BEDFORD -- Two pitbull mixes can look forward to a new life in New Hampshire after being rescued from a fight operation in the Bronx.

Annabelle, 5 months, and Manfred, 6 months, went up for adoption Tuesday at the Animal Rescue League after being brought to New Hampshire as part of a partnership with the ASPCA, Chief Operating Officer Lindsay Hamrick said.

The dogs were removed from a six-story apartment building in the Bronx in June, after being found living in crude cages in the corner room of a basement. According to information provided by the ASPCA, the basement also included a makeshift fighting arena with room for dozens of spectators.

Police confiscated a loaded .25-caliber handgun, multiple pet carriers, cash, dog treadmills, harnesses, muzzles, syringes and a shopping cart full of raw chicken parts.

The ASPCA rescued approximately 50 dogs; 17 were euthanized because they displayed highly aggressive behavior.

The others have spent the past two months in a temporary shelter, enjoying a healthy diet, medical care, exercise and extensive socialization, Hamrick said.

She said Annabelle and Manfred were just puppies at the time of their rescue, and it is unlikely they were used in the dog-fighting operation.

Hamrick said there is a misconception that dogs rescued from fighting operations are dangerous.

“One of the biggest myths is that they're a danger to other humans, but the issue is really with other dogs,” she said.

The second prevailing stereotype is that the breed is vicious, Hamrick said.

There was a time when it was common to simply euthanize pitbulls, she said.

“It's amazing how far we've come in our education,” Hamrick said.

She said she has no qualms about placing Annabelle and Manfred. After spending time at the ASPCA shelter, the dogs underwent behavioral evaluations.

Hamrick said she visited the temporary shelter to observe them.

“I feel really good about our part in helping place these dogs,” she said. “It's an example of how they can come from a horrible situation and still be great for a family.”

Emily Schneider, who represents the ASPCA, said the organization appreciates the efforts local groups have made to place the dogs.

“They were very eager to help us care for these dogs,” Schneider said. “We are very, very grateful.”

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Kathy Remillard may be reached at kremillard@newstote.com.