03/11/2025
Dr. Katherine is awesome! Katherine P***k is a member of our Welfare Committee and we are so lucky to have her!!
"This field is challenging - emotionally, politically, and logistically - but the impact we can create makes every challenge worth it."
We always enjoy talking with our friends at Humane World for Animals, and it's a pleasure to be shining a light on Dr Katherine P***k, Vice President of Companion Animals and Engagement.
🌎 Katherine leads global initiatives to improve the welfare of dogs and cats across Latin America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. She describes her work as a privilege, highlighting that "Not only do our programmes improve the welfare of animals, but they also strengthen the bond between animals and people."
Katherine cites her passion for systemic change as inspiring her to embark on a career in animal welfare. After earning her veterinary degree from Iowa State University, she pursued board certification in both Shelter Medicine and Preventive Medicine, completing a residency at the University of Florida. A pivotal moment in her career came during this residency, when she volunteered for a disaster response mission in Bangkok, Thailand. "Seeing firsthand the immense challenges faced by street dogs and the limitations of traditional sheltering approaches completely shifted my perspective. I became deeply committed to finding sustainable, community-driven solutions to animal welfare challenges, particularly in regions where resources were limited."
Following this experience Katherine spent nearly a decade in Southeast Asia, where she directed large-scale spay/neuter and shelter medicine programmes. She spearheaded long-term funding for a groundbreaking sterilization initiative in Bangkok, and played a key role in securing bans on the dog meat trade in Cambodia, Vietnam, and South Korea.
Katherine's passion for systemic change has been evident throughout her career. "Whether it's advocating for an end to the dog meat trade, expanding access to veterinary care, or shaping humane policies, my driving force has always been the same: to create a world where all animals are treated with compassion and dignity, and my goal is to create lasting, evidence-based change that benefits both people and animals."
🤝 Acknowledging that "change in animal welfare, whether through policy reform, community engagement, or veterinary interventions, takes time", Katherine highlights the importance of persistence, resilience, cultural sensitivity and adaptability. She advises others to build strong networks, and embrace leadership opportunities.
💡 "I'd say to focus on the long game. There will be setbacks, but persistence is key. Progress is often incremental, and small wins build toward lasting impact. Stay committed to your mission, even when results aren’t immediate."
💜 We're so inspired by the phenomenal international impact of your work, Katherine, and how you use your experience to support others in creating a world where all animals are treated with compassion and dignity.
📸 Katherine P***k
