Who does the term 'patient' refer to in a veterinary setting?

In a veterinary setting, the term 'patient' specifically refers to the animal being treated or seen by the facility. This designation underscores the focus of veterinary care on the needs and health of the animal itself. When discussing veterinary practices, any treatment, medication, or procedures are aimed at the patient, which is an essential aspect of veterinary medicine. Understanding this context helps clarify that while the veterinarian and the owner's responsibilities are vital components of animal care, they do not constitute the 'patient' in this scenario. The medical history, while crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning, is not the patient itself but rather information that aids in providing effective care to the animal.