NBC Comedy, Animal Practice, Debuts Tonight

The comedies featured on the "Big Four" broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox) have long focused on family, and covered a range of topics relatable to families watching from home. Long left out of the mix, however, have been animal lovers, who have not had a show that has rallied around our animal friends in quite a while. With tonight's debut of NBC's new sitcom Animal Practice, fans of both television and our furry friends will finally be appeased.

Animal Practice, which premieres with a new episode tonight at 8 PM EST, focuses on the trials and tribulations of Dr. George Coleman and the happenings of the veterinarian's office he works in, Crane Animal Hospital. Dr. Coleman, portrayed by Justin Kirk ("Weeds", "Angels in America"), is a vet with an unorthodox style of running things. Despite the hectic nature of Crane Animal Hospital, though, no one can dispute Dr. Coleman's gift for working with pets, which (to the pleasure of animal lovers) make cameos and appearances on set throughout each episode.

Coupled with the appearances of various live animals (Crane’s patients) is the constant presence of Dr. Rizzo (portrayed by Crystal, a professionally trained stage actor), the resident capuchin monkey of Dr. Coleman's office. Throughout each episode, Dr. Rizzo provides seemingly unending yet adorable antics that are sure to bring a smile to the faces of viewers.

As a show, Animal Practice highlights the strength of the relationship between animals and humans, and how our furry friends enhance our everyday lives. Like many in its likely audience, the staff of Crane Animal Hospital has an easier time relating to the animals they encounter on a daily basis than the humans in their lives.

Would you watch a comedy like Animal Practice and will you tune in to tonight’s premiere? Share in a comment!