Meet MacKenzie, the 4-pound Chihuahua who won the title. “The country’s most heroic canine” after beating over 400 dogs at the American Humane Hero Dog Awards. This pup was born with a cleft palate and has spent her life nurturing baby rescue animals with birth defects. So teaching children to be open-minded towards animals and people with physical differences. Learn more about MacKenzie’s amazing story and how she has become an inspiration to many.

MacKenzie, the Hero Chihuahua
MacKenzie’s Background and Journey
MacKenzie, born in Hilton, New York, had a rough start to her life. She was born with a cleft palate and spent her first year being fed through a tube and battling several bouts of pneumonia. After overcoming her health challenges, MacKenzie began working with The Mia Foundation, a non-profit in Rochester, New York that rescues and nurtures animals born with birth defects who cannot physically be with their mothers.
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Her Official Job
MacKenzie’s official job is to provide love and care for baby rescue animals born with birth defects. She is a mentor to these animals and teaches them how to socialize, play, and have good manners. MacKenzie takes an interest in each baby animal from day one and plays the role of a nurse. She cleans, comforts, and cuddles the animals and acts as their mother.
MacKenzie, the Teacher
She works with children at schools. MacKenzie also teaches children at schools to have an open mind towards animals and people with physical differences. MacKenzie’s story is an inspiration to many, showing that animals with disabilities can lead fulfilling lives and have a positive impact on those around them.
Recognizing Heroic Canines
The American Humane Hero Dog Awards celebrate and recognize extraordinary dogs that have gone above and beyond the call of duty, reminding us of the powerful bond between animals and people. The panel of celebrity animal lovers deliberated and the American public cast more than 1 million votes, awarding MacKenzie the title of “the country’s most heroic canine.”
Source: edition