains. “Said warmly and enthusiastically, this phrase can boost confidence and reinforce behavior.”

However, remember that delivery matters, too. Your dog is paying attention to your tone and body language, so a genuinely happy “good dog!” can carry a lot more meaning than a monotone compliment.

Did you know this is perhaps the most universally powerful word in the canine dictionary?For food-motivated dogs, the word “treat” can produce an immediate response from your pup because the payoff to them is super clear.

“Food is a strong reinforcer for many dogs, which is why this word quickly becomes associated with something enjoyable to them,” Wooten says.

That doesn’t mean you should turn “treat” into a constant bargaining tool. Used thoughtfully, food can reinforce behaviors you want to see while keeping training positive and engaging.

Ultimately, the magic isn’t in the specific word. It’s in what your dog learns that word means. “The best hype words are clear, consistent and paired with things the individual dog truly enjoys,” Wooten states.

Dr. Sarah Wooten, veterinarian

Mia Enos Gray, certified dog trainer and founder of Doggie Dream

Fall is here, and so are those chilly, scenic walks with your dog. While cooler weather typically means you don’t need to fret over your dog overheating, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to look out for as the temperature drops and the leaves change. As with any season, fall brings its own share of pros and cons when it comes to caring for your dog. The crisp air, colorful leaves and cozy sweater weather make it one of the most beloved seasons for pet parents and their pups alike, but those idyllic fall walks aren’t completely danger-free.

Regardless of the season, dog walks should always come with a bit of caution. Between looking out for debris and trash on the street and animals or pests that may follow you home, you should be aware of your dog’s health post-walk. Fall adds its own twist to this routine, layering fresh seasonal hazards on top of the usual ones.

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Experts warn that autumn brings new elements of nature that can affect your dog’s health, many of which are easy to miss until they’ve already caused a problem. To help reduce the risks, you should get in the habit of checking your dog after fall walks to catch issues early and prevent bigger, more expensive problems down the line.

To help you navigate potential fall dangers, we spoke with an expert to clear the air before your next walk. Here’s exactly how to check your dog’s paws after walks and what to look for to help keep them safe this season.

RichardSilveraCichero / Getty Images

It can be easy to get confused about what actually to look out for after your autumnal walks, but you don’t need to be overwhelmed. Dr. Louisa Sidwa, the lead veterinarian partner at CityVet – Rockwall, says your dog’s paws should be the focus of your search for potential hazards.

Any foreign object is always the first concern when checking your dog post-walk. Dr. Sidwa suggests checking your dog’s paws for elements like acorns, burrs and pine needles that may get stuck during your walk. Stones or broken glass are other items worth searching for too. While you’ll mostly find these things on their paws, it doesn’t hurt to take a quick scan of their fur too. It’s just as easy for them to get tangled in a dog’s coat as it is for a dog to lick or bite at it later. These hard items may hurt a dog’s teeth and cause even more damage if ingested.

Related: Vets Warn Late Summer Is Peak Tick Season—Here’s What Most Dog Owners Don’t Know

rbkomar / Getty Images

Acorns, burrs and pine needles make up the beauty of the fall landscape. However, they may also pose some of the most significant dangers to your furry friend. Dr. Sidwa warns that acorns, if ingested, may cause gastrointestinal problems or even choking. Even if they’re just bitten, hard acorns may severely damage a dog’s teeth.

Burrs and pine needles can also be bothersome for pets, especially when buried in their fur. Burrs can work their way into the gaps between toes and cause irritation, pain and puncture wounds. Left uncleaned, those puncture wounds may become infected over time. Pine needles carry a similar risk, causing irritation and puncture wounds of their own.

Because these items are often small, they can be hard to spot while walking through leaf-covered areas, making it best to avoid debris-filled streets whenever possible.

Natalia Lebedinskaia / Getty Images

While these dangers may sound scary, a quick and easy post-walk paw cleaning routine may help prevent these health hazards from wreaking havoc in the first place.

Dr. Sidwa recommends starting by gently wiping down each paw after your walk. This removes any loose debris, making it easier to examine for more dangerous items. Afterward, spend extra time inspecting each toe and paw pad. Remove any foreign object that can be easily dislodged with tools or your hand. However, if something is too embedded, it’s best to seek veterinary care. The final step is to dry the paws thoroughly, which helps keep their toe beans healthy and clean.

Checking your dog’s paws after a walk might feel like an extra step, but it’s one that only takes a few minutes and can provide long-term relief and peace of mind. Even though fall brings plenty of beauty and charm, it doesn’t mean there are no dangers for you to look out for. Taking a few extra precautions to keep your dog’s paws and fur clean will help keep them healthy and safe, and may help you avoid an expensive trip to the vet later down the road.

• Dr. Louisa Sidwa is the lead veterinarian partner at CityVet – Rockwall. 

Related: 3 Things You Should Never Do When Walking Your Dog in the Dark This Fall

Keeping your space organized is a constant chore. Add pets to the equation, and suddenly that chore becomes a daily task that requires even more upkeep. That’s why smart storage solutions are such a lifesaver, offering practical ways to get more out of your space while keeping essentials within reach and easy to access.

Fortunately, Aldi just announced a restock of one of its most popular creative storage solutions: the Kirkton House Collapsible Closet Bin. Hitting stores on Wednesday, Sept. 9 in two colors, this $17 home upgrade is perfect for corralling all your pet essentials in one sleek, compact space.

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Aldi

Meant for just about any and all of your storage needs, this compact closet organizer easily performs well beyond its intended purpose. And with both Diamond (white) and Fluted (black) options to choose from, it can also blend in with a wide range of decor styles. Toss it in your closet, garage, bathroom, pantry or back porch and use it to keep items within reach that you otherwise wouldn’t want scattered around the house.

At $16.99 per bin, you get a sturdy, collapsible piece that stands roughly 12 inches tall, 12.29 inches long and 12.20 inches wide, making it perfect for pet cleaning supplies, extra bowls, toys, treats, food, and more. And with dual top and front access built into its design, you have even more flexibility when deciding where to store it. Best of all, its lockable door handles can help keep curious furballs from getting inside while you’re not around.

Related: This New York Times Best Furniture Crate Winner Looks Right at Home With Minimalist and Boho Decor

Aldi

Where these bins really impress, however, is in their stackable design and removable wheels. Purchase them in pairs, and you can effectively make better use of vertical space or use their mobile function to easily transport items from room to room. Plus, when they’re not in use, the bins can collapse down flat and be tucked away without taking up too much space.

Whether you snatch one (or two) up for yourself or your furry friend, you’ll find plenty of ways to put this versatile storage solution to use. And with no tools required for assembly, it’s easy to set up and use immediately. 

Keep your eyes peeled for it upon arrival on Sept. 9, and while you’re there, check out Aldi’s Carved Wood Cat Candle and Orange Boucle Pumpkin Cushion for more pet-adjacent essentials.

Related: Target’s $14 Halloween Essential Is a Must-Have for Tough Chewers

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you want the wild birds who visit your back yard to enjoy the bougie life, then this low-cost solar fountain from Amazon will do the trick. The Mademax Solar Bird Bath Fountain is just $17. And for such a low price, you can essentially turn any bird bath into a sparkling spa delight.

This fountain is marked as a “#1 best seller” on Amazon in the “water garden & pond pumps” category. And there’s a great reason it’s so popular. The fountain only needs to be in direct sunlight for about three seconds before it starts spraying water from 4 to 27.5 inches in height, depending on the setting you choose. It doesn’t need any electricity or batteries.

It has four adjustable brackets to avoid random movement in the bird bath. And it comes with eight nozzles, allowing you to choose the fountain pattern of your preference. If your bird bath is extra small, you can even run it without any nozzles, simply using bubble mode.

Courtesy of Amazon

Buyers appreciate this fountain for its ease of use and functionality. Just note: the height and strength of the spray depends not only on the type of nozzle you use, but also on how sunny it is that day. The fountain needs to be in direct sunlight to run.

Check out some of the 5-star reviews left on Amazon:

• “It’s a very easy, economical way to add some splash to a bird bath.”
• “Mine is in a bird bath bowl and I use rocks around it for the birds to perch which also keeps it in place. It works quite well.”
• “Super easy to set up. Very powerful stream! I couldn’t put in any of the heads because they were spraying outside the bird bath that’s how strong it was! In full sunlight it blasts really tall.”

One buyer noted that the filter can get clogged depending on where it’s placed. So if your fountain stops working in direct sunlight, just clean the pump. (They recommend using YouTube videos for step-by-step instructions.)

Amazon is offering free delivery on orders shipped by Amazon of over $35, or free delivery for Prime members. Amazon’s also offering free 30-day refunds and replacements.

Related: Amazon’s Squeezable Hairball Treats Are Turning Cat Parents Into ‘Lifelong Customers’

My dog is always doing adorable things (as dogs do), but one of my favorite things is when she acts out her dreams. Sometimes, I’ll look over at her while she’s sleeping, and her little paws are going like she’s chasing a ball. What could be cuter?

Richie the Mini Goldendoodle puppy also has this habit, and in this video captured by his humans, his paws are moving in a way that makes it look like he’s actually dancing.

Sweet baby🥰 #dogsoftiktok #puppy #minigoldendoodle #trending #dog

With his head propped up on a metal bar underneath a cabinet, I can’t imagine how Richie could possibly be comfortable, but somehow, he is… and comfortable enough to have a pretty involved dream, at that.

His paws keep moving like the tiniest tippy taps, as if he’s dreaming about doing a little dance. Just by looking at how cute this sweet baby is, I don’t doubt he’d be a good dancer, too!

If only he could let us know what he was actually dreaming about when he wakes up…

Related: Tiny Goldendoodle Hailed a Hero for Bravely Saving His Family From Fire

It’s true: Dogs and puppies do actually dream, so what Richie was doing in the video above really was a result of whatever was happening in his dream at that moment.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), dogs go through different sleep cycles the same way that humans do, including REM sleep — or the time when the most vivid dreams take place.

Dobrila Vignjevic / Getty Images

If you catch your puppy moving in their sleep a bit like Richie was, it’s because their pons is still developing. The pons is part of the brain stem that is associated with deep sleep, so when it’s not quite complete, your puppy is more likely to dream so actively that you can probably guess what they might be dreaming about.

Per the AKC, researchers have discovered that when dogs are dreaming, it’s about “doggy things,” so they’re probably dreaming about running around outside, playing with a favorite toy, or even being with their favorite human (you, of course).

Hopefully Richie didn’t wear himself out too much with all that dreaming. Whatever it was about, it looked fun!

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Senior animals in shelters are less likely to get adopted due to potential health issues and limited life span. Yet these dogs and cats in their elder years still have so much love left to give and deserve to live the rest of their days with a loving family.

Smooch the 19-year-old cat was recently brought to the NAWS Humane Society and hopes to get the chance at happiness she truly deserves.

Apologies in advance for all the sniffling 🫩😭 This morning was rough. I knew that Smooch was a special girl, but we really bonded today during the short amount of time we had together. Smooch is very new to our facility and we are still waiting on bloodwork to come back, but we would love to find someone who would be willing to open their heart and home to Smooch sooner than later. She deserves to have her happy ending. If you have any questions about Smooch, please feel free to message me and I will do my best to respond ASAP! If you are serious about adopting Smooch please submit a cat adoption application at nawsus.org under the tab “adoption center”. Im sending you guys all of my love, thank you for allowing me to share Smooch and for allowing me to be vulnerable with you all. I love you guys with my whole entire heart. 🥹🥹🫂🤍 #cat #adoptdontshop #catsoftiktok #catadoption #adopt

The TikTok from @franflight told Smooch’s story and shared how the feline fur baby longs for love.

“Smooch is 19 years old and starting her life over,” the on-screen text explained as the shelter staff member cuddled with the sweet kitty. “She doesn’t need much, and she showed that to me today.”

The senior cat drank in every ounce of affection the staff member showered her with, clearly content to just be held.

“All she needs is someone to choose her, someone to keep her company,” the story continued. “Someone out there is going to be the last person she loves.”

Older cats acclimate very easily to adoptive families. Benefits of bringing home a senior kitty include:

• More predictable and established personality, meaning what you see is what you get.
• Very low-maintenance compared to kittens and younger cats.
• Litter and scratch-post trained.

When adopting a senior cat, you’re saving a life and giving them a new beginning. These feline fur babies show their love and gratitude in spades and make the most wonderful family members.

Related: Senior Cat Claims Golden Retriever Puppy’s ‘Bedroom’ As His Own, and Paws Fly

NAWS staff members rave over Smooch’s sweet and gentle personality, and are committed to finding her a forever home.

“I knew that Smooch was a special girl, but we really bonded today during the short amount of time we had together,” the caption shared. “Smooch is very new to our facility and we are still waiting on bloodwork to come back, but we would love to find someone who would be willing to open their heart and home to Smooch sooner than later.”

The video concluded with a final plea to potential pet parents: “Please consider adopting a senior cat. We love you, Smooch.”

For more information on Smooch or the NAWS Humane Society, please visit their website.

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Golden Retrievers tend to get a very good rap. They deserve it: these are incredibly family-oriented dogs who train hard and, most of the time, do what they’re told. Key word: most. There will be plenty of times when even the best-trained Golden Retriever thinks they know better than their humans.

One Golden Retriever recently received a pretty interesting jail sentence. He got caught one too many times in Mom’s garden, and she was officially sick of it. She decided to put him in “face jail” for his crimes, and to be honest, I think she might have just started a new fall trend:

He only wore it for the video before people lose their minds 😂 #colin #goldens

Sterling and Colin are brothers, and the two of them love nothing more than getting in trouble together. They do it all the time, except this time, it was something that directly affected their mom.

She works hard on her garden, and one of the brothers in particular (cough, cough, Colin) kept getting into it and eating up all of her plants. Naturally, she decided to put him in face jail so he couldn’t access the plants…

Just kidding! Though it looks great on him, and he seemed to enjoy it quite a bit, she only had it on him for the video. The solution to the problem is to dog-proof the garden, not garden-proof the dog!

Related: Golden Retriever Thinks the Ocean Is ‘Out to Get Him’ and It Proves Him Right in the Funniest Way

This is not the first time Colin has had to wear a slightly ridiculous hat. In fact, not even close! He tends to have a rough time with all of the noise at the groomer, and his outfit there is a bit silly, too:

He’s definitely packing his bags and moving to Grandma’s 😂 #serls #goldenretriever

As the caption says, he’s packing up and moving to Grandma’s. He’s hoping for two things there: fewer ridiculous hats and an equally yummy garden. If he can get that, he’s golden!

If you have dogs yourself, or a garden that neighborhood dogs can get into with relative ease, you need some help. Leaving it wide open means that they’re going to get in and go to town, even if you provide of the food they could possibly need.

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

The best way to keep dogs out of your garden is to fence it off and make it inaccessible. That will also help keep it safe from other animals, including deer, raccoons, or even cats who might try to use it as a litter box! If that’s not possible, though, you can try:

• Only letting them outside under your supervision.
• Putting up temporary netting.
• Using scent deterrents, like apple cider vinegar, around the perimeter of the garden bed.

Training will be key here, too: ultimately, being told to “leave it” will be enough for most dogs, especially if you stay consistent in not letting them near the plants. Or, apparently, face jail is also an option…

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I have three Boston Terriers, and I must admit that I’m partial to them. However, they’re not rare by any means: you can find these pups anywhere you look. When it comes to what pups I love to see, I’m partial to the rarer breeds. The ones you don’t see every day, even if they’re not technically rare.

For example, Clumber Spaniels. Not enough people talk about Clumber Spaniels, even though they’re some of the most underrated dogs in the world. Like these pups who got caught on camera running through the yard and captured everyone’s hearts:

My favorite thing: Clumber puppies. From today’s play date with the girls #clumberspaniel #clumber #clumberpuppy #clumberpuppies

The House of Slobber has so many Clumber Spaniel puppies, and it’s awesome. The pups are big, bumbly, and super playful. They don’t just specialize in Clumber Spaniels, though: they also have Saint Bernards. All of their dogs and puppies are raised in-home, and they love to play together.

According to the caption, all of the Clumber Spaniel puppies in this video are girls! They have huge heads, which is part of what makes the breed as a whole so charming. Their pups are also known for being super silly, and who doesn’t love a silly little ray of sunshine?

Related: Clumber Spaniel’s Protest Over Bath Routine Turns Into the Cutest Chaos

The puppies in this video are bigger now, but when they were first born, they were so tiny and squishy! They’ll be off to their forever homes soon, but before it’s time to say goodbye, we have to take a minute and appreciate them in all of their squishy glory:

Two months went by in a flash #clumberspaniel

Don’t ask me if I’m crying a little. I’ll have to say yes, and then it’s weird! My youngest dog is three now, but I remember her being tiny, too. I miss it! She has no idea she’s not still tiny, though, and loves to sit in my lap anyway.

Since this isn’t a breed most of us see a lot, it’s only natural to be curious. They don’t look like most of the puppies we see regularly, and when we do see them, it’s often something to do with them being a dying breed.

Anna-av / Getty Images

Clumber Spaniels are pretty mellow dogs. They like to nap, cuddle, and get some not-too-hard exercise every day. These dogs were bred for retrieving game birds. They can be fast when they think it’s necessary, but good luck getting them to do something they don’t want to do. Clumber Spaniel puppies, however, are:

• Rambunctious during wake windows.
• Trainable.
• Food-motivated.
• Adventurous and open to lots of new things.

Clumber Spaniels are typically good with kids, too. They may be hard to come by, but if you look hard enough, you can totally find one. These puppies are just too sweet!

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Puppies are universally loved by all. Their cloud-like coats, huge paws, round bellies, and endearing sense of mischief make everyone fall in love with them regardless of breed. Some puppies are born with an intricate mosaic of fur that can resemble a watercolor masterpiece or some sort of pastry, and it’s over-the-top adorable.

This Pomeranian puppy boasts a unique pattern of light brown and white fur that could easily be mistaken for a dairy dessert.

Sweetest things come in the smallest packages #tinydog #pomeranian #puppydog #pomeraniansoftiktok #cutiepie

In the TikTok from @divine.poms, the precious puppy was held up to the camera to show off his head-turning patchwork coat. The warm, glossy cocoa-brown fur blending with silky ivory-colored splotches created a sweet-looking swirl of rich brown and pale cream. 

The thick fur gave the fluffy fur baby a plush, freshly-scooped appearance, with chocolate-colored markings standing out against the lighter, velvety coat.

“Who’s ready for some chocolate?” the on-screen text asked, with the caption adding, “Sweetest things come in the smallest packages.”

The puppy’s beautiful blue eyes completed the picture-perfect scene as he sweetly looked around the room. The pretty pooch’s coloring may change as he gets older, but his cuteness and charm will only grow.

Pomeranians are popular with pet parents due to their small size and big personalities. These canine cuties are very social and affectionate, with some trademark sass and a stubborn streak. Some little-known facts about these fur babies include:

Related: Pomeranian Brings True Oscar-Worthy Drama Over His Little Hurt Paw

• They originated from Pomerania in Northern Europe, hence the name of the breed.
• Pomeranians are also known as Poms or Pom Poms.
• Despite their small size, Pomeranians descended from big sled dogs.
• Pomeranians used to weigh up to 20 to 30 pounds before being bred down in size by England’s Queen Victoria.
• These small dogs are notorious for thinking they can take on big dogs with their little bark.
• Mozart dedicated an aria to his beloved Pomeranian, Pimperl.
• Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel with a Pomeranian by his side.
• Pomeranians make wonderful therapy dogs and are trained as hearing assistance dogs.
• They don’t require a lot of grooming other than regular brushing, despite their fluffy coats.

And like this little puppy, Pomeranians are completely irresistible.

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Maine Coon cats are already incredible-looking creatures with their Sphynx-like ears, significant size, and beautiful, long fur patterns.

But you haven’t seen a Maine Coon cat like this before.

In this new viral cat video, we meet a black Maine Coon cat that frankly looks like he’s wearing another cat’s coat, and it’s incredible.

I heard that this is a fashion item for the new season.👀#Mainecoon

As you can imagine, the comments section was quite fun.

“Why is your cat wearing another cat?” one person asked.

Another wrote, “It’s a llamacat.”

One commenter said, “That’s a Black Kitty in a lion costume.”

Another said the Maine Coon was a cat in sheep’s clothing.

One person compared the Maine Coon cat to a Labubu.

A few others remarked that the kitty looked like he was wearing the pelts of another animal.

But some found the Maine Coon cat to be incredibly fashionable.

“Black Cat wearing this season’s fur coat,” one person commented.

Related: Stunning Smoke Gray Maine Coon Kitten Looks Like a Little Old Man

Though it looks like this striking Maine Coon is just a Black Cat in a costume, this type of cat is known as a Black Smoke Maine Coon.

Black Smoke Maine Coons have two-toned coats, usually with black fur on the outer layer and then a white or silver coat underneath.

The two colors produce a smoke effect.

With the cat featured in this video, as well as an internet-famous cat named Richie, another Black Smoke Maine Coon, their coat patterns of fluffy white or silver fur surrounding their black faces and paws give them quite the striking aesthetic.

Beyond their appearance, Maine Coons are known for their curious and dynamic personalities.

They are very confident and energetic cats.

And how could this kitty not be confident, with that beautiful fur coat on at all times?!

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I have a Maine Coon, so I am well acquainted with the ridiculous amount of fluff these cats carry around. But every once in a while, I see a Maine Coon kitten whose fur is so spectacularly out of control that even I have questions.

This tiny kitten is one of them. He’s lounging on a scratching post with fluffy black, white and gray fur that all seems to smear together in the most adorable way. He looks less like a cat and more like a dust bunny that rolled out from underneath a piece of furniture in a haunted mansion and suddenly came to life.

Forever home secured! 🏡🥹 This little gentleman has found the family he was waiting for. #TikTokCreatorSearchInsightsIncentive #crycat #mainecoon #fyp #mainecoonlovers

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @big.paw.coons, and people were understandably obsessed with this little creature.

“Gorgeous floof wizard!” one person commented.

Okay, that’s actually an even better description than dust bunny.

Related: Calico Maine Coon Kitten’s Perfectly White Face Is Giving Powdered Donut

“Absolutely precious,” wrote another viewer, while someone else simply said, “What a beautiful baby.”

And his unusual coloring definitely didn’t go unnoticed.

“He has the most stunning coloring ever,” one person wrote.

Then we have my personal favorite: “He’s so black and white and baby.”

I don’t know why “baby” has become a color, but looking at him, I completely understand.

He wont stop growing until he’s 4-5yrs old too 😳 #bigcat #mainecoon #giantcat #maincooncat

One of the funniest things about seeing a Maine Coon this tiny is knowing that there’s a very good chance he isn’t going to stay tiny for long.

Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. Adult males commonly weigh around 18 to 22 pounds, according to the Maine Coon Cat Breed Council, while females are typically smaller. Individual cats can certainly fall outside those ranges.

They also take their sweet time growing up. Maine Coons can continue developing for several years before reaching their full adult size, so that fluffy little kitten you bring home can eventually become a whole lot of cat.

My Maine Coon, Meatball, is approximately 24 pounds, which means picking him up feels less like cuddling a house cat and more like relocating a furry ottoman.

And all that size comes with an impressive amount of fluff.

This little guy may currently look like a tiny dust bunny from a haunted mansion, but give him a few years.

He could become the entire haunted rug.

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It might be reasonable to assume that most kittens kind of look alike. We know they have the same eyes: baby grey/blue, until they develop their own eye color later on. They’re so small, too! Sometimes, it can feel hard to tell them apart.

Not these kittens, though. Recently, a black Maine Coon had a gorgeous litter of kittens, and they ended up looking like a meteor shower! I’ve never been lucky enough to see one of those before, so this litter of kittens is scratching that itch well:

Introduced the fall litter🍁🎃 #october #fall #mainecoon #catsoftiktok #kitten

The Wasatch Wild Tail Maine Coons are so precious. The cattery is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. This litter is officially designated as their “fall” litter, but they look more like tiny meteors!

Mom is an interesting mix of black and Tabby, and her kittens came out in varying shades of grey and black. A few of the kittens even have a bit of orange in them, which makes them look like flaming meteors. That’s even cooler!

Related: Maine Coon Kitten’s Different-Colored Eyes Look Like a Gorgeous Fall Sunset

The kittens, as all Maine Coon kittens do, are growing super fast. Already, they’re getting too big to all be nursing at the same time. Mom definitely has her paws full with this bunch:

2 week update #mainecoon #catsoftiktok #fall #kittensoftiktok #fallaesthetic

I feel like having just 1 kid would freak me out a lot, so the prospect of having 6 of them who double in size every two weeks would be wild. Their mama is very strong, and more than that, very patient!

These Maine Coon kittens are getting bigger every single day. When you go a week without seeing them, they look like almost completely different cats! That’s completely normal for this breed.

Nils Jacobi / Getty Images

Maine Coon kittens grow rapidly for the first year of their life, and they don’t reach full maturity until about 4 years old. In some cases, they can take as long as 5 years! Over the first year, you’ll notice:

• Rapid body growth.
• Quick weight gain: about 10-15 grams per day for the first several weeks.
• Lengthening of their coats.

By the time they hit 18 months old, they’ve often maxed out their physical size. The rest of the growth period will be spent on things like definition, bone and muscle growth and development, and continued growth of their adult coat. I bet these kittens will grow up to be some of the coolest!

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