Where more than 80 animals heal the wounds of their past.
At Santuario Igualdad (Equality Sanctuary) in El Monte, on the outskirts of Santiago, a diverse group of charismatic animals enjoys freedom and safety from Chile’s livestock industry. On beds of hay and in fields of grass they rest and play. Some quickly form lifelong bonds, while others may take longer to navigate deeply rooted trauma. But here, at Santuario Igualdad, there is no rush.
No doubt, they’re a fortunate few. The country is estimated to slaughter more than 300 million land animals every year.
Most of the residents were liberated from farms, others were found abandoned, like Alma, a lamb, or rescued from disaster, like Valentina, a pig. With care and patience, co-founders Marisol de la Reguera and Ariel Maluenda support the animals in their healing journeys, to overcome fear, neglect, and injury.
Salvador was found dying from starvation. Here, he’s being hand-fed by sanctuary co-founder Marisol de la Reguera. © Gabriela Penela / We Animals
Los habitantes del santuario no pueden hablar nuestro idioma, pero tienen mucho que decir. Sus guardianes también son sus traductores, y se preocupan de que su mensaje sea escuchado.
Hay un universo por descubrir en el corazón de cada rescatado, que en su maravillosa inmensidad contiene el poder de cambiar el mundo.
This soulful message, to be embodied and shared, translates to, “The inhabitants of the sanctuary cannot speak our language, yet they have much to say. Their guardians also serve as their translators, ensuring that their message is heard. Within the heart of every rescued animal lies a universe waiting to be discovered—one that, in its wondrous vastness, holds the power to change the world.”
At left, resident goat Alicia explores the grounds. At right, resident pig Luciano exits his mid-day mud bath. © Gabriela Penela / We Animals
Confidence restored, bull Gaspar stares into the camera © Gabriela Penela / We Animals
Resident ducks Flor and Sol rest together in the grass © Gabriela Penela / We Animals
Recently rescued pig Laura sleeps peacefully, with a stuffed toy, in a soft bed © Gabriela Penela / We Animals
Sheep David and young Piopito the rooster are two of the first individuals rescued by Santuario Igualdad, where they’ve found a home in each other as well. © Gabriela Penela / We Animals
Thanks to the incredible photography of We Animals, I hope you’ve enjoyed my short photo tour of the sanctuary. For more glimpses into this loving community of animals—human and nonhuman—follow Santuario Igualdad on Instagram.
To help ensure these animals always have a home, food, and healthcare, please donate!
Featured image: Benjamin and Estelita, who have been together since they were young and remain best friends. © Gabriela Penela / We Animals