Karen A Hassan 24th International Conference of Racing Analysts and Veterinarians 2026

Karen A Hassan

At the US Horseracing Integrity & Safety Authority (HISA), Dr. Karen A. Hassan supports the Directors of Equine Safety and Welfare, Operations, Research & Strategy, and Racetrack Safety in several aspects of equine safety and welfare policies nationwide. As Chair of HISA’s Exercise-Associated Sudden Death Working Group, she directs four specialized subgroups and oversees related research initiatives. Her responsibilities include leading veterinary outreach programs, coordinating advisory committees, and addressing stakeholder inquiries on equine health and welfare. Additionally, Dr. Hassan serves as the veterinarian for Racetrack Accreditation, focusing on the understanding and implementation of HISA's racetrack veterinary protocols. A Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon with nearly three decades of experience in referral lameness and equine surgery, Dr. Hassan has also worked extensively in a regulatory capacity. She has served as a regulatory veterinarian for 1/ST Racing in California and the California State Fairs, with experience spanning Fédération Équestre Internationale competitions and Tevis Cup endurance events. For over 20 years, she has acted as an American Endurance Ride Conference Control Judge and treatment veterinarian. Her career reflects a deep commitment to research, education, outreach, and mentoring within the veterinary and equine communities. Dr. Hassan earned her veterinary degree from the University of California, Davis, completed a surgical internship at Tufts University, and returned to UC Davis for her residency in surgery.