What kind of chemicals are used to sanitize surfaces in veterinary practices?

Disinfectants are specifically formulated chemicals used to sanitize surfaces in veterinary practices. Their primary function is to eliminate or reduce harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, from surfaces and equipment that may come into contact with animals. This is crucial in a veterinary setting to prevent the spread of infections and ensure a safe environment for both the animals and staff.

Antiseptics, while important, are typically used on living tissues to reduce the risk of infection. They are not intended for surfaces, which is where disinfectants come into play. Fungicides are specialized agents that target fungal organisms; while they can be part of the sanitation process, they do not cover the full range of pathogens that disinfectants do. Pesticides are used to manage pests and insects, not to sanitize surfaces in a veterinary context. Thus, disinfectants are the appropriate choice for sanitizing surfaces in these practices, making them the correct answer.