Who we are
Our Why
Our why is the power of pets to connect, engage and improve the health and well being of people and the communities in which they live, work and play. It's the new resident looking for a restriction-free community that welcomes them and their furry family. It's the person who feels more at ease meeting others because they are exploring their neighborhood together with their pet. It's the senior who no longer feels alone but has the unconditional love of their pet to keep them company. The child who learns to read because they feel free to learn while reading to a pet who passes no judgement. It's the powerful difference pets make on our lives.
Our Vision
Our vision, our purpose, our driving force is to shine a light on the power of pet friendly and the unconditional love that pets teach us. Our mission is to help businesses and cities alike create amazing pet experiences that raise the bar on what it means to be pet inclusive.
“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive.”
— Gilda Radner (comedian)
our team
karen bartoszek, Founder & President
Indi, chief security officer & treat tester
Indi, chief security officer & treat tester
Karen is a passionate advocate for pets and their role in enriching human lives. Her mission is to amplify the unconditional love we learn from our furry companions, making it easier for businesses and cities to embrace pet-friendly practices. By fostering pet-friendly communities, Karen aims to create spaces where pet parents can enjoy meaningful time with their beloved animals, promoting a lifestyle that is safe, sustainable, and fulfilling for everyone.
As a Creative Change Consultant, Connection Builder, and Business Development Leader, Karen's unique consulting practice integrates the human-animal bond as a transformative tool for organizational development and community building. She believes that pets are not just companions—they are catalysts for change, connection, and joy. Her innovative approach supports businesses and organizations in embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), while creating welcoming and fun environments for all.
Karen’s vision extends to helping people and teams thrive. She is dedicated to ensuring that every individual feels seen, heard, valued, and celebrated for their unique contributions. Her work is driven by her belief in the power of human connection and her commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Through Pet Friendly Works, Karen pioneers a forward-thinking approach to organizational development, leveraging the human-animal bond to create meaningful, lasting change. Her goal is to inspire outside-the-box thinking and empower organizations to embrace new pathways for growth and transformation.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Karen is a lifelong learner, a dedicated family caregiver, and a DEIB ally. She finds joy in helping others, cherishing the simple yet profound lessons taught by her own pets, and advocating for a world where the bond between humans and animals is celebrated and cherished.
Indi, chief security officer & treat tester
Indi, chief security officer & treat tester
Indi, chief security officer & treat tester
Indi takes all her roles very seriously. She will, however, drop everything to welcome guests--especially if they might have a treat for her. Indi has proudly earned her Canine Good Citizen Certification, loves treats, her mom and meeting new friends--both two and four legged.