Edmonton Symphony Orchestra hosting rehearsal for service dogs

Future service dogs took in a performance of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra on Feb. 10, 2025.

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra welcomed honorary four-legged guests for a special one-of-a-kind rehearsal taking place on Monday.

In partnership with the Winspear Centre, ESO invited service dogs and their trainers from Dogs with Wings and Aspen Service Dogs to enjoy an afternoon of live orchestra.

This was the first time in the symphony’s history where service dogs were permitted to sit in on the rehearsal for training purposes.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

The special rehearsal is designed to prepare service dogs for large crowds and to grow accustomed to the sounds of live orchestra music.

The inclusive initiative demonstrates how service dogs are trained to work in public spaces and how they come prepared to assist their handlers in different situations.

“We’re always striving to keep our space as accessible as possible,” said Konstatine Kuralias from the Winspear Centre. “These service dogs are going to be trained, and they need to be ready for diverse and unique environments, and this is one of them.”

Pidra Angotti, the director of canine operations with Dogs with Wings, told CTV News Edmonton on Monday how difficult service dog training can be.

“I think people don’t realize how big of a skill settling is for service dogs,” said Angotti. “They have to be able to go into any environment and just relax and hang out with their person, and it’s a tough skill for them.”

“The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra is a great opportunity for our dogs to be exposed to different sights, sounds, smells, and just have practice settling,” she added.

Service dogs and their trainers saw the ESO perform at the Winspear Centre from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.