A Place That Redefines What a Shelter Can Be
If heaven had a physical address on Earth, some believe it would be hidden among the rolling green hills of Costa Rica. Not because it is perfect or quiet, but because it is alive with joy, movement, and second chances. This place is called Territorio de Zaguates, also known as the Land of the Strays, and it is unlike any animal sanctuary most people have ever seen.
Here, nearly two thousand rescued dogs live together without cages, chains, or concrete kennels. They are not confined to small enclosures or separated by size, age, or health. Instead, they roam freely across vast open land, forming natural packs, choosing their companions, and finally living without fear.
How the Land of the Strays Began
The story of Territorio de Zaguates did not begin with a master plan or international funding. It started with two people, Lya Battle and her husband Álvaro, who simply refused to look away from suffering. Over the years, they took in more and more abandoned dogs, many of whom had nowhere else to go.
What began as a private effort slowly transformed their farm into something much larger. As word spread and the number of dogs grew, the land evolved into an organized sanctuary spanning hundreds of acres. What makes it extraordinary is not only its size, but its philosophy. Every dog is treated as an individual, not a problem to be managed.
Dogs Who Were Once Invisible
Most of the dogs at Territorio de Zaguates share a painful past. Many were abandoned, injured, sick, or simply deemed unwanted. Some are missing limbs, some carry old scars, and others arrived frightened of human contact. In many places, these dogs would have been labeled as too broken, too old, or too difficult.
Here, those labels do not exist. Each dog becomes part of a massive, living family. They are fed, vaccinated, medically treated, and cared for daily. More importantly, they are allowed to be dogs again. They run, rest, play, and socialize on their own terms.
Life Without Bars or Chains
There are no cages lining the landscape. No metal doors to shut behind them. The dogs sleep together in packs, rest under trees, and explore the terrain in groups. They bask in the sun on hillsides, cool off in water troughs, and nap wherever they feel safe.
This freedom is not chaotic. It is carefully supported by volunteers and caretakers who understand canine behavior and group dynamics. The result is a balance that many find astonishing. Despite the large number of dogs, aggression is rare. Social bonds form naturally, and anxious dogs often find confidence by observing calmer companions.
Visitors Who Leave Changed
People from around the world travel to walk the trails of Territorio de Zaguates. Visitors are often accompanied by dozens of dogs who trot alongside them, tails wagging, hopeful but gentle. Some seek attention, others simply enjoy the company.
Many visitors arrive curious and leave deeply moved. It is common for someone to arrive without any intention of adopting and depart with a leash in hand. Seeing so many once unwanted dogs thriving together often reshapes how people understand rescue, responsibility, and compassion.
Adoption and Ongoing Care
Although the sanctuary allows dogs to live freely for as long as needed, adoption remains an important goal. Each adoption opens space and resources for another dog in need. When dogs are adopted, they leave not as damaged animals, but as confident companions who have already learned how to live peacefully with others.
For those who cannot adopt, there are other ways to help. Sharing photos, telling stories, supporting the sanctuary financially, or volunteering all contribute to the mission. The sanctuary thrives because people choose to care, even from afar.
A Reminder of What Is Possible
Territorio de Zaguates is not a quiet or polished place. It is loud, joyful, muddy, and alive. It proves that large-scale compassion is not only possible, but sustainable when guided by respect and patience.
The sanctuary stands as a reminder that cruelty exists, but it is not the final word. With enough courage and commitment, abandoned lives can be transformed into stories of dignity and belonging.
In the Land of the Strays, love is not limited, measured, or rationed. It is given freely, and in return, it has created an entire world where fear no longer rules.
