One of the most important parts of veterinary medicine happens before diagnostics are even run. We start by integrating the history, physical exam, and the patient in front of us. From there, we recommend diagnostics, explain what each test tells us, and offer options, always with the pet’s comfort and the family’s goals at the center. Good medicine isn’t about doing everything blindly or a checklist. It’s about doing things intentionally and supporting families in the decisions they make. This