Today we’d like to introduce you to Tena Lundquist-Faust Tama Lundquist.
Hi Tena Lundquist-Faust, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always believed that if you’re fortunate enough to have the ability to help others, you have a responsibility to do so. For me, that calling has always included animals. Throughout my life, I’ve been involved in rescue efforts and supported organizations working to improve animal welfare, but over time I realized that compassion alone wasn’t enough. We weren’t going to rescue our way out of the growing animal homelessness crisis.
That realization helped shape PetSet into the organization it is today. We began by supporting local animal welfare organizations through grants, but as the challenges facing communities became more complex, it became clear that we needed to do more than fund great work—we needed to help change the system itself.
Today, as Co-President of PetSet, I’m proud that we’re working alongside shelters, veterinarians, nonprofit organizations, policymakers, and community leaders to address the root causes of companion animal homelessness. Whether it’s expanding access to affordable spay and neuter services, investing in innovative programs, supporting research, or advancing public policy, our goal is to create long-term, sustainable solutions that improve the lives of both animals and the communities they live in.
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been watching people from so many different backgrounds come together around a shared mission. Real change happens when communities work together, and that’s what continues to inspire me every day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No meaningful work is ever completely smooth, and animal welfare certainly isn’t.
One of the biggest challenges has been helping people understand that there isn’t a single solution to companion animal homelessness. It’s easy to focus on what happens inside a shelter, but by the time an animal arrives there, many opportunities for prevention have already been missed. It comes down to responsible pet ownership and people treating their pets with dignity.
The issues are interconnected access to affordable veterinary care, spay and neuter services, public education, responsible pet ownership, housing, transportation, and community resources all play a role. Solving a problem this complex requires patience, collaboration, and a willingness to bring together people with different perspectives.
Another challenge has been shifting the conversation from reacting to crises toward investing in prevention. Emergency response will always be necessary, but lasting progress comes from reducing the number of animals entering shelters in the first place.
Fortunately, I’ve found that when people focus on the shared goal of helping animals, partnerships become possible. That’s where I’ve seen the greatest progress.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
PetSet is a nonprofit dedicated to ending companion animal homelessness through strategic investment, collaboration, education, and policy leadership.
What makes PetSet unique is that we don’t simply respond to the symptoms of the crisis, we work to solve its root causes.
We invest in high-impact programs that expand access to spay and neuter services, preventive veterinary care, transport programs, emergency medical assistance, and shelter support. At the same time, we’re bringing together leaders across sectors to identify solutions that improve outcomes for both animals and communities.
One accomplishment I’m especially proud of is helping secure $13 million in statewide funding for spay and neuter services in Texas. That’s the kind of investment that has the potential to change the trajectory of animal welfare for years to come.
I’m also proud of PetSet’s evolution. What began as a Houston-based organization has grown into a statewide leader working to address one of the most pressing animal welfare challenges facing Texas. We remain deeply committed to supporting local communities while helping advance solutions that can be replicated across the state.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: when we invest in prevention, collaboration, and innovation, we create healthier communities for both people and pets.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve found that the best mentors often come into your life naturally when you’re genuinely curious, willing to listen, and committed to doing the work.
Instead of approaching networking as collecting contacts, I think it’s much more valuable to focus on building authentic relationships. Ask thoughtful questions, be generous with your time, follow through on your commitments, and look for ways to help others before asking for something in return.
I’ve also learned that some of the best ideas come from people outside your own field. Animal welfare intersects with healthcare, housing, public safety, business, philanthropy, and government, so I’ve always tried to learn from leaders across many different industries.
Finally, don’t be afraid to start before you feel completely ready. Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my career came because I was willing to say yes, continue learning, and surround myself with people who challenged me to think bigger.
At the end of the day, lasting impact isn’t created by one person—it’s built through relationships, trust, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pet-set.org
- Instagram: @petset_tx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petsettx
- LinkedIn: @PetSet
