World’s Smallest Horse Has BIG Dreams

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

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.

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.

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!

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…

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.

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!

(H/T: ABC News)