Our Mission
FAUNA (Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals) is a nonprofit organization committed to the humane treatment of homeless and neglected animals. Working hand in hand with the community, we strive to find caring homes for every animal in need. Our mission is to provide and promote humane treatment for homeless and neglected animals in need, working together with the community to find them caring homes. Striving to be a low-kill community, we will provide programs and services to create a society of responsible pet owners. As animal advocates, we will be a voice for those creatures who cannot speak for themselves.
Our Vision
A community where no healthy, adoptable animal is left behind—and where people and pets thrive together through compassion, education, and responsible care.
Our Story
FAUNA was founded by a group of passionate animal advocates who saw the need for a stronger safety net for the animals of Natchitoches Parish. With limited resources and high intake numbers, too many adoptable pets were at risk of being euthanized. FAUNA was formed to fill that gap—offering transport services, education, and support for pet owners and community members who want to make a difference. Since then, our network of volunteers and partners has grown, and together we continue working to ensure every animal has a second chance.
What We Do
- Rescue & Rehabilitation: We provide safe shelter, medical care, and love to homeless and neglected animals.
- Transport Program: We partner with trusted rescue groups and no-kill shelters across the country to give adoptable pets a chance at new beginnings.
- Community Outreach: We educate the public on responsible pet ownership and provide resources to support families and their animals.
- Spay/Neuter Advocacy: We help reduce overpopulation by promoting access to affordable spay/neuter services and preventive care.
Meet Our Board of Directors
PRESIDENT – Leah Forsyth
Leah Forsyth has been involved in Animal Rescue in Natchitoches since 2011 when she adopted her beagle mix Maggie. She has previously served as Secretary and Vice President for FAUNA. She is a member of the Northwestern State University Music Faculty and professional oboist. Leah loves gardening, doing yoga, and spending time with her husband, son, dog and two cats. You can get Leah to do anything by suggesting getting a coffee along the way.
VICE PRESIDENT – Rachel Leblanc
Rachel Leblanc has been an animal advocate in Natchitoches since 2014. Her passion for animals led her to serving as President of former organization Natchitoches Hope for Paws and then FAUNA for a total 9 years. Her rescued black labs, Alex and Izzy, were her joy for over 16 years. Some of her favorite rescue experiences include attending animal welfare internships at nationally renowned shelters such as Austin Pets Alive, planning and executing annual Farm to Table Dinners, and receiving positive updates from recent FAUNA animal adopters. A trained graphic designer, Rachel now works in human resources and stays busy with her three children, husband, two dogs and a cat.
SECRETARY – Karn Richoux
Biography Coming Soon
TREASURER – Tina Brown
Biography Coming Soon
BOARD MEMBER – Kay Kaufman
Biography Coming Soon
BOARD MEMBER – Jennifer Long
Biography coming soon.
BOARD MEMBER – Juanita Murphy
Biography coming soon.
BOARD MEMBER – Kathy Owsley
Kathy has always loved all types of animals and has been involved in animal rescue for the past 35 years. She is also a wildlife rehabber who runs her own non-profit, KLAWS, Inc. Kathy is the school secretary at NSU Middle Lab School. She is married to Robert Owsley and they have two grown daughters, Cameron and Callie. “In rescuing animals, I lost my mind but found my soul.” (author unknown)phy coming soon.
BOARD MEMBER – Greg St. Andre
Biography coming soon.
BOARD MEMBER – Debbie Tebbetts
Debbie rescued her first dog at age 15. His name was Fred. Since then, there have been many dogs, cats, and even a baby skunk. Debbie was a member of the Natchitoches Humane Society for over 35 years, holding the positions of Board Member, Secretary and President, and has been a Board Member of FAUNA since it’s inception. When she’s not caring for animals, she loves music, dancing (when her knees allow), reading, flower gardening, and spending time with friends. One of her greatest joys is her grandson, Dillon, who rescued his first dog at age four, a puppy with a broken leg thrown out behind a dumpster, and who has been volunteering with FAUNA since he was eight.
How You Can Help
There are many ways you can support FAUNA’s lifesaving work: