Land of the Strays

Land of the Strays

Mother Nature Network- Costa Rica hosts a unique sanctuary called Territorio de Zaguates, or "Land of the Strays." It is located an hour outside the capital of San José, it is privately funded and volunteer-run. The safe haven gives hundred of abandoned dogs a second chance at life, whether they are adopted or not. No mutt is turned away!

This sanctuary is a place you take advantage of, human and canine alike, with beautiful landscapes. Volunteers lead a pack of ragtag rescues on scenic hikes through the gorgeous mountains nearly every day. They are walked unleashed, all together. These dogs could be considered “free-range.” The place functions just like any other animal rescue or sanctuary. "First thing we do when a new dog gets here is spay/neuter, vaccinate and get rid of parasites," the organization explains on its Facebook page. "Then we assess if the dog requires any other type of special treatment [and] put them in quarantine if necessary." After this process, the dogs are released where they can be adopted or just spend the rest of its days in doggy paradise.

Territorio de Zaguates takes a distinctive approach to finding the dogs forever homes. Every dog is given a special “breed” name based on the dog's phenotypic traits. For example, "Alaskan collie fluffy terrier" and the "chubby-tailed German doberschnauzer." People are more likely to adopt a “breed” rather a “mutt.” Adoptions grew 1.4% after this approach. As you could imagine, maintaining a sanctuary like this requires an enormous amount of time, money and labor. But charitable donors and volunteers make it a great success. "We have a very small staff but still we manage to do everything from daily picking up the poo and disposing of it properly, to feeding and medicating the dogs, and everything in between," a spokesperson for the organization writes.

Diamonds in the Ruff

This is a wonderful place that treats dogs better than most. With three meals a day, lounge spots, and room for even older dogs who don’t get adopted. We can all appreciate the kindness of others. At Diamonds in the Ruff, you can expect your fur baby to be treated with the love and care this sanctuary provides. We offer clean boarding, grooming, and doggie daycare. If you're in need of a professional groomer in Abilene, TX, stop by and see us. You can also visit our site at www.diamondsintheruffpetboarding.com.