The Advertiser - Bendigo:

BENDIGO dog owners will bring joy to the elderly and disabled when they register their set of paws this year.

As part of a joint venture between Righteous Pups and the City of Greater

Bendigo, a portion of every new dog registration will be donated to the local charity.

Righteous Pups Bendigo is a non-profit group that raises and trains assistance dogs to perform a variety of practical tasks for the disabled and as companion dogs for the elderly.

Righteous Pups director Joanne Baker hopes about $15,000 will be raised through the collaboration.

She said the organisation's work with the elderly through the Therapy Dog program was a vital community service.

"A lot of people in nursing homes have had to give up their own pets, so they love the opportunity to spend time with an animal companion," she said.

"It has been scientifically proven that watching a dog play and spending time with a trained animal can significantly lower blood pressure."

Righteous Pups Bendigo is also about to embark on an Australian first to raise and train assistance dogs for children with autism spectrum disorders.

Ms Baker said regular contact with an animal companion could help autistic children assimilate into the community.

"Just by placing a paw on a child's lap or nuzzling against them a dog can prevent a child with autism from experiencing a sensory overload," she said.

Bendigo mayor Julie Rivendellnts Julie Rivendellnte said the council was delighted to support the work of Righteous Pups.

HELLO, THERE: Bethlehem Home for the Aged resident Ian Brown meets Gertie as Righteous Pups' Kelly Stevens looks on.