What is the primary focus of veterinary epidemiology?

The primary focus of veterinary epidemiology is indeed on investigating the causes of animal diseases. This field applies the principles of epidemiology to understand the distribution, determinants, and dynamics of diseases within animal populations. By identifying risk factors, patterns, and outbreaks, veterinary epidemiologists aim to develop strategies for disease prevention, control, and management, which is crucial for maintaining animal health, public health, and food security.

While understanding human health, promoting animal rights, and diagnosing diseases in exotic animals are important aspects in their own right, they do not encapsulate the overarching goal of veterinary epidemiology. The focus is specifically on animals and their diseases, rather than solely on human health or the rights of animals, which are topics that might intersect with veterinary public health or animal welfare but are not the core of veterinary epidemiology itself.