Katherine Polak, DVM, is the Vice President of Companion Animals and Engagement at Humane Society International. She works to improve companion animal welfare around the world through humane management of street dog populations, community engagement, spay/neuter training, and fighting the cruel dog and cat meat trade in Asia. Before joining HSI, Dr. Polak managed animal welfare programs and campaigns across Southeast Asia at Vienna-based charity, FOUR PAWS.  

She is double boarded in Shelter Medicine and Veterinary Preventive Medicine, and holds master’s degrees in forensic medicine and public health. She sits on the World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s Animal Wellness and Welfare Committee and the international advisory board for the Alliance for Contraception of Cats and Dogs.  

She teaches International Shelter Medicine for the University of Florida's Online Shelter Medicine program.