Brave owner hops to rescue after rabbit is thrown into river
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THEY say cats have nine lives -- but one lucky rabbit clearly has a few to spare, too.
A daring rescue took place after the animal was thrown from a bridge on Sunday night. Its owner jumped into the river after the unfortunate animal, saving it from drowning by a whisker.
The incredible rescue happened at around 8.30pm at O'Connell Street in Dublin city centre.
Around 200 people watched as the man, who is believed to be homeless, dived from the bridge into the murky waters of the Liffey to save his pet rabbit after it was cruelly flung from the bridge by another man.
He then clung to a ledge under the bridge, cradling the rabbit in his arms, before being rescued by the emergency services.
When he and his furry friend emerged, the waiting crowds cheered his bravery.
After the incident, the man and his rabbit were given food and water by a local homeless charity.
A bystander who saw the incident said it was a crazy thing to happen.
"The man dived in after he saw his rabbit in the water. He thought the rabbit would drown. There was a large garda presence after a few minutes. Thankfully they were both okay."
Gardai questioned a number of people before arresting an 18-year-old man. He was taken to Store Street garda station where he was charged with a public order offence and a cruelty offence.
He was released on bail and will appear before Dublin District Court on July 21.
- Fiona Ellis
Irish Independent
