Boston’s venerable Museum of Fine Arts has hired its newest employee for one reason: His sharp nose. Riley the Weimaraner puppy’s job is to sniff out any potential pests, moths or dangerous objects that could damage priceless works of art housed in the museum, including masterpieces by Diego Velázquez, Sandro Botticelli and Claude Monet.
You’ve heard of drug-sniffing dogs. But bug-sniffing dogs? Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts has just hired Riley, a Weimaraner puppy, to protect its collections. https://t.co/i5CQJlWvYB pic.twitter.com/fFth40a6Uv
— ABC News (@ABC) January 11, 2018
“Riley is currently undergoing basic puppy training and will continue to improve his scent detection skills for the next year,” Katie Getchell, the museums’ chief brand officer and deputy director, told RealClearLife.
“Objects are frequently coming in and out of the building, and those made of wood or textiles can come in with bugs,” Getchell said. “This is an industry-wide concern, which can be addressed in many different ways, including with a specially trained dog! Riley’s focus will be on behind-the-scenes conservation work.”
Does your museum need a puppy? Meet Riley, the adorable bug-sniffing Weimaraner at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts. https://t.co/8h6XV6rd3W pic.twitter.com/LZsgwXHbcy
— Lynda Albertson (@sauterne) January 12, 2018
Don’t promise your kids any time with the pup, though. Getchell said it’s unlikely viewers will catch a glimpse of him. “He is not sniffing paintings and you probably won’t see him in the galleries, as most of his work will be behind the scenes.
“We are looking into more specialized training for him to meet the unique environment of the Museum. Riley will be on the job as needed!”
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