Posts Tagged ‘People’

Museum gains TSA certification to ship valuable artwork

DALLAS—When the value of the goods you’re shipping are often considered priceless, it’s imperative that only highly-trained personnel handle it. Thus, because it is entrusted with such valuable artwork, the Dallas Museum of Art was concerned with a Congressional mandate, set to take effect in August, that jeopardized its ability to control and oversee the safe transport of art. 

As part of the 9/11 Commission Act signed in 2007, Congress required that 100 percent of all cargo be screened prior to transportation on passenger airplanes. From the museum’s perspective, this mandate meant that crates packed by qualified museum personnel must be opened and inspected at the airport prior to loading. But, allowing untrained third-party personnel to touch valuable artwork was not a risk the museum was willing to take.

“We were apprehensive about sending goods to the airport to ship because we don’t know the level of skill their security people have when it comes to pieces that we think need to have special attention,” said Lance Childers, director of security at the Dallas Museum of Art, during a tour sponsored by ASIS International as a preview to their annual seminar here on Oct. 12-15.

For the last year and a half, the museum has been undergoing an intense process to qualify as a certified cargo screening facility (CCSF) through the Transportation Security Administration. On April 23, the museum received its certification, ensuring its personnel will be the last people to handle artwork before arrival at its destination.

As part of its certification, the museum has established four TSA-certified Designated Screening Areas throughout its facility. These sterile environments have posted signage restricting unauthorized personnel from entering the area. Only employees who have undergone TSA background checks and training are allowed to enter the DSA.

“We do physical screening on every empty crate and thoroughly search for things like IEDs,” said Brent Mitchell, registrar of exhibitions and loans for the museum. Surprisingly, this new system isn’t all that different than the museum’s standard packing protocol. “This [new certification] isn’t changing the way we do our packing,” Mitchell said. “We weren’t checking for bombs before, but we were inspecting for debris in crates, which can compromise art.”

In addition to searching for foreign objects, museum employees who are responsible for packing crates must secure it with tamper evident tape. If this tape is removed, it leaves the word ‘open’ on the container and alerts airport inspectors that the integrity of the crate has been jeopardized. Each crate also has a unique code that is recorded on a TSA log and is verified prior to shipment. 

At the end of May, the museum will ship its first exhibition as a CCSF. Mitchell expects it will take between 10 days and two weeks to complete the packing process. “The first week we’ll have all personnel taking down the exhibit and then the last three to four days we will have only certified personnel in the DSA” completing the shipment, he said. Currently, the museum has 12 people TSA-certified, but could increase that number depending on the size of the exhibits.

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Museum gains TSA certification to ship valuable artwork


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    Crate Training for Puppies – how long …?

    I have a 9 week old Mini Schnauzer – Since I got him a week ago, every night we’ve been crate training him. He’s been very good with his toilet training with only a handful of accidents in the house, but generally if he has a day time nap, i let him sleep where ever he likes but at night it’s in his crate.My question is how much longer do people recommend crate training for? I’m keen for him to continue for the next week, but there after would like to see how he goes in a bed.The great thing is that during the day when we’re out or at work, he has access to a dog door which he’s mastered to go outside.What are other people’s experiences with crate training and timing? Thanks

    Crate Training for Puppies – how long …?


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    Is it normal to have so many “enemies” at such a young age?

    I’m 15 years old. Okay.1) I had a very close friend in 1-3 grade. We did everything together. All of a sudden, she didn’t come back for 4th grade at our school and didn’t answer my calls ever again. I was devastated and it took me until 8th grade to get over it completely. 2) I started to help out at a dog kennel around 4th grade and raced sled dogs. We got a dog from them that was an older retired one. Instead of kenneling him like they did his whole life, we let him live in “luxury” so to speak. While I was on vacation, he got sick and stopped eating. Well, he coughed up part of a leash so we think he might have pulled a leash through his crate at night and chewed it up. My parents opted not to do surgery because he was 10 years old and might not survive it much less live long after that even if he made it through. I was devastated when I got home. The owners of the kennel now hate me because it is somehow my fault that he died.3) I traveled with a show dog breeder for a few years and helped them out at shows. Well, they hate me now. I am not sure why but I think it is because they think I don’t appreciate all they did for me and that I got a pet quality dog instead of a show dog when I had the chance to get another dog.4) My dad hates me because I’m basically a disappointment…I don’t really know how, but I just am. When I got back from a dog traveling thing the exact words that came out of his mouth were, “Things were so much better when you were gone. We had a blast….this proves that you are the source of our family’s problems.” My siblings sometimes hate me but I consider that normal. hahaBut yeah, is it normal to just have people randomly hate you? I’m not talking about a parent that is upset after I do something and then gets over it. I’m talking about a parent that is constantly putting me down, insulting me, and blaming me for many things I don’t do. Am I an over reactant teen or am I just a terrible, hate-able person? Thanks!

    Is it normal to have so many “enemies” at such a young age?


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    Is Daycare Right for Your English Bulldog Puppy? « YUG.com

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    Some new English Bulldog puppy owners are hesitant to let anyone else care for their new baby or to leave them at all. But eventually you have to go to work or the store or a business trip or vacation and you don’t want your English Bulldog puppy to have separation anxiety. This is just one reason doggie daycare may be a great idea for your pup!

    English Bulldog puppiesare naturally very social dogs and love to meet new dogs and people as much as possible. It’s also very healthy for your puppy to meet as many new people, animals and be in different situations as much as possible so that he grows up well adjusted. As a puppy, your English Bulldog may not be old enough to be left alone for 8 hours while you’re at work. That is where doggie daycare comes in handy! You can take your English Bulldog puppy there to play, meet new friends and get plenty of exercise instead of sitting in a crate or being home alone while you’re at work. Socialization is a key part in helping your English Bulldog puppy to grow up healthy and what better way to get that for your puppy than at a place with lots of dogs to play with?

    Find a few different doggie daycares in your area and go to each of them to see what the facility is like and if you’re comfortable leaving your English Bulldog puppy with the people that work there. Be sure to visits at least 3 different places before you make a decision to ensure you have a few different choices and perspectives. Once you find a daycare you and your puppy will like, try leaving him there just for an hour or two to see how he does. If you feel he’ll have fun, be happy and adjust well to playing with other dogs during the day, sign him up to have a day full of fun to keep him busy, healthy and happy!

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    For more information on different dog breeds, dog training and English Bulldog puppies for sale please visit our website http://www.puppymatch4you.com/.

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    Is Daycare Right for Your English Bulldog Puppy? « YUG.com


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    The Importance of Dog Kennels

    If you are thinking about getting a puppy or a dog, then no doubt you have done some research about the best way to train them to make sure they are going to be a wonderful addition to your home. You only need to do a little research to know that dog kennels are the best, more successful way to have your puppy trained in a matter of days. The reason teaching your dog to behave in a kennel is effective is because when your puppy is in a kennel, he is less likely to get into something he should not elsewhere in the house. Many puppies die because they eat something that is poisonous in their first year. Kenneling can keep your dog safe.

    Some people think that dog kennels are cruel or mean. Actually, if you get a kennel that is the right size for your dog, it will become a safe place that they will look forward to every day. Because dogs started off in caves and dens, the kennel actually speaks to a dog’s instincts to want to be tucked away comfortably in a small space. How do you choose the right size dog kennel? The rule of thumb is that you want the kennel to be big enough to allow the dog to stand and turn around to eat. You don’t want to get a kennel that is too big because then your dog might have anxiety. Dogs tend to have an easier time relaxing when they have just enough room to stand.

    When you finally do decide on the right dog kennel, you then need to get a few accessories to put inside of it. If you have a puppy, in order to combat separation anxiety, put a blanket or towel in the kennel that smells like you. Since dogs rely very heavily on scent, this will remind them of you and they will be comforted. In addition, when you first start introducing your dog to the kennel, take your time.

    You should not leave your dog alone in the kennel for many hours at first. You must gradually build to that amount of time. When you are first getting your dog used to the kennel, it should only be supervised short durations of time. If your dog begins to bark or whine, redirect the dog’s attention and correct it. Only let them out of the kennel after they have stopped barking or whining. If you let them out when they are whining or barking, you are creating a bad habit for them.

    The Importance of Dog Kennels


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    Dog Training Tips That Work Best For Smart Dogs

    Just because some dogs are hard to train doesn’t mean that there is something wrong with them. Contrary to what most people believe, these dogs are not in any way stupid. In fact, these dogs might even possess quite a high level of intelligence – high enough to let them get what they want when they want it!

    Aside from independence and dominance, there are some other traits that might get in the way of your dog training efforts. A dog with a high level of intelligence and determination may also be hard to train. Here are the reasons why:

    Smart Dogs Are Hard To Train Intelligence, not stupidity, makes dog training quite a difficult task. Why? This is because most of the hard-to-train breeds are natural born hunters and fighters. They must rely heavily on their brain power in order to survive.

    These dogs might be too intelligent for our own good. They can easily see through us – they know our moods and know just how far they can push us around. Intelligent dogs can easily manipulate things and even us owners to get just what they want. You can tell whether your dog is a genius if he or she displays these characteristics:

    .Intelligent dogs find a lot of new ways to get into trouble

    .They quickly find an exit even when presented with a see-through barrier such as a chain-link fence

    .They have the ability to understand your words quickly

    .They respond to your commands based on their evaluation of your moods

    A Dogged Determination Can Also Hinder Your Dog Training Efforts

    Determined dogs can be difficult to train especially when they have already set their hearts and minds on something. Once this happens, say goodbye to your dog training efforts for the meantime – you would find it quite difficult to divert your dog’s attention to the exercises anyway!

    How would your know that you have a determined dog? Here are some signs that will tell you whether your dog has this trait:

    .Your dog’s attention might be temporarily diverted by a special treat such as a toy or a cookie but once he or she is through with it, the dog will return to fulfilling his or her original goal. Whether it might be digging flower beds or anything that might be buried underground, munching on your sofa or chewing cords, you can count on your determined dog to get what it wants and have it his/her own way no matter how long it may take!

    .Your dog shows a marked obsessive behavior and ignores physical correction.

    Dog Training Techniques For These Types of Dogs

    If your dog shows any of these traits, training can be difficult but not at all impossible to accomplish. You just need to know what attitudes and exercises work with them best. For example, in working with intelligent dogs, be sure to include a lot of variations in your dog training sessions. Also include activities that will stimulate your dog’s brain. You should devise new ways of hiding toys and following trails to encourage the animal to use much of his or her brain power and keep his/her interest in your dog training sessions.

    For determined dogs, however, you should do just the opposite. These animals get the most from their dog training exercises if there are fewer variations and more repetitions of the same routines. Showing that you are having fun during your dog training sessions may likewise do determined dogs a lot of good!

    Dog Training Tips That Work Best For Smart Dogs


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    Jessies Buying Tips To Abide By When Purchasing Dog Crate Beds …

    Dog crates were designed to look like little dog houses, it might be easier to convince people that they are — not — cages! First, let’s talk about what a crate actually is and how they will be able to improve your relationship with your dog.

    Way back, when dogs were still wild animals, they often slept in dens – shallow holes they dug in the ground hidden away in places where they felt safe from predators. These were little, dark places, just large enough to turn around in and to lie down comfortably.

    Even after centuries of selective breeding and living in individual’s homes, dogs still retain some of their ancient instincts. One of the instincts is a desire to get a den – a little, cozy place of their very own where they can feel safe and secure.

    A dog crate bed

    Jessies Buying Tips To Abide By When Purchasing Dog Crate Beds …


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      House Breaking Your Dog – Puppy Crate Training Tips For Your Puppy

      When house breaking a new puppy, people will often use the crate to teach them not to relieve themselves in the home. Dogs need to learn where to go to the bathroom.

      They will make mistakes so don’t punish them severely. You just want to scold them and reward them when they go where you want them to. And don’t try to teach them the whole backyard is the right spot. Teach them that THIS spot is where they go when it is time.

      It usually takes 7 days before they will get the hint and start going to the right spot on their own. With a puppy, you need to be watching them all the time. If they make a mistake it was your fault not the dogs. Watch them closely and when you see them making the signs of getting ready, immediately take them outside. And reward them with a treat and praise after a good job.

      Now, you probably can’t be with your puppy around the clock 24 hours a day so that is where the crate comes in. The crate is used as a sort of control. Dogs will not go potty where they sleep unless they are sick.

      So the crate should be sized for your dog. They should be able to sprawl out but that is all the room they have. There should be no spare space on the floor of your crate if it is sized correctly.

      So when they are in the crate they really have no place to go. This means you can’t leave them in the crate too long. A seven month old puppy can’t be expected to hold it more than 7 hours. Two month olds can only last about 2 hours max.

      The idea is to put them in the crate at night and when you leave the house. Not only will this be a nice safe and secure home for them but they will soon learn outside is where they relieve themselves.

      You will still have to keep an eye on them inside the home when they are out of the crate.

      And remember to take them outside as soon as you let them out of the crate.

      Some tips for using a dog crate:

      Do not force them into the crate. Start slow by leaving the door tied open the first day. Let your dog explore the crate on its own. Feed the dog in the crate and close the crate door for a short time. Extend the amount of time you leave them inside as the day goes on until they get used to being inside with the door closed.

      If you have trouble getting them to go inside the crate, start playing fetch and toss the toy into the crate. They will soon get comfortable with it.

      The first night they stay in the crate, they may whine. Reasure them but try to get them to settle down. You can move the crate into your bedroom if you have to. But quickly have a set place for the crate.

      Soon your dog will start going in the crate on their own and taking naps inside. Have a crate blanket for them to get used to sleeping on.

      Take off any dog collars before you crate your dog. They could get something caught inside the cage and be injured. It would be easy for them to choke if something gets hung up while inside the cage.

      Never use the crate as punishment or put your dog in the crate when you are angry at them. The dog should only consider the crate as a safe and comfortable place that is their own. It is not a punishment to be in the crate.

      If your dog is sick and has diarrhea don’t put him in the crate. They will have no choice but to mess in the crate. It will be defeating your purpose of crating if they get used to going potty inside the crate.

      Only put food and water in the crate when you are home. Don’t leave food or water inside if you are leaving. Also you just leave food and water inside for short periods of time. The crate is for sleeping and that is why they don’t relieve themselves in there.

      Soon, your dog will learn to always go outside but it is your duty to watch them all the time until they learn this. Watch for the signals that they need to get outside and immediately take them.

      Using a crate is a great way to train your puppy. And you should be able to house break the dog within 7 days. You paying attention and catching them before they have a mistake is the key. If you reward good behavior, you dog will catch on pretty fast.

      It is most important to remember the crate is never punishment so never yell at the dog when you want her to go in the cage. Always say it like it is a super fun idea and praise her for getting in the crate.

      It is only a matter of time until she will use the crate for napping a lot. It is really a den inside the house for your dog.

      House Breaking Your Dog – Puppy Crate Training Tips For Your Puppy


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      Crate training for dogs

      The Cornish Rex is a unique looking and playful cat, the most striking thing about the Cornish Rex is the appearance of the coat. This cat is easily identified because it’s coat is very short and often appears to have a slight curl in it. This feature coupled with their sleek looking agile body and galloping run has earned them the name “Greyhound” of the cat family.

      The Cornish Rex is a great breed for people who suffer from allergies. This cat is said to be hypoallergenic, although no cat is completely hypoallergenic this breed has a greatly reduced allergy rate. This is due to the unique coat.

      Click to read more …

      Crate training for dogs


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        Free Class For Dog Owners

        WOODBRIDGE—Woodbridge Veterinary Group will be offering free dog behavior workshop: “100% Housebreaking and Home Freedom,” on Saturday, April 24, at 9 a.m.

        The classes are for people only, no pets, and will run about one and one-half hours and will be given by a professional dog trainer. Highlights of the “100% Housebreaking and Home Freedom” class include tips on how to properly housebreak a dog and how to teach a dog without using a crate, and to “go” on cue.

        To register for free class, email Barbara@HappyPuppySchool.com or call 1-732-750-2698.

        This entry was posted on Monday, April 19th, 2010 at 8:59 am and is filed under Recreation & Lifestyle, Woodbridge. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.

        Free Class For Dog Owners


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