OP, I think what you're saying is a bit harsh. You're implying that it's selfish to save, say my dog instead of saving a fellow human being, because the dog isn't a human being. Having read through a few comments (just the first and last page, I'm a bit lazy), I'd say having to pick between saving one of 2 lives, has more to do with knowing someone, or something, rather than whether or not that something looks like you.
For example, I have a cat, his name is Chester. I've known him from the day he was born, he's always around when I get lonely; he's my best friend. I don't care whether or not he's human, I love him regardless.
Now, I walk outside, and see a complete stranger. I know nothing about him/her, I don't care about him/her, and he/she probably doesn't care for me either. And when he/she walks away, I probably won't see him/her ever again.
Basically, what you're asking me is whether I'd save a friend, or a random person in the street. To me, it doesn't matter whether or not they're both cats, both human beings, or one cat and one human, I'd save the ones I love, and that's not selfish! If you tell people they must value other people (or animals, in this case), over the ones they love, then that's complete hypocritical bullshit!
Sorry for the massive rant, props if you actually read through the whole thing.
