Whether you're launching an adorable new dog toy, a game-changing cat health supplement, or a stylish pet accessory, getting the right media attention can make all the difference. But not all journalists cover the world of pets with the same passion or expertise.
To help you cut through the noise and land your story in front of the right audience, we’ve rounded up four standout journalists who regularly cover pets and pet products—with a sharp eye for trends, consumer interest, and, of course, the irresistible charm of our furry companions.
P.S. Our private Slack Community already got the full list sent to them, want in? Apply to join here.
1 - Kelli Bender, PEOPLE Magazine
Role: Staff Editor - Pets
About: Kelli Bender has 15 years of experience writing and editing stories regarding pets and entertainment. She has worked at PEOPLE for ten years, joining the brand as a writer-reporter in 2013. Kelli became PEOPLE's Pets Editor in 2018.
Recent or Relevant Coverage: Viral Animal Educator Shares the 'Short-Term Babysitting Gig' that Could Save Thousands of Kittens
Socials: Linkedin
Location: New York, NY
2 - Lisa Sabatini, Business Insider
Role: Senior Editor, Pets
About: Lisa Sabatini is a seasoned pet expert and the senior pets editor at Business Insider, where she has edited over 100 buying guides for dogs, cats, and small animals since 2020. With a focus on trustworthy product recommendations, Lisa leads all aspects of pet coverage—from research and testing to final publication—often consulting with veterinarians to ensure high standards of animal welfare. She has also overseen parenting and home product coverage, and previously worked as a developmental editor on dog training books for young readers. Lisa began her journalism career at The Wall Street Journal and was an editor at Scary Mommy. A passionate pet parent herself, she brings firsthand experience and a commitment to positive, rewards-based training to her work.
Recent or Relevant Coverage: The 6 best orthopedic dog beds of 2025, tested with large and small pups
Socials: LinkedIn
Location: New York, NY
3 - Liz O'Connell, Newsweek
Role: Pets Reporter
About: Liz O'Connell is a Newsweek Reporter based in North Carolina. Her focus is on pet news and videos. Liz joined Newsweek in 2023 and had previously worked at PetHelpful.com, the Charlotte Business Journal, and The Anson Record. She is a graduate of the University of Arizona.
Recent or Relevant Coverage: Woman Takes Kitten on Routine Vet Visit, 'Shocked' by What They Tell Her
Socials: X
Location: North Carolina
4 - Elizabeth Mitchell Kadar, Freelance
Role: Freelance
About: Elizabeth Mitchell Kadar is a freelance commerce writer with a passion for fashion and all things style and beauty. She loves rounding up the best beauty products, penning trend-focused style stories and reviewing the coolest gadgets, gear and clothing for kids and babies. She began her career in fashion PR and previously served as the head of content and senior copywriter for kids’ clothing subscription service Dopple. She has more than 10 years of editorial experience, contributing to top publications like Forbes Vetted, AP Buyline, TIME, Brides, Glamour, Good Housekeeping, Redbook, Betches, The Knot and many more outlets throughout the years. Elizabeth holds a BS degree in Media, Culture and Communications from NYU.
Recent or Relevant Coverage: 35 Best Gifts for Dog Lovers and Their Four-Legged Friends
Socials: LinkedIn
Location: Hermosa Beach, CA
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