What is the mission of APHIS Veterinary Services (VS)?

The mission of APHIS Veterinary Services (VS) is centered on enhancing animal health and marketability. This mission encompasses a broad range of activities aimed at protecting and improving the health of livestock and companion animals, which in turn supports the agricultural economy and ensures safe food production. By focusing on animal health, APHIS VS helps to prevent and control animal diseases, thereby safeguarding public health and enhancing the competitiveness of U.S. livestock in domestic and international markets.

The emphasis on marketability indicates that APHIS VS works to bolster the economic aspects of animal agriculture, ensuring that healthy animals contribute efficiently to food production and other industries. This mission aligns with the agency's goals of providing services such as disease surveillance, vaccination programs, and educational resources.

Other options do not encapsulate the full scope of APHIS VS's mission. For example, eradicating all animal diseases is unrealistic and not a feasible federal mandate. Promoting animal rights legislation, while important, does not directly reflect the primary responsibilities of APHIS VS, which are rooted in health and trade rather than legislation aimed at rights. Increasing livestock production without regulations would contradict the necessity for health oversight that safeguards both animals and consumers, further indicating that responsible practices are integral to APHIS