Dogs are often called as “man's best friend”, MacKenzie, a four-pound Chihuahua （吉娃娃）, was named winner of the 2020 American Hero Dog Competition on October 19, 2020.
In its tenth year in 2020 the annual contest is the brainchild of American Humane, the country's first national charitable organization founded for the safety and well-being of animals. Often called the “Oscars for dogs”, the award recognizes dogs who make extremely great contributions to society.
The competition of 2020 attracted over 400 entries（参赛者）from across the country. These heroic dogs have gone above the call of duty, saving lives, comforting the ill and aged and reminding us of the powerful, age-old ties between animals and people. While all were impressive, it was tiny MacKenzie who won the judges' hearts.
MacKenzie's growth was not easy. Born with a mouth disability, she had to be fed through a tube（管子）for the first year of her life. Despite her own struggles, she always seemed to think more of other animals in need. “Never have I seen such a will to live. Though sick, she carefully looked after the baby animals at the rescue（救助）center,” said her caretaker.
A life-saving operation performed in 2014 gave MacKenzie the ability to eat independently. The seven-year-old chihuahua is now working for the Mia Foundation, an organization that rescues and nurses animals with inborn disabilities. The chihuahua does an excellent job and has raised various animals. She plays nurse, cleans, comforts and hugs them, acting as their mother and teaching them how to socialize, play and have good manners.
In addition to her role as an animal caretaker, MacKenzie also visits schools to educate kids about the importance of accepting physical differences in both animals and people. Her heartwarming and inspiring story makes MacKenzie a worthy receiver of America's top dog honor.
【小题1】What can we infer about the American Hero Dog Competition?| A．It was first held in 2010 | B．It was held to honor caretakers of dogs. |
| C．It takes place every ten years. | D．It was started by a charitable organization. |
| A．Talent and bravery | B．Friendliness and care. |
| C．Courage and selflessness. | D．Confidence and independence. |
| A．Learning from failures. | B．Understanding the disabled. |
| C．Valuing physical health. | D．Developing practical ability. |
| A．Dogs Are Man's Best Friends. | B．Treat Dogs the Way We Want to Be Treated. |
| C．Touching Stories between MacKenzie and People | D．2020 American Hero Dog: A Tiny Chihuahua. |
