A four-year-old Syrian brown bear named Noah has finally experienced the freedom and comfort he had been denied for over two years. The young bear, who had been kept in a tiny, filthy cage for “entertainment purposes,” slept for seven days straight after his rescue—a testament to the unimaginable stress and exhaustion he endured.

Noah spent more than 24 months in a 15 x 20-foot pen in Yerevan, Armenia, with the door welded shut. Bred in captivity and weighing approximately 100 kilograms (220 pounds), he was confined outside next to a local restaurant. The harsh conditions—exposure to cold weather and a floor covered in waste—left him with sore paws from standing for hours on end. The bear’s life was one of neglect, isolation, and suffering.

On March 5, Noah’s long ordeal came to an end. Teams from the International Animal Rescue and the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets, supported by police and local emergency services, cut open the welded door to free him. The moment Noah stepped out of the metal cage marked the beginning of a new life—one that would allow him to feel safety, comfort, and care for the first time.

He was immediately transported to one of the Foundation’s rescue centers, where a full veterinary assessment, including dental care for his broken teeth, is planned. Experts hope this will kickstart the bear’s physical recovery, allowing him to regain strength and mobility that had been compromised by years of confinement.

Noah was led to a spacious enclosure filled with vegetation and straw, designed to provide comfort and security. Within moments, the young bear seemed to realize he was finally free. Videos captured him fluffing up the straw, snuggling into it, and burying himself like a panda rolling in snow. For seven days, Noah slept uninterrupted, recovering from the long years of stress and deprivation.

Alan Knight, president of International Animal Rescue, described Noah’s suffering as “unimaginable” and emphasized the importance of continued care. “The International Animal Rescue and FPWC’s commitment has ensured Noah’s safety,” he said. “However, Noah requires expert veterinary services and monitoring to start his recovery process. We need the public’s help to fund it.”

The charities are appealing for support to cover the cost of keeping Noah at the rescue center for a year, estimated at around £2,500 ($3,200). Every donation will help provide food, medical care, and enrichment to ensure Noah thrives in his new environment.

Noah’s story highlights the resilience of animals who survive captivity and cruelty. It also underscores the dedication of rescue teams working tirelessly to give such creatures a second chance at life. From a small, cold metal cage to a safe enclosure where he can finally rest, Noah’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact of compassion and intervention.