A Syrian brown bear slept for seven days straight after being rescued from a filthy cage where he was kept “for entertainment” purposes.
Four-year-old Noah was stuck in the 15 x 20-foot pen for over two years, with the door welded shut.
Bred in captivity and weighing around 100kg (220 lbs), the bear was kept outside next to a local restaurant in Yerevan, Armenia.
The neglected bear was subject to cold weather conditions and would often stand for long periods inside the metal box with sore paws from standing on a floor covered in waste.
Noah was freed on March 5 by workers from the International Animal Rescue and the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets, accompanied by police and local emergency services which helped cut open the cage door.
He was taken to one of the Foundation’s rescue centers, where he’s waiting for a full dental examination on his broken teeth to kickstart his recovery.
He was led to an enclosure with plenty of vegetation for bedding, so the stressed youngster could snuggle up and sleep for a week. A video shows the animal’s seeming delight fluffing up and burying himself in the straw—like a panda in snow.
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The two charities have been appealing for funds to keep Noah in the rescue centre for a year, which costs around £2,500 ($3,200).
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Alan Knight, president of Int’l Animal Rescue said Noah experienced “unimaginable suffering”.
“The International Animal Rescue and FPWC’s commitment has ensured Noah’s safety. However, Noah requires expert veterinary services and monitoring to start his recovery process.
“We need the public’s help to fund it.”
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Around 80 bears are thought to be suffering in captivity at restaurants, hotels, and roadside zoos, in Armenia, according to the IAR’s Great Bear Rescue.
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