Grey’s Anatomy alum Katherine Heigl addressed criticism after her appearance at a recent charity event held at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago. The actor explained the reason behind attending the fundraiser following reactions online.
Katherine Heigl addresses why she attended dog fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago
Katherine Heigl addressed criticism after attending the Wine, Women & Shoes Benefiting Big Dog Ranch Rescue fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago, the Palm Beach club owned by Donald Trump.
The Grey’s Anatomy actor said she attended to support animal welfare rather than politics. She said in a statement shared with Page Six, “Animals don’t vote. The only room they don’t like is the euthanasia room at a shelter.”
Heigl explained that the fundraiser focused on advocacy for animals and said the issue should not be politically divisive. “This event was about animal advocacy — something that has always been deeply personal to me,” she said. “Anyone who knows me knows that protecting animals is one of my greatest passions.”
The 2026 Wine, Women & Shoes fundraiser benefited Florida’s Big Dog Ranch Rescue, the nation’s largest no-kill dog shelter. Organizers held the gala at Trump’s 17-acre Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, and Lara Trump, his daughter-in-law, co-chaired the event. Heigl attended with her mother, Nancy, and posed for photos with former Fox News host Jeanine Pirro and dog trainer Cesar Millan.
After social media users criticized the venue’s political associations, Heigl reiterated that she attended to support animals in need. “As a society, we should all come together to protect the voiceless and the innocent,” she said. “This should not be a polarizing issue.”
The actor also highlighted the financial impact of the fundraiser, noting the event raised millions for rescue initiatives. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of everyone involved, this event raised over $5 million to help animals in need,” she said. “I’m so grateful to everyone who showed up, supported and continues to stand up for those who can’t speak for themselves” (via Just Jared).
Heigl advocates for animal welfare through the Jason Heigl Foundation, which she founded with her mother in 2008 in honor of her late brother. The organization rescues, heals, and rehomes animals while addressing cruelty and pet overpopulation.
Originally reported by Ojas Kulkarni on ComingSoon.
