Article: Itty-Bitty Champ; Thumbelina, 171/2 Inches Tall, Is the World's Smallest Horse

Just 171/2 inches tall, Thumbelina is one horse who's more inclined to walk under fences than jump them.

The little mare, who turned 6 on Tuesday, is the world's smallest living horse, according to Guinness World Records. But the 57-pound Missouri miniature has a big mission: raising $1 million this year for children's charities.

Her handler, Michael Goessling, says that Thumbelina is the perfect children's helper.

"When kids meet her in person, they want to talk to her and know what she likes and dislikes," he said. "It's amazing because she is so loving with people. She craves attention."

Thumbelina, who is named for the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale of a woman the size of a thumb, ...

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