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    Home » Horse Videos & Fun

    World’s Smallest Horse Has BIG Dreams

    Modified: Mar 9, 2017 by ihearthorses · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Hope was just 14 inches at birth, which her owners, Linda and James Wood, says ties her with the smallest horse in the world.

    10502204_272487309620516_7245497083685580780_n
    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
    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
    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
    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…

    11702984_645557205581063_3038922619706465059_n
    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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    • Listening to the Horse - The Documentary by Elaine Heney & Grey Pony Films
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    (H/T: ABC News)

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