Owners of Big Jake, the World's Tallest Horse, Pay Tribute After He Dies Aged 20

The owners of Big Jake, the world's tallest horse, have paid tribute to him after he died aged 20.

The Belgian Gelding, standing at 20 hands 2.75 inches (6 feet 8 inches), passed away in June, his owners at Smokey Hollow Farm in Poynette, Wisconsin, wrote on Facebook.

Born in March 2001 to two average-sized horses, Big Jake earned the title of world's tallest living horse in 2010. He used to take part in draft horse contests, but spent the latter years of his life retired at Smokey Hollow.

Announcing his death, Smokey Hollow Farm wrote on Facebook: "It is with a heavy heart we share the passing of Big Jake.

"Big Jake was much more than a world record holder. He was a central part of our family. We feel very privileged to have had him in our lives. He truly loved people and impacted many over the course of his lifetime. We will miss you!!"

Hundreds of Facebook users sent their condolences to the farm beneath the post, with one writing: "As a member of the 'horses are part of the family' club, I feel your pain. Sincere Condolences."

Smokey Hollow Farm owner Jerry Gilbert told WMTV: "Jake was a superstar and I'm not just saying that because he was ours.

"He was truly a magnificent animal. He was extremely talented."

Gilbert described Big Jake as "respectful" and an "extremely hard worker."

"He was truly a gentle giant," Gilbert said.

According to Gilbert, Big Jake weighed 240 pounds (lbs) at birth, which is around 100lbs heavier than the average Belgian foal at that age.

When Big Jake was measured by Guinness World Records in 2018, Gilbert said the farm bought him when he was 3 years old, "and he kept growing!"

Gilbert said Big Jake ate a "tad bit" more than the average draft horse, usually a full bucket of grain twice a day, and a bale of hay each day. The supersized horse also lived in a 20 by 20 ft stall, compared with the 12 by 12ft stall a regular horse would be kept in.

His owner described Big Jake as "pretty easy going," and said he loved getting belly rubs and neck scratches.

Following his death, Smokey Hollow Farm shared memories of Big Jake on its Facebook page, including the time he met Romulus, the world's tallest donkey.

Gilbert told WMTV the farm had been "very quiet" since Big Jake's death. He said he believes the other horses are grieving.

"There is a huge void, it feels like he's still here, but he's not." he said. "Day to day, I think we will always feel that Jake is still here. And I don't think that will ever change."