Rescued from Despair: The Incredible Journey of Cala, the Dog Hanging from a Chain, Finds Hope Just in Time

In a heart-wrenching scene, a severely emaciated dog found herself unable to bear the weight of her own body. Exhausted and desperate, she sought solace on a pile of rags, but a short chain cruelly twisted around her neck prevented her from finding comfort.

Cala, the abused canine, had been employed as a guard dog by a mechanic in San Jose, Costa Rica. Sadly, her caretaker failed to provide adequate nourishment and neglected her when she fell ill.

Over time, Cala’s health deteriorated, and the simple act of holding her head up became a struggle for each breath. With time running out, concerned neighbors took action, alerting local authorities and reaching out to Territorio de Zaguates, a renowned sanctuary dedicated to the welfare of thousands of dogs.

Lya Battle, the founder of Territorio de Zaguates, was filled with sorrow and fury upon witnessing Cala’s dire condition. “The first picture I saw of her depicted a pitiful creature robbed of dignity, ready to give up—a dog whose spirit had been shattered, trapped in an unending nightmare,” Battle shared.

Responding to Cala’s distress call, the police and sanctuary staff swiftly rescued her from her tormentor’s property. She received immediate medical attention, addressing her acute emaciation and the wounds inflicted by the constraining chain. Cala found solace at Territorio de Zaguates, where her physical and mental healing journey began.

Enduring arduous procedures to repair her wounds, particularly the gash left by years of hanging from the cruel metal chain, Cala discovered that love and rewards followed her anguish. With unwavering determination, she persevered through each stage of her rehabilitation.

Initially cautious and wary of her fellow canine companions, Cala slowly developed trust through her interactions with other dogs and the caring humans surrounding her. “We witnessed Cala transform from a frail and desolate creature to a resilient being willing to stand up for herself,” Battle recounted. “Over time, we saw her playful and goofy nature emerge, incorporating these joyful moments into her daily routine. She went from being fearful of humans to trusting them and even seeking their attention.”

Cala’s journey, however, was far from over. In June, a malicious act shook the sanctuary when intruders planted poisoned sausages, claiming the lives of 16 innocent dogs. Cala accidentally consumed one of these sausages but miraculously survived.

“When we found her, Cala was still alive,” Battle shared. “Perhaps her size helped her tolerate the poison, or maybe she only took a small bite. Nevertheless, Cala was rescued once again.” Although she faced neurological challenges in the aftermath, her indomitable spirit prevailed, leading her on the path to recovery. She proved herself to be truly resilient.

Battle believes that there are no coincidences in life. Cala’s survival, despite years of neglect, abuse, starvation, and illness, serves as a testament to her unbreakable spirit. Just as she discovered that life was worth waiting for, kind-hearted humans appeared, eager to ease her pain. While the sanctuary mourned the loss of other beloved dogs, Cala’s extraordinary survival became a symbol of her tenacity.

Currently in a foster family, Cala revels in the abundance of love and care showered upon her. Despite enduring years of abuse, torment, and confinement, she is gradually shedding her past and embracing her mischievous instincts—a transformation her foster mother warmly embraces.

“After years of neglect, torture, and imprisonment, Cala seems to be going through the mischievous phase that puppies often experience, and we all think it’s wonderful,” Battle expressed. “She is happy, strong, determined, a bit stubborn, and spoiled by her foster mom and family.”

With countless dog rescues under her belt and many more to come, Battle finds Cala’s story particularly inspiring. It represents an epic battle between good and evil, hatred and love, with love ultimately triumphing.

“This rescue is an inspiring tale of love prevailing over adversity, serving as a reminder to never give up,” Battle declared. “It strengthens our resolve to continue fighting the good fight, even for just a little while longer.”