Thumbelina holds the Guinness World Record as the smallest living horse, her height is only 17.5 inches but that does not stop her from standing tall! Her small stature can cause several health related problems, she wears special orthotic shoes to help with her crooked legs. Thumbelina is an inspiration to everyone, especially children, because despite her size and challenges, she does extraordinary things.
She travels across the United States & Canada to visit children in need, to date she has visited over 300 hospitals, special schools and more. Wherever she goes she brings hope & joy to children in need, including kids with disabilities. Watch this video about Thumbelina visiting a children’s hospital in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Thumbelina & her owners Michael & Kay Goessling, continue to help children in need through the Thumbelina Charitable Foundation which raises money and supports many children’s charities. This wonderful, loving little horse shows us all that no matter our size, ability or other challenges, we can make a difference.
Many people with disabilities find horse therapy or therapeutic riding to be beneficial. Karly Wahlin has Rett Syndrome and a miniature horse, named Beau. Her family discovered that when she is riding horses or around Beau, she does not hyperventilate.
What do you think of Thumbelina’s Story? Have you experienced the calming effect that animals can have on people?
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