A heartbreaking scene unfolded when a severely emaciated dog reached the point of exhaustion and could no longer bear it. Its frantic attempt to find solace on a pile of rags was futile, as a small chain tightly wrapped around its neck prevented it from resting, leaving its head hanging aimlessly.
Cala, a mistreated stray dog, had been hired as a guard dog by a mechanic in San Jose, Costa Rica. Unfortunately, his supposed caregiver did not provide him with proper nutrition and did not seek veterinary attention when he became sick.
Cala’s health gradually deteriorated, and keeping his head up became a battle with every breath. With time running out, concerned neighbors intervened, informed local authorities, and reached out to the compassionate staff at Territorio de Zaguates, a well-known local sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of thousands of dogs.
Lya Battle, the founder of Territorio de Zaguates, felt a deep sadness and anger upon seeing Cala’s difficult situation. “The first photo I saw of her showed a pitiful creature stripped of her dignity and ready to give up: a dog whose spirit had been broken and only waited for the end while living a nightmare without end,” Battle told The New York Times. Ancient.
Cala was quickly taken away from her tormentor’s property by the police and the sanctuary staff who responded to her distress call. She was brought to a veterinarian who treated her severe emaciation and the injuries caused by the tightness of the chain. Subsequently, Cala found refuge in Territorio de Zaguates, where she began a journey of physical and mental recovery.
Cala had to endure painful procedures to heal her wounds, especially the cut inflicted from years of being hung on a cruel metal chain around her neck. Despite the agony, Cala realized that love and rewards came after the distress, and she persevered in every stage of her rehabilitation.
Cala’s cautiousness towards her fellow canines initially led Battle to believe that she had never met other dogs before or had been raised to see them as rivals. However, trust grew over time through her interactions with other dogs, as well as the affectionate people surrounding her.
“We witnessed Cala’s transformation from a weak and depressed animal, too despondent to care, to a stronger creature ready to defend herself,” Battle said. “We also saw that this stubborn creature incorporated playfulness and silliness into her daily routine over time. Her personality emerged more and more each passing day. She went from being terrified of humans to trusting them and even ‘annoying’ them to get their attention.”
However, Cala’s difficulties were far from over. In July, malicious individuals invaded the sanctuary and planted poisoned sausages, claiming the lives of 16 innocent dogs. Cala accidentally consumed one of the sausages, but surprisingly, she survived.
“When we found her, Cala was still alive,” Battle said. “Perhaps her size helped her tolerate the dose, or maybe she just took a small bite.” However, Cala had been rescued. Eventually, she fought with neurological disorders for a long time after that, but she finally recovered. She’s just too tough!
Battle believes that there are no coincidences in life. Cala’s survival, despite years of abandonment, abuse, hunger, and illness, serves as proof of her indomitable spirit. Humans reappeared, eager to cause pain, just when she discovered that life was worth waiting for. While the sanctuary mourned the loss of other beloved dogs, Cala’s remarkable survival reflected her tenacity.
Cala, who currently resides in a foster family, is delighted by the amount of love and care she receives. Despite years of abuse, torment, and confinement, Cala is gradually leaving her past behind and embracing mischievous instincts. Her adoptive mother gladly accepts this development.
“After years of neglect, torture, and imprisonment, Cala seems to be going through the mischievous phase that puppies usually go through, and we all think that’s okay,” said Battle. “She is happy, strong, stubborn, a little headstrong, and spoiled by her adoptive mother and family.”
With a lifetime dedicated to saving dogs in need and many more to come, Battle discovers the particularly inspiring story of Cala. It represents an epic battle between good and evil, hatred and love, with love ultimately triumphing.
“This rescue is an inspiring story of love that prevails over adversity and serves as a reminder to never give up,” said Battle. “It reinforces our determination to fight the good fight for a little while longer.”
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