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Katherine Heigl Defends Attending Mar-a-Lago Rescue Event: 'Animals Don't Vote'
The 'Grey's Anatomy' star clapped back at critics who politicized her support for animal welfare.
Mar. 12, 2026 at 12:24am
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Actress Katherine Heigl attended a dog rescue fundraiser event at Mar-a-Lago, former President Trump's estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Heigl faced backlash from some fans for attending an event connected to Trump, but she defended her actions, stating that animal welfare should not be a political issue. Heigl, who has long advocated for animal rescue through her Jason Heigl Foundation, said the event raised over $5 million for animals in need. She directly responded to critical comments on social media, emphasizing that helping animals is what matters most.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the ongoing debate around the politicization of issues that many see as non-partisan, such as animal welfare. Heigl's defense of her attendance at the Mar-a-Lago event underscores the importance of keeping the focus on the cause rather than getting sidetracked by political affiliations.
The details
Heigl attended the Wine, Women & Shoes Benefiting Big Dog Ranch Rescue fundraiser on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago. The event was co-chaired by Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump. At the event, Heigl posed for photos with former Fox News host Jeanine Pirro and 'Dog Whisperer' star Cesar Millan. Heigl, who was accompanied by her mother Nancy, has spent years advocating for animals through her Jason Heigl Foundation.
- The fundraiser event took place on Sunday, March 9, 2026.
The players
Katherine Heigl
An American actress best known for her role on the TV series 'Grey's Anatomy'. She is a longtime advocate for animal welfare through her Jason Heigl Foundation.
Lara Trump
The daughter-in-law of former President Donald Trump and the co-chair of the Wine, Women & Shoes Benefiting Big Dog Ranch Rescue fundraiser event.
Jeanine Pirro
A former host on Fox News who attended the fundraiser event at Mar-a-Lago.
Cesar Millan
The 'Dog Whisperer' dog trainer who also attended the fundraiser event.
Nancy Heigl
Katherine Heigl's mother, who accompanied her to the event.
What they’re saying
“Animals don't vote. The only room they don't like is the euthanasia room at a shelter. They are completely at the mercy of us, and they have no voice of their own.”
— Katherine Heigl, Actress (Page Six)
“As a society, we should all come together to protect the voiceless and the innocent. This should not be a polarizing issue.”
— Katherine Heigl, Actress (Page Six)
“Does this make you smile? Making a dumb joke when animals in this country are suffering and I'm doing everything and anything I can to stop their suffering?”
— Katherine Heigl, Actress (Instagram)
What’s next
Heigl plans to continue her animal advocacy work through the Jason Heigl Foundation, which aims to rescue, heal, and rehome animals while fighting cruelty and overpopulation.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the ongoing debate around the politicization of issues that many see as non-partisan, such as animal welfare. Heigl's defense of her attendance at the Mar-a-Lago event underscores the importance of keeping the focus on the cause rather than getting sidetracked by political affiliations, and demonstrates that helping animals in need should be a unifying effort.
