In Ireland, the Animal Rights Action Network honors Mr. John Byrne with the Compassionate Citizen Award after the 38-year-old homeless man jumped immediately from a bridge into the cold waters of the river below to rescue his rabbit companion.
For his lovingly selfless deed, Supreme Master Ching Hai is honoring Mr. Byrne with the Shining World Compassion Award, along with a contribution of €2,000.

http://network.bestfriends.org/17501/news.aspx
http://www.broadsheet.ie/2011/07/12/john-byrne-pet-lover/