Cala, a guard dog in San Jose, Costa Rica, endured years of unimaginable cruelty at the hands of her owner. She was chained to a short leash so tightly that she could neither lie down to sleep properly nor even breathe with ease. Her owner neglected her completely—rarely feeding her and paying no attention to her deteriorating health.
After years of both physical and emotional suffering, Cala’s story finally took a hopeful turn. Neighbors, moved by her heartbreaking condition, reported the abuse to the police and a local animal rescue center. When rescuers arrived, they found Cala emaciated, covered in parasites, and severely wounded from the chain that had cut deep into her neck.
Lya Battle, the manager of the rescue center, recalled her first impression:
“In front of me was a soulless dog, one who had lost all hope… a dog whose spirit had been shattered, waiting for death to end her suffering. I felt both grief and outrage at what had been done to her.”
Cala was immediately taken to the rescue center, where she received urgent medical care. Volunteers bathed her, removed the parasites, treated her wounds, and helped her slowly regain strength. The scars on her neck told the story of years of torment, but love and patience began to heal what cruelty had destroyed.
Yet Cala’s fight for survival was not over. In a shocking incident, someone threw poisoned sausages into the shelter, killing 16 dogs. Cala also ingested the poisoned food, but miraculously survived after receiving timely treatment.
Today, Cala’s life has completely transformed. She has been placed in a new loving home, surrounded by people and other dogs who cherish her. For the first time, she knows what it means to live with dignity, safety, and affection.
“After years of abuse, torture, and captivity, Cala now has a better life. Her rescue was truly a battle between good and evil—and in the end, goodness prevailed,” said Lya Battle.
Now Cala’s eyes shine with joy, and her smile reflects resilience and hope. Few would believe that this radiant dog once hovered so close to death. Her story is a reminder that while cruelty exists, compassion can overcome it, bringing light back to lives once lost in darkness.