On Saturday, Delta Society Australia representatives from Warrnambool will travel to Hamilton to join their counterparts there in celebrating 20 years since the program begun.

The local event will be part of nation-wide celebrations.

Warrnambool Delta Society Australia therapy dog member Eve Grant and her dog Crumpet will make the journey to Hamilton.

Ms Grant and Crumpet, a nine-year-old blue roan cocker spaniel, have been visiting patients at South West Healthcare in Warrnambool for the past five years.

“I get so much joy taking Crumpet up to the hospital,” Ms Grant said.

“Crumpet helps lift the spirits of so many of the patients, it’s a great thing to see.

“People have such strong connections with dogs so being able to bring Crumpet up to visit provides such a boost.”

Ms Grant said Saturday’s celebrations will include a visit to the Hamilton Base Hospital, followed by a celebration at Myrtle Cafe.

“We are very grateful to the Hamilton group for inviting us to come up and celebration the 20-year birthday with them,” she said.