It's not usually considered "lucky" to be in the waiting room of an animal hospital. But for some homeless pets in the Houston area, Best Friends Animal Hospital holds their best hope for the future right in the lobby.

Best Friends Animal Hospital in Spring, Texas has launched the "Support a Best Friend" program to help provide needed medical care for homeless pets.

The hospital is working with local rescue groups and humane societies to identify animals in need of medical attention. Photos and descriptions of the pets are posted on a billboard, which greets clients as they enter the building. Patrons of the hospital are invited to make a donation in a homeless pet's name to be applied to that shelter's account at the hospital.

Many groups benefit
"The response from our clients has been wonderful so far," says Kim Barrett, who initiated the program. "People definitely look at the board, and are so generous, and happy to help an animal in need. The shelters are also really excited about the program and are truly grateful for the contributions."

Participating rescue groups include the Houston Humane Society, SPCA of Montgomery County, Humane Society of Montgomery County in Conroe, Yorkie Rescue, Golden Retriever Rescue, Cocker Spaniel Rescue, and Dalmatian Rescue.

Representatives of the rescue groups regularly visit the hospital to update the board with new photos of pets in their care with medical requirements. There are usually 20 photos posted. The board doesn't discriminate: animals that have been injured or abused are pictured, as well as those who need surgery, or even pets who simply require heartworm medication.

"We think the program is just awesome," said Bryana Seaver of the Humane Society of Montgomery County. "It's such a wonderful opportunity to help needy pets, and we are so grateful for it!"

Continuing a tradition
The "Support a Best Friend"program was initiated in December, in conjunction with the Hospital's Angel Tree. A Best Friends tradition system-wide, the Angel Tree encourages pet lovers to donate food, toys, treats and pet supplies to homeless pets in area shelters. The staff delivered all the holiday donations to the shelters after the holidays, ensuring the animals a happier new year.

"The Angel Tree was so successful and everyone benefited from it," says Barrett. "I wanted to come up with a way to allow people to help rescue groups year-round, so the 'Support a Best Friend' Program was born. We all hope it continues for a long time."

For information on helping a rescue group or shelter near you, contact your local Best Friends Pet Care center, or visit www.petfinder.com.