The newly approved grants are intended to fund surgeries for more than 2,500 dogs and nearly 3,500 cats. Events are expected to take place throughout 2026, with a significant concentration of grants supporting high‑need communities in Texas and other southern states where animal overpopulation continues to place extraordinary strain on shelters and rescue organizations.
Participating shelters, rescues, and veterinary partners from Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Kentucky, and additional states across the country will host large‑scale Namaste Days offering free spay/neuter services to pet owners. The average cost per animal is expected to remain under $70 and includes surgery, pain medication, a rabies vaccination, and a microchip. The Jason Heigl Foundation fully underwrites each procedure, allowing participating pet owners to receive these services at no cost.
In a joint statement, Nancy and Katherine Heigl, Jason Heigl Foundation co-founders, said: “Every litter prevented means fewer animals entering already overwhelmed shelters. Rescue work matters deeply, but prevention is essential if we want lasting change. Spay and neuter is one of the most humane and effective ways to reduce suffering before it begins and to ease the burden on shelters, rescues, and the communities working to save animals every day.”
Contact betty@jasonheigl.foundation for more information.
