We love our dogs and we want them to live long, healthy lives. While they come in all shapes, sizes and personalities, every dog needs to be fit – mind, body and spirit. In honor of National Canine Fitness Month, we’re taking a look at some ways we can promote a healthy lifestyle for our best friends. Mind Mental fitness is extremely important for dogs to be happy and well adjusted. Just like the rest of us, dogs do not like being bored, which can result in negative behaviors such as whining, digging …
Following his high school graduation, on his 18th birthday, Nate Beckstrand joined his local fire company. He was a firefighter for five years in Nevada and Utah and considered it a privilege to serve the families in those communities. During that time, Nate had an opportunity to collaborate with the arson team for a first-hand look at the incredible sniffing capabilities of a canine. “Looking back, this was when I first became interested in canine handling. At a fire scene investigation, these dogs …
During the first three months of this year, Transportation Security Administration agents intercepted 1,508 firearms in carry-on luggage at airport security checkpoints throughout the country. This is a 10.3% rise over the same time frame in 2022. Of the firearms intercepted, more than 93% were loaded. During the same first quarter of the year, Gun Violence Archive reports 131 active shooter incidents, resulting in the deaths of 195 people. Incidents occurred across 29 states. These statistics further …
All Enhanced Protection Services explosive and firearms detection canines are paired with a single handler to reinforce a strong and unique working bond that enhances success in the field. Never kenneled, Enhanced Protection Services canines live at home with handlers’ families which fosters connectivity and comfort, while allowing for daily training. “Rudy is a food-reward dog, which means he’s not eating meals from a dog bowl. His food comes only when I train him which reinforces his ability to …
The first recorded mail bomb was sent as part of the “Bandbox Plot” in 1712. It was named after a type of hatbox sent to Robert Harley, the Earl of Oxford and British lord treasurer. The box, with a thread fastened to the lid, contained three pistols set to shoot the recipient opening the box. According to the story, as the Earl began to open the box, author Jonathan Swift, who was also in the room, suspected foul play and disarmed the device. Over three centuries later, mail-borne terror remains a …
Coming from a strong law enforcement family background, Jesikah Waite enlisted in the Army with a desire to serve in the military police. During basic training, an opportunity came up for canine handlers and Jesikah volunteered – along with a considerable number of other soldiers. “I am not even sure why I volunteered. I never even pet a large dog,” she recalls with a chuckle. Turns out Jesikah was selected as one of just 12 soldiers to go to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, for canine …
During a midnight screening at a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, 24-year-old James Holmes set off tear gas grenades and shot into the audience with multiple firearms. Twelve people were killed and 70 others were injured. This incident occurred more than a decade ago yet, unfortunately, active shooter incidents continue to be on the rise. According to Gun Violence Archive, there have been over 370 mass shootings already this year that took the lives of more than 377 people. While some industries face …
Strength comes from brushing up on the basics and regular exposure to the wide variety of images and evolving threat presentations. Screeners at Enhanced Protection Services client sites throughout the globe benefit from a regular workout opportunity when connecting with experienced bomb technicians through the company’s SmartTech® technology. In the Enhanced Protection Services Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in New York City, Enhanced Protection Services experienced bomb technicians communicate …
On July 22nd, 2023, news broke of a hospital shooting in Portland, Oregon. One security guard was fatally shot by a visitor who was reportedly threatening hospital staff. Unfortunately, gun violence is on the rise nationwide, particularly in accessible, populated areas like hospitals and healthcare facilities. The effects of this violence can be damaging to both patients and healthcare workers, resulting in a decrease in the quality of care that patients receive. If left unaddressed, this can lead to …
In his mid-20s, Christopher Gillespie’s love of travel and adventure prompted him to enlist in the U.S. military. “My buddy was joining the Navy and although I never thought of joining the service before, I decided it was a great way to serve my country, see the world and propel a solid career,” explains Christopher. He was right. He swiftly proved himself worthy, earning the post of master helmsman and the enormous responsibility of steering a massive warship. Becoming a master helmsman requires …