The animal spent five years alone and silent in the miserable conditions of a private zoo, which closed long ago. Other animals were relocated, but there was no place for Ruben, said a representative of Animal Defenders International, the nonprofit organization that rescued him.

After a massive rescue operation, the battered, lone lion was moved from its concrete cage to a temporary quarantine facility in the Armenian reserve. Work is ongoing to move Ruben to his final home in South Africa, The Epoch Time reports. 

Ruben's cage was only a few feet wide, but he now lives in a heated overnight lodge with a bed of hay and a heated outdoor area.

The lion has been in bad shape, with ungroomed hair and broken teeth. Ruben is also suffering from a neurological condition, possibly caused by a brain or spinal injury.

Efforts are underway to help the lion regain his health and strength enough to move him to a wildlife sanctuary in his native Africa. There, workers will have access to more advanced technology and treatment, allowing them to treat his serious problems and perform dental work.

Appealing to the public to help support their mission, the charity said their latest adopted pet now has a chance at the same beautiful life enjoyed by the other lions and tigers they have rescued in their safe haven in South Africa.

Preparations are underway to transport Ruben to South Africa in March. The journey requires careful planning and includes obtaining the necessary permits, building a special box, preparing the new habitat, and booking air and ground transportation. After this very long journey - Ruben can finally have the life he has always deserved.

Animal Defenders International has been working to end the suffering of animals in captivity for over 20 years. To date, they have successfully rescued hundreds of animals, including lions and tigers, from circuses around the world.