Costa Rica offers more than just pristine beaches and stunning surf—the tropical country is also home to a dog and dog lovers’ paradise filled with nearly 1,000 happy and healthy dogs. Founded as a no-kill shelter and haven for strays, the volunteer-run Territorio de Zaguatas—the Land of the Strays—is located on the green pastures of Santa Bárbara in Costa Rica’s Heredia province. The sprawling free-range doggy heaven runs an active adoption program, but also invites curious visitors and dog lovers to come for a free hike and to play with the dogs.
Founded nine years ago by a couple passionate about animal welfare, Territorio de Zaguatas is a non-profit organization that operates with help from donations, volunteers, and a small but hardworking staff. The Super Perro dog food factory donates approximately 80% of the dog food. All dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and treated for parasites before they enter the sanctuary.
Dogs of all sizes and breeds interact freely on the haven’s giant property. Each dog is given a name and is even assigned their own personal “breed” based on their characteristics. Staff members who watch over the dogs 24/7 make sure to break up any fights and maintain safety among the pack. A modern indoor facility offers soft bedding as well as feeding and bathing stations. Troughs of water are placed in multiple locations throughout the property.
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While Territorio de Zaguatas is free and open to the public, interested visitors must first call in advance—(506) 8883-9337—to schedule a visit or they can check the Facebook page for upcoming public hikes. Though volunteers regularly come to exercise the dogs, this steadily expanding doggy heaven requires donations to survive; all donation options can be seen on the Territorio de Zaguatas Facebook page.
Via Bark Post
Images via Territorio de Zaguatas
