It's no mystery that the tinier something is, the more we love it — like adorable puppies, little houses, and delicious mini Reese's cups!
Science has actually proven that humans are genetically wired to love all things tiny. The equation goes something like this: large head + big eyes + round, soft body = "Aww!" It's just in our DNA!
We see something small and sweet — like these hamsters dressed as Easter bunnies — and something inside of us just melts.
So it's no surprise that Thumbelina, a pint-sized horse with a giant heart, is turning people to mush all over the world. Standing at a staggering 17 1/2 inches tall, Thumbelina holds the official title for smallest horse in the world.
Although her size caused some health issues for her as a foal, Thumbelina is a healthy, happy little horse. With her owners' charity, she travels all across the country, bringing smiles and laughter to people of all ages.
Be sure to watch Thumbelina's precious video at the end, and please SHARE if this tiny horse put a big smile on your face!
When Thumbelina was born on May 1, 2001, she weighed around 8 pounds and stood only 10 inches tall. Her owners were absolutely stunned.
Although Thumbelina's parents were both miniature horses, Thumbelina's teeny size is quite unique. She is a dwarf miniature horse.
Today, Thumbelina only measures 17 ½ inches tall and weighs 57 pounds. "She was bred to be about twice her size, but God had other plans for her," says her handler, Michael.
Thumbelina currently holds the Guinness World Record for "world's smallest horse." Now, this pint-sized celebrity tours the country, but she uses her fame in very important ways.
In an attempt to draw attention to children in need, Thumbelina's owners created the Thumbelina Charitable Foundation.
Thumbelina visits sick, needy, troubled, abused, and disabled children all across the country, spreading joy and happiness everywhere she goes.
She's traveled over 27,000 miles to visit hospitals, therapeutic rider centers, special camps and schools, group homes, and shelters in 39 states and Washington, DC.
Despite her tiny measurements, Thumbelina's owners say the little horse seems to have no idea she's different.
"She is fearless and acts as though she is a giant. It's amazing to watch," said Michael.
Thumbelina also seems to love traveling and meeting new people, especially children. Here, she visits the Big Apple Circus to promote her charity.
Of Thumbelina's tours, Michael said, "I certainly underestimated the impact it would have on the kids, the charities and their staff... And I certainly never guessed that it would change my life in so many ways."
Be sure to watch Thumbelina's video below, and please SHARE if this tiny horse put a smile on your face!
