Hope was just 14 inches at birth, which her owners, Linda and James Wood, says ties her with the smallest horse in the world.
Image source: Mini Hooves of Love
Currently, that title belongs to Thumbelina, who was measured on July 7, 2006 by the The Guinness World Records at just 17.5 inches at the withers. She is owned by Kay and Paul Goessling in St. Louis, Missouri.
Thumbelina. Image Source: Guinness World Records
But while Hope may be small, the Woods have BIG plans for this filly.
They are the founders and operators of Mini Hooves of Love Miniature Therapy Horses, a non-profit corporation that provides therapeutic animal assisted visits in Texas. Their horses are certified through Pet Partners (formerly Delta Society).
Their group visits hospitals, hospice care, and the Ronald McDonald House in Dallas, Texas.
Image source: Mini Hooves of Love
Her size is actually a PLUS in this situation.
"She'll be able to navigate around hospitals and nursing homes and medical equipment more easily," Linda told ABC News.
This is her temporary "harness" because they don't make a halter small enough for her!
Image source: Mini Hooves of Love
We just think she is TOO CUTE FOR WORDS!
At two weeks old, this mini can fit into the kitchen sink! Now something you see every day…
Image source: Mini Hooves of Love
And since she is going to be a therapy horse when she grows up, her owners are wasting no time making sure she is getting lots of handling and desensitization.
Just look at her soaking up the love these kids are giving her in this video from the Mini Hooves of Love Miniature Therapy Horses Facebook page.
Listen closely as the children talk ... saying they feel Hope will be loved by the children in hospitals. This bonding and desensitizing is early training for her role as a therapy horse.
Posted by Mini Hooves of Love Miniature Therapy Horses on Tuesday, June 23, 2015
This tiny horse has captured our hearts in a BIG way. She would certainly brighten MY stay at a hospital! Do you own a miniature horse – share yours in the comments!
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(H/T: ABC News)
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