Swallow (right) is smaller than the average sheep.
A cow whose tiny stature saved her from the abattoir has entered the record books as the world's smallest.
Swallow, a Dexter cow from Cheshire, stands 33.5in (0.8m) tall from hind to foot - shorter than most sheep.
The 11-year-old, who is currently pregnant, has produced nine calves and is described by owner Caroline Ryder as the "nanny of the herd".
Swallow secured a slot with the tallest dog, longest snake and oldest gorilla in the 2011 Guinness World Records.
The tiny cow was born in Newbury, Berkshire in 1999 and bought by the Ryder family at a rare breed auction in 2006.
'Genetic anomaly' Brought up in Rishworth, West Yorkshire, her small size means she is used for breeding, explained Mrs Ryder, who recently moved to Crossley Hall Farm, near Congleton.
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