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Gifts Horses

Mike meets Minnie

Cornell University’s Hospital for Animals welcomes its newest resident: Minnie the miniature horse. Minnie’s stint at the hospital as a patient turned into a career as a companion when her owner generously donated her after learning the Hospital was seeking company for Mike, the College’s blood-donor draft-horse.

“Mike lived by himself, and horses are herd animals that do better in groups,” said Dr. Sally Ness, internal medicine resident.

Good timing is a great matchmaker, and despite the size difference the unlikely pair clicked. Minnie has also become a star attraction at the College’s Annual Open House, where she made her first public debut in April 2012 by popular request.

“Twenty kids lined up along the paddock fence asking to ‘pet the pony,’” said Ness. “Students spiffed her up with ribbons, and she was a huge hit. Mike loves his new pal and was actually a little concerned when we borrowed her for the festivities. They are fully moved in together and share his stall and paddock. She is definitely the boss:we were worried about Mike stealing her grain, but in fact she will finish and go over and push him away from his breakfast! But he seems to appreciate the company and doesn’t seem to mind.”

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