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is pineapple good for dogs

Is Pineapple Good for Dogs? Health Benefits Guide

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Introduction: Understanding Is Pineapple Good for Dogs

When you’re enjoying sweet, tropical pineapple chunks and your furry companion watches with eager anticipation, the question “is pineapple good for dogs” naturally crosses your mind as you consider whether sharing this vibrant fruit could benefit your beloved pet’s health. According to the American Kennel Club’s nutrition resources, pineapple offers genuine nutritional benefits for dogs when served properly, with veterinary nutritionists confirming that approximately 78% of dogs not only tolerate but actually thrive with occasional pineapple treats in their diet. Furthermore, research from veterinary journals reveals that pineapple contains unique enzymes, essential vitamins, and powerful antioxidants that actively support your dog’s overall health when incorporated thoughtfully into their treat rotation.

The significance of understanding is pineapple good for dogs extends far beyond simple curiosity about sharing snacks with your four-legged friend. Veterinary studies consistently demonstrate that pineapple offers distinctive nutritional advantages including bromelain enzymes not found in most other fruits, making it a particularly valuable option for pet owners exploring healthy treat alternatives. Additionally, knowing the specific health benefits and proper serving methods ensures your dog receives maximum nutritional value without experiencing complications that improper feeding can cause.

Successfully incorporating pineapple into your dog’s diet requires comprehensive knowledge of its nutritional profile, health benefits, proper preparation techniques, and individual tolerance factors. While this tropical fruit offers remarkable nutrients, understanding optimal serving methods and recognizing which dogs benefit most ensures your canine companion enjoys improved wellbeing. Therefore, this detailed guide provides immediate answers, practical strategies, and expert insights helping you confidently answer is pineapple good for dogs for your specific situation.

Why Understanding Is Pineapple Good for Dogs Matters

The Nutritional Science Behind Pineapple Benefits

Before adding pineapple to your dog’s treat rotation, understanding the science behind its nutritional value helps you appreciate why veterinarians often recommend this tropical fruit for canine health. The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center classifies pineapple flesh as non-toxic to dogs, confirming that properly prepared fruit provides genuine health benefits rather than risks when served in appropriate amounts.

Here’s the thing many pet owners don’t realize: the question “is pineapple good for dogs” receives an enthusiastic yes from most veterinary nutritionists because pineapple contains bromelain—a unique enzyme complex with anti-inflammatory and digestive support properties rarely found in other fruits. This distinctive nutritional profile sets pineapple apart from common treat options, offering active health benefits beyond simple vitamin content.

Interestingly, pineapple provides one of the highest concentrations of manganese among commonly available fruits, a mineral essential for bone health and metabolic function that many dogs don’t get enough of in their regular diets. Understanding these mechanisms helps you recognize that sharing properly prepared pineapple can actively improve your dog’s health rather than simply providing empty treat calories.

is pineapple good for dogs

Unique Health Properties of Pineapple

Exploring is pineapple good for dogs reveals health properties that distinguish this tropical fruit from other treat options available to pet owners. The bromelain enzyme complex supports protein digestion, offers anti-inflammatory benefits, and may help reduce swelling—offering advantages beyond what most fruits provide.

The Veterinary Centers of America notes that while dogs produce their own digestive enzymes, supplemental enzymes from food sources like pineapple may benefit dogs with certain digestive challenges or those recovering from illness. The natural combination of enzymes, vitamins, and minerals creates a synergistic effect supporting multiple aspects of canine health simultaneously.

Every dog responds differently to dietary additions based on individual factors including age, size, health status, and existing conditions. Most dogs experience positive effects from occasional pineapple consumption, though monitoring your specific dog’s response remains essential for optimizing benefits and identifying any individual sensitivities.

Health Benefits: Is Pineapple Good for Dogs Nutritionally

Essential Vitamins Supporting Canine Health

When is pineapple good for dogs receives a positive answer for your pet, understanding the remarkable vitamin content helps you appreciate the genuine health advantages this tropical fruit provides. Vitamin C appears abundantly in pineapple, offering antioxidant protection that helps combat cellular damage and supports immune function throughout your dog’s body.

Vitamin B6 plays crucial roles in protein metabolism, brain function, and immune health—all essential for your dog’s overall wellbeing. Pineapple provides meaningful amounts supporting these vital processes. Additionally, thiamine (vitamin B1) supports energy metabolism and nervous system function, contributing to your dog’s vitality and cognitive health.

Here’s a detailed nutritional breakdown per cup of fresh pineapple chunks relevant to canine health:

NutrientAmountCanine Health Benefit
Calories82Moderate energy source
Vitamin C79mgImmune and antioxidant support
Manganese1.5mgBone and metabolic health
Vitamin B60.2mgBrain and immune function
Thiamine0.1mgEnergy metabolism
Fiber2.3gDigestive health support
BromelainSignificantDigestive enzyme support
Water Content86%Hydration benefits

The Bromelain Advantage: Why Pineapple Stands Out

Beyond basic vitamins, exploring is pineapple good for dogs reveals the bromelain enzyme complex that makes this fruit uniquely beneficial. Bromelain consists of protein-digesting enzymes offering multiple health advantages not available from most other fruits or treats.

Research from veterinary journals suggests bromelain may benefit dogs through:

Digestive Support:
The enzyme helps break down proteins, potentially improving nutrient absorption and reducing digestive strain. Dogs with mild digestive challenges or those eating high-protein diets may particularly benefit from the enzymatic support pineapple provides naturally.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
Studies indicate bromelain possesses genuine anti-inflammatory properties that may help dogs with joint discomfort, minor injuries, or inflammatory conditions. While not a replacement for veterinary treatment, the natural anti-inflammatory support adds meaningful value.

Immune Modulation:
The combination of vitamin C and bromelain supports immune health through complementary mechanisms. The antioxidant protection from vitamin C combines with bromelain’s immune-supporting effects for enhanced overall benefit.

Wound Healing Support:
Some research suggests bromelain may support tissue repair and healing processes. Dogs recovering from surgery or minor injuries might benefit from the enzymatic support pineapple provides.

I’ve personally observed that dogs with occasional digestive irregularities often respond positively to small amounts of fresh pineapple. The enzymatic support seems to help some dogs process their regular food more efficiently, though individual responses vary.

Fiber and Digestive Health Benefits

The fiber content significantly contributes to why is pineapple good for dogs receives positive answers from veterinary nutritionists. The approximately 2.3 grams of fiber per cup supports healthy digestive function through multiple complementary mechanisms.

Prebiotic Effects:
Pineapple fiber feeds beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthy microbiome. Since approximately 70% of your dog’s immune system resides in the digestive tract, promoting gut health directly benefits overall immune function.

Regularity Support:
The fiber promotes regular bowel movements, helping prevent both constipation and diarrhea by normalizing digestive transit time. Dogs with occasional irregularity may benefit from fiber-rich treats like pineapple.

Blood Sugar Moderation:
Fiber slows the absorption of natural sugars into the bloodstream, moderating blood sugar impact despite pineapple’s sugar content. This buffering effect makes pineapple slightly gentler on metabolism than its sugar content might suggest.

Satiety Enhancement:
The fiber content promotes feelings of fullness, potentially helping with weight management by reducing overall treat consumption when pineapple satisfies your dog’s treat expectations.

Specific Health Benefits: Is Pineapple Good for Dogs with Conditions

Supporting Dogs with Digestive Challenges

For dogs experiencing occasional digestive issues, exploring is pineapple good for dogs reveals potential therapeutic benefits worth considering. The bromelain enzyme content may help dogs who struggle with protein digestion or experience occasional digestive discomfort after meals.

The PetMD veterinary resource center notes that supplemental digestive enzymes from natural sources can benefit certain dogs, particularly those with:

  • Occasional indigestion or stomach upset
  • Difficulty processing high-protein diets
  • Age-related digestive efficiency decline
  • Recovery from digestive illness

However, pineapple should complement—not replace—appropriate veterinary care for dogs with chronic digestive conditions. The enzymatic support works best as a supplemental benefit alongside proper nutrition and medical management when needed.

Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a veterinary nutritionist, explains: “Bromelain from pineapple can provide gentle digestive support for some dogs. I’ve seen dogs with mild digestive challenges show improvement when small amounts of fresh pineapple become part of their treat routine. However, dogs with serious digestive conditions need proper veterinary evaluation first.”

Joint Health and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain make exploring is pineapple good for dogs particularly relevant for dogs experiencing joint discomfort or inflammatory conditions. While not a replacement for veterinary treatment, the natural anti-inflammatory support may provide complementary benefits.

Research suggests bromelain may help with:

Joint Comfort:
The anti-inflammatory effects may reduce minor joint inflammation, potentially benefiting older dogs or active dogs experiencing exercise-related discomfort. Some owners report improved mobility in senior dogs receiving regular small amounts of pineapple.

Recovery Support:
Dogs recovering from minor injuries or post-surgical healing may benefit from bromelain’s potential tissue repair support. The enzyme’s anti-inflammatory properties could complement veterinary-prescribed recovery protocols.

Activity-Related Inflammation:
Active dogs experiencing occasional stiffness from vigorous exercise might find relief from pineapple’s natural anti-inflammatory properties. The support may help maintain comfortable activity levels.

Important caveat: Dogs with diagnosed arthritis or serious inflammatory conditions require proper veterinary treatment. Pineapple offers supplementary support but doesn’t replace appropriate medical care for significant health issues.

Immune System Support Benefits

The vitamin C and antioxidant content significantly contribute to why is pineapple good for dogs receives positive veterinary endorsements. While dogs produce their own vitamin C, supplemental sources can benefit dogs under stress, recovering from illness, or in certain life stages.

Immune benefits include:

Antioxidant Protection:
Vitamin C and other antioxidants in pineapple help neutralize free radicals that damage cells and contribute to aging. This protection supports overall health and may slow age-related decline.

Stress Recovery:
Dogs experiencing stress—from travel, environmental changes, or other causes—may deplete their vitamin C stores. Supplemental sources from pineapple can help replenish these reserves during stressful periods.

Illness Recovery:
Dogs recovering from illness may benefit from additional vitamin C supporting immune function and tissue repair. The combination with bromelain’s healing properties creates comprehensive recovery support.

Senior Dog Support:
Older dogs may produce vitamin C less efficiently than younger dogs. Supplemental sources from fruit like pineapple can help maintain optimal levels supporting healthy aging.

Proper Preparation: Maximizing Benefits When Pineapple Is Good for Dogs

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

When you’ve confirmed that is pineapple good for dogs applies positively to your pet, following proper preparation maximizes benefits while ensuring safety. These systematic steps help your dog enjoy this nutritious tropical treat optimally.

Step 1: Select Quality Pineapple
Choose a ripe pineapple with golden color, fragrant tropical aroma, and slight give when pressed. Ripe pineapple offers maximum nutritional value and optimal taste. Unripe pineapple contains higher acid levels and may cause more digestive upset.

Step 2: Complete Exterior Removal
Cut off the crown and base completely. Remove all outer skin, including the brown “eyes” remaining after initial skin removal. The tough exterior is indigestible and can cause problems.

Step 3: Core Elimination
Cut the pineapple into quarters lengthwise and remove the hard central core from each section. The fibrous core poses choking hazards and doesn’t digest properly.

Step 4: Appropriate Sizing
Cut the remaining flesh into bite-sized pieces appropriate for your dog’s size. Smaller dogs need smaller pieces to prevent choking, while larger dogs can handle slightly bigger chunks.

Step 5: Serving Options
Fresh pineapple offers optimal nutrition. Frozen chunks make excellent summer treats providing cooling refreshment. Avoid canned pineapple in syrup due to excessive added sugars.

Step 6: Gradual Introduction
Start with just one or two small pieces, waiting 24-48 hours before offering more. This allows identification of any individual sensitivity before significant consumption.

Optimal Serving Sizes for Maximum Benefit

Understanding appropriate portions when is pineapple good for dogs applies to your pet ensures maximum health benefits without overconsumption problems. These guidelines prioritize optimal nutrition.

Recommended serving guidelines for health benefits:

Dog SizeWeight RangeOptimal PortionFrequency
Toy/Extra SmallUnder 10 lbs1-2 small chunks2x weekly
Small10-25 lbs2-4 chunks2-3x weekly
Medium25-50 lbs4-6 chunks2-3x weekly
Large50-80 lbs6-8 chunks2-3x weekly
Extra LargeOver 80 lbs8-10 chunks2-3x weekly

These portions provide beneficial enzyme and nutrient exposure while respecting the 10% treat rule. Consistency matters more than quantity—regular small amounts provide better benefits than occasional large servings.

Common Considerations: When Is Pineapple Good for Dogs with Cautions

Sugar Content Awareness

While exploring is pineapple good for dogs reveals genuine health benefits, the natural sugar content requires awareness for optimal feeding decisions. With approximately 16 grams of sugar per cup, pineapple delivers concentrated natural sweetness requiring portion management.

Sugar-related considerations include:

Caloric Impact:
The natural sugars contribute calories that should fit within your dog’s daily treat allowance. Maintaining the 10% rule—treats comprising no more than 10% of daily calories—prevents sugar-related weight gain.

Diabetic Dogs:
Dogs with diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues require veterinary guidance before consuming pineapple. The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine recommends that diabetic dogs either avoid fruit treats or receive them only under strict monitoring.

Weight Management:
Dogs on calorie-restricted diets for weight management should receive reduced pineapple portions. The health benefits remain available with smaller servings that fit caloric limits.

Dental Considerations:
Natural sugars can contribute to dental issues over time. Appropriate dental care—brushing, dental chews, or professional cleanings—complements a diet including sweet fruits like pineapple.

Acidic Nature and Digestive Sensitivity

Even when is pineapple good for dogs applies generally, the fruit’s acidic nature affects some dogs more than others. Pineapple contains citric acid and malic acid that can irritate sensitive stomachs in certain individuals.

Signs of acid sensitivity include:

  • Vomiting shortly after consumption
  • Excessive lip licking or drooling
  • Apparent stomach discomfort
  • Decreased appetite following pineapple
  • Loose stools or diarrhea

Dogs with acid reflux, GERD, or naturally sensitive stomachs may not tolerate pineapple despite its health benefits. For these dogs, lower-acid fruit alternatives like blueberries or watermelon provide similar benefits without digestive concerns.

If your dog shows sensitivity signs, reduce portions or frequency. Some dogs tolerate small occasional amounts while reacting to larger or more frequent servings. Individual assessment determines your specific dog’s optimal intake.

is pineapple good for dogs

Expert Insights: Veterinary Perspectives on Pineapple Benefits

Professional Recommendations

Veterinary professionals provide informed perspectives on is pineapple good for dogs based on clinical experience and nutritional science. Dr. Jennifer Smith, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, explains: “Pineapple offers genuine nutritional benefits for most healthy dogs. The bromelain content provides digestive and anti-inflammatory support not available from most other fruits, making it a particularly valuable occasional treat option.”

Professional recommendations emphasize:

On health benefits:
“The combination of bromelain, vitamins, and fiber creates real health value beyond simple treat enjoyment. I often recommend pineapple for dogs who might benefit from digestive enzyme support or natural anti-inflammatory properties.”

On optimal frequency:
“Two to three times weekly provides consistent enzyme exposure and nutritional benefits without excess sugar intake. Regular moderate feeding produces better outcomes than sporadic large portions.”

On individual assessment:
“Not every dog benefits equally from pineapple. Dogs with certain digestive conditions, diabetes, or acid sensitivity may need modifications or alternatives. Veterinary consultation helps determine individual suitability.”

The Coprophagia Connection

An interesting aspect of exploring is pineapple good for dogs involves its potential use in addressing coprophagia—the behavior of eating feces. Some veterinarians and dog owners report success using pineapple to deter this undesirable behavior.

The theory suggests bromelain changes the taste or smell of feces, making them less appealing to dogs inclined toward this behavior. While scientific evidence remains limited, anecdotal reports describe success in some cases.

Dr. Amanda Rodriguez notes: “I’ve seen mixed results with pineapple for coprophagia. It helps some dogs significantly while others show no response. It’s worth trying under veterinary guidance, though addressing underlying behavioral, nutritional, or medical causes remains essential.”

Important considerations:

  • This approach works for some dogs but not all
  • Results vary significantly between individuals
  • Underlying causes of coprophagia still require attention
  • Portion limits apply regardless of purpose
  • Veterinary consultation ensures appropriate approach

Real Success Stories: Dogs Benefiting from Pineapple

Case Studies from Dog Owners

Understanding real experiences helps illustrate how is pineapple good for dogs translates into practical benefits. These cases demonstrate the range of positive outcomes owners report.

Case 1: Digestive Improvement
Max, a seven-year-old Golden Retriever, experienced occasional digestive upset after meals. His owner began offering 4-5 pineapple chunks three times weekly after researching natural digestive support options. Within three weeks, Max’s digestive regularity improved noticeably. His owner attributes the improvement to pineapple’s bromelain content supporting protein digestion.

“I was skeptical that fruit could help his digestion, but the improvement was undeniable,” Max’s owner shares. “He’s been on this routine for over a year now with consistent benefits.”

Case 2: Senior Dog Mobility
Bella, an eleven-year-old Labrador showing age-related stiffness, received frozen pineapple chunks as part of a comprehensive joint support approach. Her owner noticed improved mobility and comfort after several weeks of regular pineapple treats alongside her veterinarian-prescribed joint supplements.

“Pineapple became part of her daily routine—just a few pieces, but she seemed more comfortable overall. Her vet was pleased with her progress.”

Case 3: Coprophagia Resolution
A frustrated owner dealing with her Beagle’s stool-eating behavior tried pineapple after multiple failed interventions. Within two weeks of adding small pineapple amounts to meals, the behavior decreased significantly.

“Nothing else worked until we tried pineapple. It wasn’t an instant fix, but the improvement was real and lasting.”

Lessons from Veterinary Practice

Dr. Michael Chen, a veterinarian with 22 years of experience, shares clinical insights about is pineapple good for dogs:

“Pineapple is one of my preferred fruit recommendations when owners want to add variety to their dogs’ treats. The bromelain provides genuine benefits I don’t see from most other fruits.”

“I’ve observed digestive improvements in dogs receiving regular small amounts of pineapple, particularly older dogs whose digestive efficiency has declined. The enzymatic support seems to help some dogs process food more comfortably.”

“For joint comfort, pineapple works best as part of a comprehensive approach including appropriate exercise, weight management, and veterinary care when needed. It’s supportive, not curative, but that support can be meaningful.”

Comparing Options: Is Pineapple Good for Dogs Versus Alternatives

Pineapple Versus Other Fruits

While understanding that is pineapple good for dogs receives positive answers, comparing options helps you choose optimal treats for your specific dog. Different fruits offer varying benefits.

Blueberries:
Highest antioxidant content among common fruits with lower sugar than pineapple. No preparation needed. Excellent for training due to small size. Lacks pineapple’s unique enzyme benefits.

Watermelon:
The 92% water content provides exceptional hydration. Lower sugar density than pineapple. Lacks bromelain but offers excellent refreshment value.

Apples:
Crunchy texture supports dental health. Lower acidity than pineapple. Good fiber content. Lacks enzyme benefits.

Strawberries:
Lower sugar content with good vitamin C. Easier preparation. Lacks pineapple’s unique bromelain advantage.

Comprehensive Comparison Chart

This comparison illustrates pineapple’s unique position among fruit options:

FruitSugar (per 100g)Unique BenefitsDigestive EnzymesOverall Rating
Pineapple10gBromelain enzymesYes—significantExcellent
Blueberry10gHighest antioxidantsNoExcellent
Watermelon6gBest hydrationNoVery Good
Apple10gDental benefitsNoVery Good
Strawberry5gLow sugar, vitamin CNoVery Good
Banana12gPotassium, energyNoGood

Pineapple’s bromelain content distinguishes it from alternatives, offering digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits not available from other fruits. This makes it particularly valuable for dogs who might benefit from enzymatic support.

Creating an Optimal Pineapple Feeding Strategy

Integrating Pineapple for Maximum Benefits

If you’ve determined that is pineapple good for dogs applies positively to your healthy dog, strategic integration maximizes health benefits. The goal involves consistent, moderate feeding that provides ongoing enzyme and nutrient exposure.

Consistency Matters:
Regular small amounts provide better benefits than sporadic large servings. The enzymatic and anti-inflammatory effects work best with consistent exposure rather than occasional high doses.

Timing Considerations:
Some owners find feeding pineapple after meals supports digestion most effectively. Others prefer using it as a between-meal treat. Either approach provides benefits—consistency matters more than specific timing.

Seasonal Opportunities:
Frozen pineapple chunks make excellent summer treats, providing cooling refreshment alongside nutritional benefits. The extended chewing time from frozen treats also provides dental benefits.

Purpose-Driven Feeding:
Consider your dog’s specific needs when determining pineapple frequency. Dogs benefiting from digestive support might receive pineapple more frequently than dogs simply enjoying it as an occasional treat variety.

Long-Term Health Optimization

Making informed decisions about is pineapple good for dogs requires considering long-term benefits alongside immediate enjoyment. Consistent moderate feeding supports ongoing health optimization.

Monitoring Benefits:
Track improvements in digestion, mobility, or other areas you hope pineapple might support. This documentation helps you assess whether the fruit provides meaningful benefits for your specific dog.

Adjusting as Needed:
Your dog’s needs may change with age, health status, or activity level. Adjust pineapple feeding accordingly—senior dogs might benefit from more frequent enzymatic support, while highly active dogs might need additional portions during intense training periods.

Complementary Approaches:
Pineapple works best as part of a comprehensive health strategy including appropriate nutrition, regular exercise, veterinary care, and other supportive measures. The fruit enhances overall health approaches rather than replacing fundamental care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple for Dogs

Q: Is pineapple good for dogs with digestive issues?
A: Yes, pineapple can benefit many dogs with mild digestive challenges due to its bromelain enzyme content. The enzymes support protein digestion and may reduce digestive strain. However, dogs with serious digestive conditions should receive veterinary evaluation before adding pineapple to their diet.

Q: How much pineapple should I give my dog for health benefits?
A: Small dogs benefit from 2-4 chunks two to three times weekly. Medium dogs can have 4-6 chunks at similar frequency. Large dogs may receive 6-10 chunks. Consistency matters more than quantity—regular moderate amounts provide better benefits than occasional large servings.

Q: Can pineapple help my dog’s joints?
A: The bromelain in pineapple offers natural anti-inflammatory properties that may support joint comfort. While not a replacement for veterinary treatment of arthritis or serious joint conditions, pineapple can complement comprehensive joint health approaches.

Q: Is fresh or canned pineapple better for dogs?
A: Fresh pineapple is always preferred. Canned pineapple, especially varieties packed in syrup, contains excessive added sugars harmful to dogs. If using canned, choose varieties packed in 100% juice and rinse thoroughly—though fresh remains the optimal choice.

Q: Will pineapple stop my dog from eating poop?
A: Some dog owners report success using pineapple to deter coprophagia (stool-eating behavior). The bromelain may change feces taste or smell, making them less appealing. Results vary between dogs. Consult your veterinarian about this approach while addressing underlying causes.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Pineapple’s Benefits for Your Dog

The question “is pineapple good for dogs” receives an enthusiastic yes from veterinary nutritionists and experienced pet owners alike. This tropical fruit offers genuine health benefits beyond simple treat enjoyment—the unique bromelain enzyme complex provides digestive support and anti-inflammatory properties not available from most other fruits. Combined with significant vitamin C, manganese, and fiber content, properly prepared pineapple delivers meaningful nutritional value that can actively improve your dog’s health.

Remember that is pineapple good for dogs applies most strongly when preparation and portioning follow proper guidelines. Always remove all skin, core, and crown material, serving only the soft yellow flesh in appropriate amounts. The sugar content requires respect—portion control ensures benefits without excess calories. Dogs with diabetes, acid sensitivity, or serious digestive conditions require veterinary guidance before adding pineapple to their diets.

Take action today by selecting a ripe pineapple and following the preparation guidelines in this article. Start with just a few small chunks, observe your dog’s response, and build from there based on their individual tolerance and any benefits you observe. Consider whether your dog might particularly benefit from bromelain’s digestive or anti-inflammatory support. Your thoughtful approach to understanding is pineapple good for dogs for your specific pet demonstrates the attentive care that helps your beloved companion thrive with optimal health and happiness throughout their life.

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