Canine Communication Peaceful Pack

Mia Semuta

Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Dogs are amazing creatures. From once wild to domesticated companions over the course of a few thousand years, they have become such an integral part of our society that they now exist as members of the family. Just as a member of your family needs to learn the rules and abide by them to maintain a harmonious household, so does your . As with all relationships: communication is key. The tricky part is learning how to communicate with your dog in a manner that is understood. Once you unlock that obstacle then the sky is the limit for the joy and satisfaction that you and your canine family member will enjoy. are primarily concerned about two things:

Who’s in charge? What’s my job? Gigi, Stewie and Pony on place waiting to be called to dinner. As a pack it is a dog’s nature to strive to live in harmony with those around him. Dogs that “don’t like other dogs” are often afraid and have not been properly socialized. Dogs that “don’t like strangers” have not always been abused but they don’t have a strong sense of security in their pack leader’s ability to lead. Dogs that “only do what I say when I have a treat” don’t really understand what you’re saying. It is totally possible to learn how to be the strong leader your dog needs, how to properly socialize your dog and how to speak to your dog in a language that is natural to him. Chaos, Mayhem, Gigi, Kameo and Pony posing for the camera. I train on six basic commands:

1. Heel 2. Sit 3. Stay 4. Come 5. Place 6. Down

Within that framework, it is possible to teach your dog many other commands and suggestions, but the basics are what Peyton, my sweet angel waiting for me at the Rainbow Bridge. you need to create a peaceful home. Full disclosure: I can teach your dog lots of great things but it will not last if you do not maintain it. Very much like a professional organizer, I can come in to clean and organize your cupboards and closets but if you don’t maintain it then it will quickly go back to being a disaster. 80% of the training is for the people. I will do my very best to help you as much as I help your dog. I cannot promise perfection but I do promise I will make every effort possible and point you in a new direction if necessary. Gigi and Pony at the playground.

~2~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Creating an environment Dogs are creatures of habit. They thrive best when they know where they belong and what to expect. They crave security so it is important to create an environment that they understand to provide them with the familiarity and security they need to be their best selves. As , we crave the same but in much different forms.

People, generally, do not crave small spaces to burrow into; dogs do. Most dogs appreciate having a crate in which to retreat. Offering a crate as a source of comfort and respite, not as a punishment, will help give your dog a place he can call his own. He will learn that he can make better choices if he has a place to go when he’s feeling anxious. You will want to create an atmosphere where the dog does not have to be concerned about being taunted or harmed while in the crate. It should be a place that is comfortable and safe and he is praised for choosing to retreat. How do we create that Pony at his third birthday party. environment for our dogs? It’s different for every dog. If your dog minds the heat then a thick, fuzzy blanket might not be the best choice. For a large dog with a thick coat, a place board with a towel might be the way to go. If your dog gets chilled easily then a plush bed and a blanket to burrow under might be the right choice. If you know you’ll be gone for more than six hours you might consider a water source in the crate. You can get an elevated bowl or a bottle that clips onto the crate so that an excited dog does not dump it and then must lie in wet Gigi avoiding the roofers at home. bedding. These are decisions that can only be made with a little trial and error. Every dog will appreciate a size- appropriate crate. They should have enough room to walk in, turn around and lie down. Nothing more. Again, as humans, we view plenty of space as a luxury but to a dog- especially to a small dog- too much space means a lack of security. How could your pup possibly relax and take a nap when there is so much perimeter to be guarded? The crate pictured here is far too big for Gigi. She has way too much space to feel she can secure it all on her own. Her toys and Kong were left untouched because she could not relax.

You can teach an old dog new tricks; your puppy is not going to just grow out of it.

~3~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

One of the most difficult things to do is to In the crate you should give your stop thinking of our dogs as people. Yes, they dog something to do. A Kong filled with treats and peanut butter gives a mental are family. Yes, we love them. Yes, there is challenge with an immediate reward; a nothing we would not do to protect them and long-lasting chew toy, not a rawhide, show our love. They are still not people. offers relief from boredom. Avoid toys that can be ripped apart and avoid too many choices. Crate time should be time to relax. I always leave the television or the radio on for my dogs so they don’t have to concentrate on all the noises outside. When crated, I never put a fan on them directly. A ceiling fan or a fan pointed over the crate is a good choice as it keeps the air moving without leaving him without an escape from the breeze.

You are not punishing your dog by offering a crate. You are creating an environment that a dog most appreciates. Think about it this way: You have a goldfish that you simply adore; you love this fish and you want to Sweet Ellie express your affection. Do you feed it ice cream and bring the fish into your bed at night to sleep? Of course not! You give your fish a nice bowl, clean water, a plant or two to swim around and fish food. You create for the fish the best environment that a fish needs to thrive. Keep that in mind when you are Your dog is now creating an environment for your dog. living in a human pack but we still want to create an Establishing Leadership environment for him that is One of a dog’s primary concerns is, “Who’s in charge?” best for a dog to thrive. They need to understand the chain of command and where they rank. In the absence of a clear leader most dogs will step up and take that role. They will do it whether or not they have a natural propensity for it. This often leads to disaster. Trying to convince your dog to do as you want when you have not convinced him that you’re in charge is a lesson in frustration for all parties involved. Your dog wants to trust you, he wants to know that when push comes to shove you are making good choices and strong decisions.

It may seem illogical, but it is the most insecure dog that is often the most aggressive. The thought process is this, “I’m really nervous and scared. My person is not very strong so it’s only up to me to make sure that we’re all okay. Better that I get rid of danger before it can get us.” That translates to a dog that incessantly barks at squirrels in the yard, attacks the cable guy, refuses to make friends with strangers, hates anything on wheels and generally makes life miserable for anyone who is not in his little circle.

Gigi and Pony enjoying the off-leash freedom that only comes with solid obedience.

~4~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Once a dog feels safe and secure in the pack leader, YOU, he can relax and accept that leadership. Acceptance means following your lead and not getting upset about squirrels, repairmen and bicycles. A dog’s instinct is to protect his pack. He is in tune with you by monitoring your blood pressure. Much like a seizure alert or diabetic alert dog can sense when the human body is off-center, your dog ebbs and flows with your blood pressure. When you’re excited, either positive or negative, that excitement is contagious. When there is real danger, he will know. I promise. Even if you don’t say it out loud your BP will speak to him and he will react. He will protect his pack. Until then, it is our responsibility as humans and pack leaders to set the tone and lead the Bailey in bloom. way.

That all sounds good but how? One of the biggest ways is with food. In the wild, in a wolf or dog pack, the alpha eats first. When there is a fresh kill or scavenge, meaning food is available, the alpha eats until he is satisfied and then the beta and so on down the line. This means that meal times are established by the leadership. This translates to your domesticated dog by maintaining mealtimes. Dogs who know their person serves breakfast and dinner at the same time each day learn that the alpha will provide food regularly. This creates trust that you will fulfill his needs and therefore he feels your affection. Allowing dogs to free-eat creates an assumption that the dog is the pack leader because he can eat whenever he wants. This is confusing when you then insist he obey you. Well-behaved dogs are not oppressed Your responsibility is to provide healthy, consistent, adequate or sad; they are secure meals and fresh water. I’m not a veterinarian so I cannot give you and certain where they advice on what and how much your dog should eat. However, I can belong. whole-heartedly advise you to establish your dogs at Harrisburg Area Animal Hospital because Dr. Dana Walck is, hands-down, the best. Create consistent mealtimes with your dog and give him about 15 minutes to finish. Take it away after time is up so he can’t play head games with you. If he knows you’re waiting for him to finish before you leave for work and he doesn’t want you to leave, he might try to manipulate you to stay by not eating. Most dogs will only miss a few meals before they realize that you’re not falling for it and they should get serious about that bowl!

Strong leadership is also created on a daily, structured walk. This is completely separate from a potty break. Naturally, you want your dog to go outside and not on the carpet but on the structured walk that happens when you say so. A structured walk is not time to sniff and explore every blade of grass or to stop and stare at every critter. Those are freedoms to be enjoyed during playtime but must be earned. Don’t allow yourself to fall into the guilt trap of, “Well, he had to go!” or “He Piper just wants to sniff, it’s okay.” No, it is not. You establish the hierarchy by insisting on a proper heel on A structured walk is for your daily walk and reward obedience the human, the dog is honored with the freedom of playtime. They appreciate the freedom to be asked to come along. they earn and will show their appreciation with obedience. Playtime is for the dog; the It’s a beautiful cycle. human is honored to be allowed to watch.

~5~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Family Investment Dogs are far more observant and smarter than we realize. They will pick up very quickly on which humans in the house are consistent and which ones will bend the rules. If the rule is, “No dogs on the couch,” but one of the four humans who live there doesn’t care you can bet on that dog being on the couch when the other three are not around! It’s also a safe bet that the people who do not enforce the rules will be the ones who find their shoes in pieces and their space invaded. If your dog doesn’t see you as his superior, he will go out of his way to show you that you are his subordinate. It takes all the members of the family to take a strong stand and show leadership. Your dog wants to be a member of your pack; he Pony and Gigi also needs to know where he ranks.

Daily Responsibilities Consistency and routine are the most important and kindest things you can give your dog. The following list is not all-inclusive but it’s a great start.

• Provide a safe, secure, indoor living space. Just because he has fur does not mean he’s immune to the elements. • Every morning, take your dog’s collar off of the charger and put it on securely; alternating sides. There is a video on the Zia’s Pups page that will remind you how to sync the collar. • Rinse the bowl well and offer fresh water. Dog saliva is really slimy and thick and will make the water gross if you only keep filling the bowl. At least once a week scrub the water bowls with dish soap and hot water or put through a dishwasher cycle. Food bowls should be washed daily. • Serve meals close to the same time each day. Frequency and amount should be a decision made with your veterinarian. • Go for a structured walk for at least 20 minutes, more if the weather and your schedule permit! • Offer potty breaks outdoors every 6-8 hours, more frequently for puppies. If your life and livelihood keep you away from home for a longer stretch, consider hiring a sitter to give your dog some mid-day relief or to reinforce your training with a structured walk. Gigi, Shrump and Pony at Gigi's fifth birthday party. My very highest recommendation is for Prefurred Pet Care. • At bedtime, remove the collar, check for hot spots and plug in both the collar and the remote to charge overnight. If you discover a hot spot treat it and be sure to move the collar to a different spot.

~6~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Balanced Training There are several schools of thought about the best way to communicate with and train your dog. I feel that balanced training is the way to go. It is clear, efficient and most closely mimics how dogs relate to one another. Offer praise and affection for desired behavior and offer corrections for poor choices. I use an e- collar to correct poor choices and feel it’s the most consistently reliable method of communication. In a dog pack, a dog who defies the alpha is dealt with by nips and body checks. A dog who must learn to live in a human pack needs the same primal clue that he has made a poor choice. Poor choices should make us uncomfortable. If we drink too much we have a hangover the next day. That’s uncomfortable. If a dog jumps up on you and on company he needs to be made to feel uncomfortable otherwise he has no incentive to stop making that choice. When it comes Not sure what was so funny, Pony and Gigi... to rewarding good behavior…

YOU SET WHAT YOU PET

If a dog is showing aggression or fear you must be careful not to offer praise. They don’t interpret comfort the same way we do. If they are whining or pacing or barking and we treat them like we would a human then they interpret this as confirmation that those behaviors are desirable. We only offer praise when they are displaying the behavior we desire. I avoid giving too many treats during training. When establishing desired behavior you want your dog to obey you because it makes you happy, not because you will offer a treat. Treats should be a treat, not an expectation. Finally, keep in mind that training is 24/7. You can’t expect to just parent your human children for an intensive half-hour once a week and then for 20-minutes a day. No, you parent all day, every day- even after they grow up and are on their own. Setbacks, regression and plateaus are perfectly normal! This is why it is so important to establish expectations and to offer both praise and corrections. When your mixed-breed rescue mutt makes it her personal mission to rid the back porch of the chipmunks or your pure-bred German Shepherd refuses to stop antagonizing the kitties, remember that every dog needs a reminder now and then.

ABT Always Be Training!

~7~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Why Mia Semuta? Who is she? I am a West Shore Harrisburg native, life-long animal lover and a career educator. I began my professional career in the classroom teaching high school English, social studies and English as a second language. I’ve been an educator, instructor or trainer in the fields of health, insurance, culinary, automotive, IT and canine obedience. My time spent teaching and training across a varied manner of topics has brought a wealth of experience from which to draw. The heart of all learning is communication; learning how to unlock the door that leads to your student’s language, be that student human or canine. In addition to training my own dogs throughout my life, as well as those of my large, extended family with countless pure-breds, mixed-breeds and rescues, I began my professional dog training career after learning from the woman who trained Pony and me. At first I attended classes and took private lessons as a Mom trying desperately to instill some manners in the unruly beast. It was like magic, good manners quickly followed and I discovered a new avenue in my passion for education. I call him Pony Boy after the character from The Outsiders; he is, now and forever, a member of my family.

Having learned so much as a client, and with my penchant for education of all kinds, I went on to help conduct group classes and individual training sessions while I continued to learn more myself. I soon began conducting individual lessons and group classes on my own. This has grown into my own, fully-insured, viable business which continues to expand daily. I have also received additional training from Master Trainer Jeff Gellman who has expanded my skill set and knowledge in the rehabilitation and training of aggressive dogs and those on their last, desperate chance. Pony and I at the signing of Libre's Law

At the end of the day I am, ever, a teacher. It’s an honor and a privilege to now have my own school full of canine students. But don’t just take my word for it.

~8~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Testimonials A resume is not enough, what speaks volumes are results. The proof is in the photos on our Facebook page and website; here’s what a few clients have to say.

This is our dog, Gronk, he became a student of Mia’s at 6-years-old. Mia has changed our lives as to whom we can have come visit our home. You see, Gronk is not fond of men. Since working with Mia she has given us the correct tools on how to train him so he can be relaxed enough to welcome people into our home and to take Gronk out into the world. I wish we would have found her years ago! Thanks, Mia!!

Ann Higgins

I can’t say enough positive things about Mia’s training! My 2 dogs did a 2 week board & train, when they came home I couldn’t believe they were my dogs. I loved them before, but now I get to enjoy them too. We all look forward to our walks, practicing our manners & our weekly lessons. I think the girls get more excited to see Mia than me!

Erin Aikens

Just about two years ago, I adopted a rescue, Ellie. She was not socialized at all as a pup and any interaction with people, cars, most things actually scared her. I tried for a year by reading several books just to get some idea of how to help her. Within weeks, I had her great at home she would listen to me with just a good girl or a no. Away from the house, totally different ball game. I was walking at night or when the kids would be at school just to avoid people. It wasn’t fun to walk the dogs. In a move a complete desperation, I called Mia. BEST THING I ever did! Ellie and I do 5K walks now. She still has some fears but she is just doing great! And obedience training – you cannot believe the ramifications down the road. This started as just wanting to walk my dog and it has become so much more – use those commands at the vet way better behaved dog – and she is more behaved because she wants to not just because I am the boss.

Also, when you join Mia’s pack, you are getting more than just obedience classes. Once cleared you join pack class, which is often about once a week, you get to learn new things with your dog, practice behaviors so when your dog sees them, they are ready for it, and gain friends that are like minded about their furry friends.

Like I said, this started as just wanted my dog to walk and be a little less afraid of things – Now I can take my dog anywhere and have the confidence that she will listen to me and know I have her back and she doesn’t have to be afraid!

Angie Clark

~9~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Programs

A current health and vaccination certificate from your veterinarian is required for lessons, to attend class, to attend play dates or to board in my home. This includes rabies, distemper and Bordetella.

Good Dog This is an obedience foundation program that will open the lines of communication between you and your dog. From this framework you will be able to build impeccable manners and create a peaceful family life. The ultimate goal of this program is graduation. Good Dog tuition covers the following:

1. An electronic training collar system. 2. Leashes for walking and for training. 3. Additional collars as needed during training. 4. 10 lessons within 10 weeks. These will begin privately in your home and expand to include other dogs and public places. Normally within this timeframe your dog will be approved for playdates and group class. 5. Once approved and with continued appropriate behavior, your dog(s) may participate for life in any or all scheduled classes, playdates and/or events at no additional cost.

10 days is my standard recommendation for a board and train. Shorter or longer periods are available to suit your budget and need.

Good Dog B&T The board and train program is offered on a limited basis. An intensive 5-10 day, (or longer, as needed), live-in program at my home where your dog receives 24/7 training on proper indoor vs. outdoor behavior, essential manners, appropriate socialization with human visitors and other dogs, respect for property, (e.g. furniture, carpet, personal items), and basic table etiquette. The ultimate goal of this program is graduation. Good Dog B&T tuition covers the following:

1. An electronic training collar system. 2. Leashes for walking and for training. 3. Additional collars as needed during training. 4. 3 follow-up lessons within 3 weeks of the conclusion of the boarding period. These will incorporate transition back into the home and include teaching you- the pack leader- how to communicate with your freshly trained dog so that the training “sticks.” 5. Once approved and with continued appropriate behavior, your dog(s) may participate for life in any or all scheduled classes, playdates and/or events at no additional cost.

Currently, classes are held on Sunday mornings at 10:00 and on Wednesday evenings during Daylight Savings Time at 6:00. Location changes to different parks and dog-friendly establishments. Details are available on our Facebook page.

~10~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Puppy Pre-School The greatest need of puppies during the first 6-months of their lives is socialization. Basic manners should be taught from the minute you bring your puppy home. The ultimate goal of this program is to prepare your puppy for obedience training. Pre-school tuition covers the following:

1. Leashes for walking and for training. 2. Additional collars as needed during training. 3. 4 private, 30-minute lessons. 4. Eligibility for attendance at group classes. 5. If approved for attendance at group classes, your puppy may attend any or all scheduled group classes and events at no additional cost until he turns 6-months old. If you choose to continue after 6-months of age then enrollment in Puppy Plus is required.

Puppy Plus The ultimate goal of this program is graduation. It is available only for puppies greater than 6- months of age who have successfully completed Puppy Pre-School and have been approved for group classes. The ultimate goal of this program is graduation. Puppy Plus tuition includes the following:

1. An electronic training collar system. 2. 10 lessons within 10 weeks. These will begin privately in your home and expand to include other dogs and public places. 3. With continued appropriate behavior, your dog(s) may participate for life in any or all scheduled classes, playdates and/or events at no additional cost.

Prices, discounts and payment plans are available, please see page 13 for details.

Home School Do you have a dog that is already very well-behaved but you feel can benefit from participation in group class, playdates and pack events? Let’s set up graduation and temperament tests so we can skip right to the maintenance portion of training! Home School tuition covers testing; if successful and with continued appropriate behavior, your dog(s) may participate for life in any or all scheduled classes, playdates and/or events at no additional cost.

A piece of the pack on place. ~11~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Scheduling Individual training sessions, including board and train, are made at our mutual convenience.

Graduation Most dogs will be ready for graduation within their 10 lessons in 10 weeks or following their 3 follow-up lessons. Each lesson will concentrate on a specific command or skill. You will be asked to practice each day to master it. Some dogs learn faster so we can finish sooner, other dogs need a little more time. If needed, additional lessons are available for $25 per half-hour. Normally, multiple dog households are more successful if everyone is on the same program. If started together, a discount will be offered off of the total price. If not, additional dogs will be charged full price. After adequate progress has been made your dog will be approved to attend classes, playdates and events. Other clients will often post on our Facebook page looking for others to join them at a local park for a walk or a playdate. Take advantage of these opportunities! Ozzie, Gigi, Chaos, Mayhem and Pony The power of the pack cannot be stressed enough.

I am not a fan of dog parks as I don’t trust the people, there is no promise that the dogs there have proper training or medical care and it is generally not a healthy environment for dogs. Think of is as a teenage after-prom party without adult supervision. Maybe nothing will go wrong… There is no shame in being particular about with whom your dog socializes. They will pick up habits fast from other dogs- good ones and bad ones! Ultimately, we are working toward a final examination that will lead to a proud graduate.

Graduation Requirements Graduation with Honors Ideally, each member of the family will Only one member of the family needs demonstrate mastery of the following to act as handler for the following: commands: 1. Accepting a friendly stranger 1. Heel- both on and off leash 2. Sitting politely for affection from a friendly 2. Sit stranger 3. Stay 3. Grooming Manners 4. Come 4. Walking in a crowd 5. Place 5. Greeting other dogs 6. Down 6. Reaction to distraction 7. Supervised separation

After graduation, I offer boarding as an alternative to pop-in visits from neighbors or to kennels. I ask that you provide your dog’s normal kibble so that we avoid belly aches.

Good buddies, Ozzie and Dudley.

~12~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

Fee Schedule Payment may be made by cash, check, Venmo or secured credit card transaction via PayPal.

Good Dog $850 Puppy Plus $550 Good Dog B&T $850 + $40 per day* Graduate Boarding $40 per day* Puppy Pre-School $300 Home School $200†

*If your dog is not housebroken you will be charged an additional $20 per day

†If your dog is unsuccessful, your payment will be deducted from your tuition in another program.

Multi-Dog Discounts If you would like to have up to four dogs trained at the same time and during the same session, a 25% discount will be applied to your overall fees for any of the programs offered.

Payment Plans In the event that advance payment in full is not comfortable within your budget, payment plans are available. Your total fees will be divided into four equal payments. The first is due one- week prior to your first lesson and then every two weeks thereafter until full payment is made. If, at any point, you are unable to make payment, training and group classes will be paused until your payments are made current. If you cannot become current within your original allotment of 10- weeks you must begin again with payment in full. Good Dog B&T tuition must be paid in full one-week prior to the beginning of his stay. The daily boarding fee is due upon transfer of care, custody and control to Mia Semuta. Failure to render payment as scheduled will result in suspension of training and eligibility of group classes, playdates and events until payment is made. If you choose to continue on with Puppy Plus you must enroll within three-months of the conclusion of Puppy Pre-School. Enrollment requires the first payment of the Puppy Plus program at least one-week prior to your first Puppy Plus lesson. If, at any point, you are unable to make payment, training and group classes will be paused until your payments are made current. If you cannot become current within your original allotment of 10-weeks you must begin again with payment in full for the Good Dog program.

PLEASE NOTE: All payments are non-refundable. Exceptions to the refund policy, available discounts and adjustments to any payment plans will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis at the sole discretion of Mia Semuta.

I’m so glad that you have chosen me for your dog’s education. Thank you! Call, text or email as you need and keep an eye on my website or the Zia’s Pups page on Facebook for classes, playdates, events and great tips. 

717-919-7845 [email protected]

www.miasemuta.com

My favorite picture of Pony Boy and Gigi Loo

~13~ Canine Communication, Peaceful Pack Mia Semuta

The Last Word

Greetings, all. My name is Pony Boy Semuta. I was dumped by the side of the road and lived my first year of life on the streets. Eventually, I was rescued but by then I had terminal kidney disease and only three-months to live. Mia took me in figuring it was temporary. Mind you, I was basically a criminal. I had no boundaries, I stole food. I had no respect for people or property, I didn’t listen. I acted out, I wreaked havoc on her house. I was a mess. So, Mom made it her mission that I would die a gentleman. She hired a professional, took me to classes and she trained me from what she learned. She also worked with my vet, Dr. Dana, to get me on the proper medications and to devise a new diet, (less trash can pickings and more nutrients), so I didn’t die. And now, six years later, I am not only alive, but have been the finest gentleman you could ever imagine for a dog. I protect our home but I welcome her many visitors of all ages and species. I know my place and behave accordingly. I play well with others. I go to her classes to set an example. I wrote a book, I got a dog of my own and I’ve even helped her raise a few babies of the human kind without so much as a nip or a growl! Who says you can’t teach an old dog?!?!

Resources

Harrisburg Area Animal Hospital Dr. Dana Walck facebook.com/HarrisburgAreaAnimalHospital 4010 Londonderry Road Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (717) 525-9522

Prefurred Pet Care Services Becki Davis, Owner facebook.com/prefurredpetcareservices (717) 585-0487

Zia’s Pups! Mia Semuta, Dog Trainer facebook.com/groups/173550363347204/ This is a closed group, you must be added by an admin. All posts must be approved by an admin.

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