The bear is the unofficial mascot of Russia and is, some would argue, even more well-known and closely identified with the nation than the double-headed eagle that appears on the country’s coat of arms. It seems that only Russians can be partial to bears as pets, whereas the rest of the world goes for cats and dogs. That is exactly the subject of today’s tale.

Veronica Dichka, a resident of Novosibirsk, is happy to declare that Archie is a reliable friend. Novosibirsk native Archie was first saved as a cub by Maya Kirsanova from a circus. He and a few other bears resided in a safari park until the epidemic forced the park to close. As time went on, maintaining the shelter grew more and more difficult; that’s when the courageous Veronica entered the picture and took him in. Though she was merely Archie’s acquaintance, Veronica had previously collaborated with the bear on a few photo sessions. However, at this point, they are inseparable, as shown by the pictures below, which bear witness to their unique bond.

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Introducing Veronica and Archie, a bear that was saved from the circus two years prior due to insufficient food.

Picture attribution: dichkaaaaa

After the epidemic forced the closure of the local zoo, Veronica later adopted Archie because the bear was without a safe place to live.

Picture attribution: dichkaaaaa

Since he was born in captivity, Archie has needed human assistance to survive.

Picture attribution: dichkaaaaa

The peculiar pair hails from Novosibirsk, Russia, and their bond is cheerful.