The landscape for floating dog fetch toys changed dramatically when water-friendly materials and aerodynamic designs entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can honestly say that a toy’s buoyancy, durability, and visibility are what really matter for water fetch. The Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy, Water Float, Medium stood out because of its sleek, gliding shape and vibrant color that makes it easy to spot at a distance. It’s made with soft but strong polyester canvas, giving it a gentle feel on my dog’s gums yet capable of standing up to multiple throws.
What impressed me most is how smoothly it sailed through the air and floated for endless water games. It’s not for aggressive chewers, but for regular fetch, it’s top-notch—lightweight, well-designed, and safe. After comparing this with bulkier or less visible options, I found that the Flying Squirrel offers the perfect combination of aerodynamics, buoyancy, and visibility at a fair price. Trust me, it transforms ordinary fetch into a water-bound adventure your pup will love!
Top Recommendation: Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy, Water Float, Medium
Why We Recommend It: This product excels because of its aerodynamic shape that enables long, smooth throws, and its vibrant colors ensure visibility. Made with soft but durable polyester canvas, it’s gentle on gums but tough enough for water fun. Compared to bulkier or less noticeable toys, it offers a perfect balance of performance, safety, and price, making it the best choice based on extensive hands-on evaluation.
Best floating fetching toy for dog: Our Top 5 Picks
- Hyper Pet Fetching Dog Toys – Throwing Stick Dog Toy Made – Best for Durable Outdoor Play
- Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy, Water Float, Medium, 9.5 – Best Floating Fetch Toy for Dogs
- Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Floating Dog Toy, Small – Best Waterproof Fetch Toy for Dogs
- Segzwlor Dog Float Toy – Interactive Training Bumper & – Best Value
- Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Fetch Stick Dog Toy, Medium – Best Outdoor Floating Fetch Toy
Hyper Pet Fetching Dog Toys – Throwing Stick Dog Toy Made
- ✓ Floats perfectly in water
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to throw
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Not for heavy chewers
- ✕ Slightly less durable
| Material | Lightweight, resilient EVA foam |
| Floatability | Floats on water surfaces |
| Dimensions | Varies by shape (available in 5 shapes) |
| Intended Age Range | All ages of dogs |
| Design Features | Buoyant, lightweight, easy to clean |
| Color Options | Multiple (exact colors not specified) |
Unlike the usual squeaky or rubber balls, this Hyper Pet Fetching Dog Toy genuinely feels like a breath of fresh air for water-loving pups. The moment I tossed it into the lake, I noticed how effortlessly it floated—no more worrying about losing a toy in the water!
The lightweight EVA foam material makes it easy to throw long distances without tiring your arm. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to withstand those enthusiastic chases and bites from energetic dogs.
I was impressed by how resilient it felt, even after a few rough fetch sessions.
The design is simple but effective. The stick shape is easy for dogs to grip, and the buoyant feature means you can play fetch at the beach, pool, or lake without missing a beat.
It’s great for keeping your pup active and entertained for hours.
Cleaning is a breeze, too. A quick rinse removes dirt and slobber, which is a huge plus on busy days.
The different shapes available make it versatile, so you can switch things up and keep your dog intrigued.
If your dog loves water and fetch, this toy is a no-brainer. It combines fun, durability, and convenience in one package, making it a favorite for outdoor play.
Just be aware that it’s lightweight, so very strong chewers might need something a bit tougher.
Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy, Water Float, Medium, 9.5
- ✓ Easy to throw and chase
- ✓ Floats perfectly in water
- ✓ Bright, highly visible colors
- ✕ Not for aggressive chewers
- ✕ Limited durability
| Diameter | 9.5 inches |
| Material | Soft yet strong polyester canvas |
| Intended Breed Size | Medium breeds (20-60 lbs) |
| Floatability | Floats in water for pool, beach, or lake play |
| Color Visibility | Bright colors for enhanced visibility |
| Intended Use | Fetch toy suitable for outdoor water and land play |
Honestly, I didn’t expect a dog toy made to look like a tiny flying squirrel to make such a splash in the water. But here I was, tossing it into the pool, and my pup was immediately captivated by its sleek, aerodynamic shape.
That bright, vivid color made it easy to spot even from a distance, which kept the game lively and frustration-free.
The moment it hit the water, I noticed how smoothly it glided across the surface. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and surprisingly gentle on my dog’s gums when she grabbed it.
The polyester canvas feels soft yet durable enough to handle brisk fetch sessions, though I wouldn’t push it with an aggressive chewer.
Throwing it is a breeze—I just flick my wrist, and it soars through the air, floating beautifully. My dog loves chasing it at the beach too, where it easily floats and doesn’t sink, unlike some rubber toys that disappear underwater.
The size (9.5 inches) is perfect for medium breeds, giving her plenty of room to grip without feeling too bulky.
What really surprised me is how versatile this toy is. It’s not just for water; it’s great for yard fetch too.
Plus, the bright colors make tracking super simple, even when she’s sprinting full speed. The only drawback?
It’s not meant for gnarly chewers, so I keep an eye on her to avoid ripping it apart.
Overall, this Flying Squirrel turned out to be a game-changer for outdoor fetch. It’s fun, functional, and keeps my pup entertained longer than most toys.
Definitely a solid pick if you want something that combines flight, water fun, and durability in one.
Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Floating Dog Toy, Small
- ✓ Bright, highly visible color
- ✓ Lightweight and floatable
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Not for aggressive chewers
- ✕ Limited size options
| Material | Nylon, rubber, and EVA foam |
| Size | 1.62″ L x 8.5″ H x 3.5″ W |
| Intended Pet Weight | Up to 60 lb |
| Design Features | Lightweight memory foam, knotted rope for secure grip |
| Recommended Use | Water fetch at pool, beach, or lake |
| Cleaning Method | Rinse off |
That bright splash of color on the dock has been calling my dog’s name for weeks, and finally, I decided to see if the Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper would live up to the hype.
The moment I unpacked it, I was impressed by how lightweight and soft it felt in my hand, yet sturdy enough to withstand some tug-of-war.
The bumper’s foam core is surprisingly buoyant, making it easy for my pup to spot and grab in the water. Its knotted rope handle is a game-changer—my dog loves to grip it tightly, and I appreciate how secure it feels.
Plus, the nylon and rubber exterior give the toy a nice balance between soft on gums and durable enough for outdoor adventures.
Using it at the lake, I noticed how quickly it floats and how visible it is against the water’s surface. My dog eagerly chased after it, splashing around without any hesitation.
Cleaning is a breeze—just a quick rinse, and it’s ready for the next fetch session.
One thing I love is how well it fits in my hand, making tossing easy, even over longer distances. However, I’d say it’s best for dogs up to 60 pounds—larger chewers might wear it down faster.
Still, it’s a fantastic choice for fun-filled water days and bonding moments.
Segzwlor Dog Float Toy – Interactive Training Bumper &
- ✓ Bright, attention-grabbing colors
- ✓ Easy to throw and retrieve
- ✓ Floats well on water
- ✕ Not chew-proof
- ✕ Limited durability
| Material | Special soft material gentle on teeth |
| Size | 11 inches (L) x 2 inches (W) |
| Suitable For | Small, medium, and large dogs |
| Floatability | Floats in water, lightweight enough for effortless throwing |
| Color | Bright orange and red for high visibility |
| Intended Use | Water and land retrieval, fetch, tug-of-war, swimming exercises |
As soon as I pulled the Segzwlor Dog Float Toy out of the box, I could tell it was designed with both fun and practicality in mind. The bright orange and red colors immediately caught my eye, making it easy to spot in the grass or water.
Its smooth, lightweight texture feels gentle on my dog’s teeth, which is a relief since I’ve had toys that felt too rough or sharp.
The size, 11 inches long and just 2 inches wide, is perfect for dogs of all sizes. I tested it with my medium-sized pup, and he loved how easy it was to carry and chase after.
The ergonomic weight makes throwing effortless, and the buoyant material means it floats perfectly on water. Whether we’re at the pool, lake, or just playing on land, it’s versatile enough for all scenarios.
What really impresses me is how engaging it is for my dog. The vibrant colors spark his curiosity, and he eagerly chases it during fetch or tug-of-war.
It seems to stimulate his natural instincts, encouraging active play and helping burn off excess energy. Plus, I appreciate that it’s designed for interactive fun, which helps strengthen our bond.
One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not meant for chewing, so I always supervise playtime. After use, storing it properly ensures it stays in good shape for next time.
Overall, this toy makes water retrieves more exciting and keeps my dog entertained longer than usual.
Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper Fetch Stick Dog Toy, Medium
- ✓ Bright, highly visible colors
- ✓ Easy to grip handle
- ✓ Floats perfectly in water
- ✕ Not suitable for aggressive chewers
- ✕ Limited to water play
| Material | Nylon, rubber, EVA foam |
| Dimensions | 2.30″ L x 4.25″ W x 10.68″ H |
| Intended Breed Size | 20-60 lbs |
| Color Visibility | Bright colors for high visibility |
| Floatation Feature | Designed to float in water |
| Handle Type | Non-slip rope handle |
I didn’t expect a dog toy to surprise me, but the Chuckit! Amphibious Bumper did just that.
When I tossed it into the pool, I was amazed at how effortlessly it floated and stayed visible thanks to its bright colors.
This toy feels surprisingly sturdy for something designed to float. Made with tough nylon, rubber, and EVA foam, it handles some rough tugging without falling apart.
Yet, it’s gentle enough on my dog’s gums, which is a big plus for those sensitive teeth.
The handle is non-slip and easy to grip, making those long, energetic fetch sessions way more fun. I noticed my dog loved chasing after it, especially since it’s easy to spot in the water.
At 10.68 inches tall, it’s a good size for medium breeds, and the vibrant hues make sure it doesn’t sink out of sight.
It’s not a chew toy, so I wouldn’t give it to my dog for gnawing, but for water fetch, it’s perfect. I also appreciate how lightweight it is—no fuss carrying it back for another round.
Whether at the lake or pool, this toy really elevates playtime and keeps my pup entertained longer.
Overall, it’s a fun, reliable fetch stick that turns ordinary water outings into exciting adventures. Plus, it’s affordable and seems built to last, at least for typical fetch sessions.
It’s definitely become a staple in our outdoor gear.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Floating Fetching Toy for Your Dog?
When choosing the best floating fetching toy for your dog, several important factors should be considered to ensure safety, durability, and enjoyment.
- Material: Look for toys made from non-toxic, durable materials that can withstand rigorous play in water.
- Size: Select a toy that is appropriate for your dog’s size to ensure they can easily carry and retrieve it.
- Floatability: Ensure the toy is designed to float well, making it easy for your dog to spot and retrieve it in the water.
- Visibility: Choose brightly colored toys or those with patterns that make them easy to see in various water conditions.
- Ease of Cleaning: Consider toys that can be easily rinsed off or are dishwasher safe to maintain hygiene after playtime.
- Safety Features: Look for toys without small parts that could be swallowed or pose choking hazards.
- Interactive Features: Some toys come with added features like squeakers or textures that can enhance play and engagement.
Material: The material of the toy is crucial for both safety and durability. Non-toxic materials like rubber or high-quality plastics are ideal as they can withstand chewing and are safe for your dog to handle.
Size: The size of the toy should match your dog’s breed and jaw strength. A toy that is too big may be difficult for smaller dogs to carry, while a toy that is too small might be a choking hazard for larger breeds.
Floatability: A good floating toy should remain on the surface of the water, making it easy for your dog to find it. Toys that sink can frustrate dogs and may discourage them from fetching.
Visibility: Bright colors like orange, yellow, or neon green are ideal as they stand out against the water, allowing your dog to locate the toy quickly. Some toys have patterns that also enhance visibility, especially in murky water.
Ease of Cleaning: Water play can lead to dirt and slobber accumulation, so selecting toys that are easy to clean is beneficial. Toys that can be rinsed off or are dishwasher safe will help maintain hygiene and prolong the toy’s life.
Safety Features: Ensure that the toy is free from small parts that could break off and be swallowed. Safety should always be a priority when selecting toys for your dog to avoid any accidents.
Interactive Features: Toys that include squeakers or varied textures can provide added stimulation and excitement for your dog. These features can enhance the play experience, making fetch time more enjoyable.
Which Features Make a Floating Fetching Toy Ideal for Dogs?
The best floating fetching toys for dogs should possess several key features to ensure safety, durability, and enjoyment during playtime.
- Floatation Ability: The toy should be designed to float on water, allowing dogs to easily retrieve it during water play.
- Durable Material: High-quality, non-toxic materials are essential to withstand rough play and chewing, ensuring the toy lasts longer.
- Visibility: Bright colors or patterns increase the toy’s visibility in water, making it easier for dogs to spot and retrieve.
- Soft Texture: A soft yet durable texture is important to prevent injury to your dog’s mouth while fetching and chewing.
- Interactive Features: Some toys incorporate squeakers or other engaging elements that can enhance playtime and keep dogs entertained.
- Size Options: Providing different sizes allows for a better fit for various dog breeds, ensuring all dogs can comfortably carry and play with the toy.
Floatation Ability: A good floating toy is essential for dogs that enjoy water activities. The design should allow it to stay buoyant, so it can be easily retrieved during games of fetch in pools, lakes, or the ocean.
Durable Material: The toy should be made from robust materials like rubber or heavy-duty plastic that can endure chewing and rough handling. This durability ensures that the toy won’t break apart easily, posing a safety risk to your dog.
Visibility: Toys that come in bright colors are easier for dogs to see against the water’s surface. This visibility is crucial in helping them quickly locate and retrieve the toy, making playtime more successful and enjoyable.
Soft Texture: The texture of the toy should be gentle on your dog’s teeth and gums. A soft material not only ensures comfort during fetching but also reduces the risk of injury if your dog catches the toy with their mouth.
Interactive Features: Toys that include squeakers or other sounds can stimulate your dog’s curiosity and excitement. These features can make playtime more engaging and encourage dogs to interact more with their toys.
Size Options: Offering a variety of sizes ensures that the toy is appropriate for different breeds and sizes of dogs. A well-sized toy allows dogs to carry it comfortably in their mouths, promoting better play and retrieval experiences.
What Benefits Do Floating Fetching Toys Provide for Your Dog’s Playtime?
Floating fetching toys offer various benefits for your dog’s playtime, enhancing both their physical activity and mental stimulation.
- Durability: High-quality floating fetching toys are often made from robust materials that can withstand rough play and chewing.
- Safety: Many floating toys are designed with non-toxic materials, ensuring they are safe for your dog to fetch and chew.
- Improved Exercise: These toys encourage physical activity as they can be used in water, promoting swimming and retrieving, which is great for your dog’s fitness.
- Mental Stimulation: Fetching toys engage your dog’s brain as they learn to retrieve and return the toy, enhancing their problem-solving abilities.
- Bonding Time: Playing fetch with a floating toy provides an excellent opportunity for owners to bond with their dogs through interactive play.
- Versatility: Floating fetching toys can be used in various environments, including lakes, pools, and beaches, making them suitable for different types of outdoor activities.
Durability is crucial as these toys are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor play, ensuring they last through multiple fetch sessions without falling apart. Dogs often chew and tug on their toys, so opting for a sturdy material ensures your investment pays off.
Safety is another key benefit; many floating fetching toys are crafted from non-toxic materials, which means you can let your dog play without worrying about harmful substances. This is particularly important for dogs that tend to chew on their toys extensively.
Improved exercise is a significant advantage as floating toys encourage dogs to swim, a low-impact activity that promotes cardiovascular health and muscle tone. Swimming is an excellent way for dogs to expend energy, especially for those that enjoy water activities.
Mental stimulation is also provided as dogs must strategize to retrieve the toy, which can keep their minds sharp and engaged. This interactive play can prevent boredom and associated behavioral issues, particularly in high-energy breeds.
Bonding time is enhanced through shared activities; playing fetch not only strengthens the relationship between you and your dog but also promotes trust and communication. It’s a rewarding experience for both, creating lasting memories.
Versatility allows these toys to be used in various settings, making them ideal for families who enjoy outdoor activities. Whether at the beach or a backyard pool, floating fetching toys can adapt to your dog’s play environment, providing endless fun.
What Are the Most Recommended Floating Fetching Toys for Dogs?
The most recommended floating fetching toys for dogs include:
- Chuckit! Ultra Ball: This highly visible ball is made from durable rubber, enabling it to float on water while being resistant to punctures and wear.
- KONG Aqua: The KONG Aqua is a soft yet sturdy toy that floats, making it perfect for water play and gentle on your dog’s teeth.
- Outward Hound Floatiez: These toys come in various fun shapes and sizes, all designed to float and withstand rough play, making them great for water-loving dogs.
- ZippyPaws Sea Otter: This plush toy features a floating design and is stuffed with squeakers, providing added fun for dogs who love to fetch in the water.
- Petstages Dogwood Stick: Made from a blend of real wood and synthetic materials, this floating stick mimics the feel of a natural stick while being safe and durable for fetching in water.
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is popular among dog owners for its bright color and buoyancy, ensuring it’s easy to spot in water. Its durable rubber construction means it can withstand even the toughest chewers, making it ideal for active play.
The KONG Aqua offers a unique combination of flotation and softness, allowing dogs to carry it comfortably in their mouths. This toy is designed to be gentle on teeth while still being able to withstand rigorous fetching sessions in the water.
The Outward Hound Floatiez are perfect for dogs that enjoy a variety of shapes and textures. With their robust construction, these toys can survive heavy chewing while providing entertainment during water play.
The ZippyPaws Sea Otter stands out for its interactive squeakers, which encourage your dog to engage and play longer. Its plush material is soft enough for gentle play, while the floating feature makes it a fun addition to water games.
The Petstages Dogwood Stick combines the fun of fetching with the familiarity of a natural stick. It’s designed to float, ensuring that it can be easily retrieved from water, and its synthetic material provides a safe alternative to real sticks, reducing the risk of splinters or injury.
How Does the Chuckit! Ultra Ball Enhance Fetching Fun for Dogs?
The Chuckit! Ultra Ball is designed to enhance fetching fun for dogs with its unique features and materials.
- Durable Material: The Ultra Ball is made from high-quality rubber that withstands rough play and tough chewing, making it a long-lasting fetching toy.
- High Visibility: Its bright colors, often in neon shades, ensure that the ball is easy to spot in various environments, whether in grass, water, or sand.
- Floating Capability: This ball is engineered to float on water, making it the best floating fetching toy for dog owners who enjoy beach or pool outings with their pets.
- Easy to Clean: The Ultra Ball’s smooth surface prevents dirt and grime from sticking, allowing for quick and easy cleaning after a muddy play session.
- Compatible with Chuckit! Launchers: The ball is designed to work seamlessly with Chuckit! launchers, providing extended throw distance and reducing strain on the owner’s arm.
The durable material of the Chuckit! Ultra Ball ensures that it can endure the most enthusiastic fetch sessions without losing its shape or integrity, making it a reliable choice for active dogs.
With its high visibility, the ball stands out against various backgrounds, allowing dogs to quickly locate it during playtime, which is essential for keeping their interest and excitement high.
Its ability to float adds another layer of fun, enabling dogs to fetch it from water without any issues, making it particularly beneficial for water-loving breeds.
Cleaning is a breeze due to the smooth surface of the ball, which allows pet owners to maintain hygiene effectively, especially after outdoor adventures.
Lastly, the compatibility with Chuckit! launchers not only enhances the throwing distance but also ensures that fetch games can be enjoyed without tiring out the owner’s arm, making it ideal for longer play sessions.
Why is the KONG Aqua One of the Best Choices for Water Play?
According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, toys that engage dogs’ natural instincts for retrieving and playing promote physical health and mental stimulation. The KONG Aqua, with its floating capability, encourages dogs to swim and retrieve, which aligns with their instinctual behaviors and keeps them physically active.
The buoyancy of the KONG Aqua is crucial; it allows the toy to remain visible and accessible on the water’s surface, facilitating easy retrieval by dogs. Additionally, the material used in the KONG Aqua is designed to withstand the wear and tear of both water and enthusiastic chewing. This durability prevents the toy from breaking apart, reducing the risk of ingestion of harmful pieces, which is a concern with lesser-quality toys. By combining buoyancy with resilient materials, the KONG Aqua not only enhances fun during playtime but also ensures safety, thus reinforcing its status as a top choice for floating fetching toys.
What Safety Tips Should You Keep in Mind When Using Floating Fetching Toys?
When using floating fetching toys for dogs, it’s important to keep several safety tips in mind to ensure a fun and secure playtime.
- Supervision: Always supervise your dog while they are playing with fetching toys in water.
- Size Appropriateness: Choose a toy that is the right size for your dog to prevent choking hazards.
- Durability: Ensure the toy is made from durable materials to withstand rough play and biting.
- Visibility: Select brightly colored toys that are easily visible in water to prevent losing them.
- Check for Damage: Regularly inspect the toy for wear and tear to avoid any potential hazards.
- Hydration Breaks: Make sure to provide your dog with breaks to hydrate and rest, especially in hot weather.
- Water Safety: Be aware of the water conditions, such as currents and temperature, to ensure safe retrieval.
Always supervise your dog while they are playing with fetching toys in water to quickly address any issues that may arise, such as exhaustion or distress.
Choose a toy that is the right size for your dog to prevent choking hazards. A toy that is too small can easily be swallowed, while one that is too large may be difficult for your dog to retrieve.
Ensure the toy is made from durable materials to withstand rough play and biting. Look for toys that are specifically designed for water use and are resistant to damage from both water and your dog’s teeth.
Select brightly colored toys that are easily visible in water to prevent losing them. High-visibility colors enhance your ability to spot the toy from a distance, which can be especially important in murky or deep water.
Regularly inspect the toy for wear and tear to avoid any potential hazards. If you notice cracks, tears, or pieces breaking off, it’s best to replace the toy to ensure your dog’s safety.
Make sure to provide your dog with breaks to hydrate and rest, especially in hot weather. Continuous play in the water can lead to fatigue, so monitor your dog for signs of tiredness and ensure they take breaks as needed.
Be aware of the water conditions, such as currents and temperature, to ensure safe retrieval. If the water is too cold or there are strong currents, it may not be safe for your dog to play, regardless of the fetching toy used.
How Can You Teach Your Dog to Fetch Using a Floating Toy Effectively?
To effectively teach your dog to fetch using a floating toy, consider the following methods and tools:
- Choose the Right Floating Toy: Selecting a toy designed for water play, such as a buoyant frisbee or floating ball, is essential.
- Introduce the Toy Gradually: Allow your dog to familiarize themselves with the toy on land before introducing it to water.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise whenever they show interest in the toy or successfully retrieve it.
- Start in Shallow Water: Begin training in shallow water to build your dog’s confidence and comfort with the toy.
- Practice Regularly: Consistency is key; practice fetching sessions regularly to reinforce the behavior.
Choose the Right Floating Toy: Selecting a floating fetching toy specifically designed for dogs is crucial for success in water play. Look for durable materials that can withstand biting and splashing, as well as bright colors to make the toy easily visible in water. Popular options include rubber balls, floating frisbees, and soft toys that are both buoyant and safe for your dog to chew on.
Introduce the Toy Gradually: Before expecting your dog to fetch in water, let them explore the floating toy on dry land. This helps to create a positive association with the toy, making them more likely to engage with it when it’s in the water. You can toss the toy a short distance on land to encourage them to chase it and retrieve it back to you.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement, so be sure to reward them with treats, praise, or playtime whenever they interact with the toy. This encourages them to associate fetching the toy with positive experiences. When they bring the toy back to you, shower them with affection and rewards to reinforce this behavior.
Start in Shallow Water: When you first introduce the floating toy to water play, begin in shallow areas where your dog can easily access the toy without feeling overwhelmed. This allows your dog to gain confidence in their swimming ability and helps them understand the game of fetch. Gradually increase the depth as they become more comfortable.
Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is essential for reinforcing the fetching behavior. Schedule regular training sessions, keeping them short and fun to maintain your dog’s interest. With repetition, your dog will learn to associate the toy with fetching, leading to improved skills and enjoyment during playtime.
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