Which agency is responsible for border inspection, veterinary services, and animal care?

• A. USDA-FSIS
• B. USDA-APHIS
• C. FDA
• D. EPA

Answer: (B)

The agency in charge of border inspection, veterinary services, and animal care is the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS is tasked with protecting animal health and welfare, which includes inspecting live animals and animal products at points of entry to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases. It also delivers veterinary services—such as disease surveillance, veterinary care programs, and support for animal welfare in farms, shelters, and during transport. The other agencies have different primary focuses: FSIS concentrates on the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products; FDA regulates foods, drugs, and veterinary medicines, but not general border animal inspections or welfare oversight; EPA handles environmental protection and chemical safety.