Katherine Heigl is taking legal action against a dog rescue organization, accusing it of spreading false allegations that are damaging her animal welfare foundation.
The actress and her mother, Nancy Heigl, run the Jason Heigl Foundation, a charity dedicated to rescuing animals from kill shelters. However, according to a new lawsuit obtained by TMZ, their efforts are now being sabotaged by a rogue rescue group.
Dispute Over Rescue Funds
The Heigls’ foundation previously partnered with The Pitty Committee (TPC), a Santa Monica-based dog rescue, agreeing to donate $5,000 per month in exchange for the rescue of a set number of dogs. However, the lawsuit claims that upon reviewing financial records, the Heigls found signs of mismanagement.
When their contract ended in December 2023, they chose not to renew—but nearly a year later, TPC executive Alyssa Deetman allegedly took to social media with serious accusations.
Heigl Denies ‘False and Damaging’ Allegations
According to Heigl, Deetman falsely accused her of owing TPC hundreds of thousands of dollars, keeping dogs in small cages, and even being responsible for the deaths of two puppies.
In stark contrast, the lawsuit highlights previous emails from Deetman, in which she had praised the Heigls’ work, stating:
“I will sing your praises always … I am so proud of the work [the foundation] does. I respect you, and I respect [Katherine] and I know the work you guys do.”
Heigl Fights to Clear Her Name
Now, Katherine and Nancy Heigl are suing The Pitty Committee and Alyssa Deetman for defamation, arguing that the false accusations have harmed their reputation and ability to continue their animal rescue mission.
The legal battle is ongoing.
