Definition: "Veterinary medicine" has been used to describe the field of medicine in which veterinarians care for animals, especially livestock and companion animals, such as dogs, cats, horses, pigs, cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, birds, reptiles, fish and more. The term "veterinarian" is a general term that encompasses any person who is licensed to practice medicine and provide veterinary care in the United States. They are usually affiliated with an animal welfare organization or veterinary school and must adhere to specific guidelines regarding patient confidentiality and professional conduct. In short, "veterinary medicine" refers to the study of treating animals, while "veterinarian" refers to a person who practices medicine and provides veterinary care for animals.