Miki Bartl
Miki’s story with Chicagoland Animal Rescue (CAR) began in 2015 when a coworker who volunteered for CAR invited her to do the same. Since then, Miki has shared her time and talent with the non-profit in some meaningful, lasting ways. Once per month, she trains new volunteers and gives the shelter a thorough cleaning. Our “Queen of Organization” volunteers in other capacities, too, like early morning setup for the annual craft fundraiser and supporting other CAR events.
It’s hard to believe that Miki wasn’t always an animal person. She turned into one after her son, a teen at the time, brought home six-month-old tuxedo girl, Cutie. Over time, Miki became really attached to Cutie and has been an animal lover “to the nth degree” since!
She especially has a heart for senior cats. A few years ago, she adopted 12-year-old CAR siblings, Teddy and Salem, into her loving home. Teddy has since gone to the Rainbow Bridge. Salem remains outgoing at 15 and, if given the chance, would likely befriend Cutie who is on the shy side.
Rare sighting of Miki’s cats coexisting within paws’ length of each other! Cutie (L), Salem (R), Teddy (F).
Her love for animals extends to her two sons’ dogs, Livid, a 15-year-old with whom she has a special bond, and Maddox. Miki is big into sports and enjoys playing tennis and volleyball. In other free time, she looks forward to catching up with friends over breakfast. When she’s not out and about, you will find her decking out her home for each season.
Miki has contributed to countless success stories for our cats. The most memorable, she recalls, was Mr. Kitty. He was an angry sort who even scared some of the volunteers. Regardless, he was loved and remained at the shelter for an entire year. One day, Miki witnessed something amazing…Mr. Kitty curled right up on a man’s lap - he found his forever person!
Thank you, Miki, for the gift of your time and care and showing others how to advocate for and protect the precious creatures at CAR. You make the cats’ temporary stay so much brighter!
