Two bears, Max, a giant Siberian bear, and Minnie, a Syrian bear, were rescued in 2018 from deplorable conditions at a bus depot in Armenia where they were kept in a small, welded-shut cage for over a decade. The rescue, led by International Animal Rescue (IAR) in collaboration with a local Armenian wildlife foundation, involved persuading the captor for a year and using a blow dart and angle grinders to free Max, who weighed 500kg. Both bears were transported carefully to a wildlife rescue center in Urtsadzor.

Since their rescue, Max and Minnie have thrived in their new sanctuary, exhibiting natural behaviors such as foraging and hibernation. Max is described as playful and entertaining, enjoying activities like tree climbing and playing with logs and balls, while Minnie patiently waits to enjoy treats like apples. The bears are regularly fed a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat, allowing them to enjoy a second chance at life after years of neglect and cruelty.