The tension between Denise Richards and estranged husband Aaron Phypers has taken a heartbreaking turn, and their pets are at the center of it.
Just days after police were called when Richards tried to retrieve her dogs from Phypers’ residence, Phypers is publicly defending his decision to euthanize one of their dogs, a move Richards reportedly claims was done without her consent.
In a statement to PEOPLE, Phypers claimed Richards “hasn’t interacted with the animals in two years and never has wanted knowledge or wanted to give her permission to any type of care for the animals.” He alleges that her recent actions are not truly about the pets but have “ulterior motives.”
According to a source close to Phypers, the dog in question, named Melanie, was in significant pain due to late-stage cancer. “Melanie, a sweet elder dog who Aaron loved, had late stage cancer and was suffering when he took her for help,” the insider said. “The vet insisted the few days she had left being in pain were better met with putting her to sleep and off to heaven. It was a painful decision. To say she was ‘put down’ is hurtful.”
The emotionally charged situation escalated on Sunday, August 3, when Richards showed up at the home where Phypers is currently staying. Law enforcement from the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department responded to the scene. Despite Richards holding a temporary restraining order against Phypers, citing allegations of physical abuse, the police concluded that “they did not have any evidence that a crime occurred.”
Richards’ attorney, Brett Berman, defended her actions in a statement, saying she “did not violate” the temporary restraining order. He explained: “On August 3, 2025, after confirming that Mr. Phypers was not present in her home, Ms. Richards entered the home to retrieve her dogs after learning that Mr. Phypers had put down one of her other dogs without her knowledge or permission.”
Phypers responded firmly to Berman’s comments, saying: “Denise’s attorney has consistently struck out in pursuit of the truth. There is a difference between telling the truth and trying to protect your client.” He added, “Having the title of attorney or being a celebrity does not put you above the law. It does not give you the right to humiliate others for the sake of your interests. Both of these actions have been readily apparent here in the last couple of weeks.”
The couple, who were married for six years, officially separated in July, with Phypers filing for divorce citing “irreconcilable differences.”
As the legal and personal battle continues, the well-being of their animals — and the truth behind what has really transpired — remains at the heart of the controversy.