Actress Katherine Heigl responded to criticism after attending a charity fundraiser in Florida that drew attention because it was hosted at Mar-a-Lago, the resort owned by President Donald Trump.

Heigl, 47, best known for portraying Dr. Izzie Stevens on the ABC medical drama Grey's Anatomy, attended the “Wine, Women & Shoes” fundraiser on Sunday to support Big Dog Ranch Rescue, a nonprofit organization focused on rescuing and rehoming dogs.

The three-day event took place at the Palm Beach resort and brought together supporters, animal advocates, and several public figures to raise money for rescue efforts. According to posts from the organization’s social media accounts, the fundraiser focused on promoting its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and place homeless dogs.

Some critics objected to the location of the event after learning it was held at Mar-a-Lago, prompting backlash directed at attendees. The event was co-chaired by Lara Trump, the president’s daughter-in-law, which also drew attention online.

Heigl addressed the criticism in a public statement, emphasizing that her participation was centered on animal welfare rather than politics.

“Animals don’t vote,” Heigl said. “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.”

She added that supporting rescue organizations has long been a personal cause.

“This event was about animal advocacy, something that has always been deeply personal to me. Anyone who knows me knows that protecting animals is one of my greatest passions,” she said.

Heigl and her mother have been longtime advocates for dog rescue through the Jason Heigl Foundation, a nonprofit named after the actress’s late brother that focuses on rescuing animals and promoting adoption efforts.

The foundation has supported shelters and rescue groups across the country for years, working to reduce euthanasia rates and provide care for abandoned animals. Heigl’s appearance at the fundraiser was part of those broader advocacy efforts, organizers said.

The “Wine, Women & Shoes” event raised funds to support rescue operations and adoption programs run by Big Dog Ranch Rescue, one of the largest dog rescue organizations in the United States.