For six long years, Angelica and Spud lived in confinement, trapped inside cramped cages in a Virginia home.

Their world was limited to cold metal bars, with no room to move, play, or experience the outside world.

Angelica, a short-haired Saint Bernard, could barely stand or turn around in her tiny cage, while Spud, a terrier mix, coped by spinning in circles.

The two were completely isolated, unable to see or comfort each other, despite being just a few feet apart.

Then, everything changed. Rescuers from Rescue & RemEMBER, an organization dedicated to giving shelter animals a second chance, discovered their heartbreaking situation.

A distressing video captured the moment the rescuers first saw them—filthy, starving, and desperate. The second their cages were unlocked, both dogs bolted, eager to escape the prison they had known for so long.

Though they had been kept apart for years, Angelica and Spud quickly reunited, running and playing in their newfound freedom.

Even if it was just the kitchen of the house where they had been trapped, it must have felt like an entirely new world.

With the help of Rescue & RemEMBER and Knine Rescue, Inc., both dogs were placed on the path to a better life. Spud was the first to be adopted, quickly finding a family that welcomed him with open arms.

Now, he enjoys the warmth of a loving home, surrounded by affection.

Angelica’s journey was a little longer. Due to years of neglect, her hind legs were underdeveloped, making movement difficult. But she refused to give up.

With time, medical care, and perseverance, she transformed—gaining strength and a new appreciation for life’s simple joys.

Despite the cruelty they endured, Angelica and Spud are now living the lives they always deserved—filled with love, companionship, and a future free from cages.