“Pumuckl: The World’s Smallest Therapy Horse”

Pumuckl, a horse much smaller than dogs, has remarkable therapeutic abilities and regularly visits the elderly. This pint-sized equine has earned the title of the world’s smallest horse, standing at a mere 50.8 cm.

Pumuckl, a Shetland pony, has captured hearts worldwide and is even expected to make its way into the Guinness Book of Records, though there’s a little wait ahead. This remarkable horse is only three years old but already functions as a caring nurse, spreading happiness and love among the elderly residents of nursing homes.

The story of Pumuckl begins on a large farm in Breckerfeld, Germany, where the Weidemann family resides alongside a couple of dogs and a herd of horses, including this special Shetland pony. Back in 2021, when they brought Pumuckl home, they anticipated a similar height to other ponies, around 70 cm. However, Pumuckl decided to halt its growth at approximately 20 inches, or 50 cm.

For comparison, the British Shetland Pony Club notes that most small Shetland ponies typically weigh around 120 kg, while Pumuckl weighs a mere 35 kg. Pumuckl’s size even allows it to venture indoors, a privilege not granted to other ponies. It can even be found enjoying breakfast in the kitchen. When it’s time for Pumuckl to visit the nursing home, it easily hops into the car via a ramp. Carol Weidemann, Pumuckl’s owner, securely fastens it into the passenger seat, and off they go.

According to Weidemann, they never expected Pumuckl to turn out this way. Now they understand that Pumuckl is something truly exceptional. The idea to pursue a Guinness World Record for the world’s smallest horse came from a visitor to the stables. The current record holder from Poland stands at a shoulder length of 56.7 cm (1 foot 10 inches). As Weidemann proudly states, “Pumuckl is about 50.”

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