Southern Delaware Therapeutic and Recreational Horseback Riding, Inc

Welcome to Southern Delaware Therapeutic & Recreational Horseback Riding, Inc. (SDTRHR). Our mission is to provide equine-assisted therapy promoting the physical, emotional and educational growth of children and adults with special needs in our community. We are a 501(c)(3), non-profit, PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) affiliated center located in Eastern Sussex County. Presently, we are the only PATH-affiliated center in Sussex and Kent Counties.

Our PATH-certified therapeutic riding instructors and trained volunteers have provided planned sessions in equine-assisted therapy to children and adults with special needs since 1988.

Horseback riding is a progressive form of therapy for individuals with physical and emotional challenges. The gait of the horse is the closest replicating movement to human gait and can be more effective than traditional, clinic-based forms of therapy. The horse's motion helps improve muscular strength, coordination and balance of the rider.

Equine-assisted therapy also provides psychosocial benefits through equine and human interaction that occurs. The horses, instructors and volunteers create a caring environment that enables participants to gain valuable communication and coping skills.