Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding
Milton, Delaware
Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding (SDTR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit on a farm in Milton, Delaware. Please note: SDTR is not accepting new Riding Interest Forms through December 31, 2026, while it restructures its program for 2027. According to its website, it has offered one-on-one therapeutic riding and ground work for people with disabilities and other challenges since 1988.
- One-on-one therapeutic riding lessons (30-60 minutes)
- Ground work with horse and instructor
- Horse care, grooming and equipment handling
- Summer camp session
- Volunteer training
- People with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges
- Autism and Asperger's syndrome
- Cerebral palsy and spina bifida
- Multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy
- Head trauma and ADD/hyperactivity
- Intellectual and learning disabilities
- Emotional and behavioral challenges, at-risk youth
- PTSD
More about this center
About the Program
SDTR says each lesson is tailored to the rider's diagnosed condition or disability. Lessons run 30 to 60 minutes with a PATH-certified instructor and trained volunteers. Participants who are not riding work on the ground, learning horse behavior, grooming and handling equipment.
The center describes itself as a PATH Intl. affiliated center. Its FAQ says instructors also hold First Aid and CPR certification and complete yearly continuing education. Horses are chosen for temperament, build and gait.
Getting Started
New riders are on hold until 2027 (see the FAQ below). Under the usual process, riders need a diagnosed medical condition or disability that can safely benefit from riding, plus physician approval before the first lesson. The rider application and medical release are mailed to the P.O. Box, and a staff member follows up.
Volunteering
Volunteers serve as sidewalkers or horse leaders, help with horse care and facility upkeep, or assist with fundraising and office work. The process is an interest form, an orientation, an application and a background check, then training.
Location
The farm is at 17170 Harbeson Road, Milton, DE 19968, in eastern Sussex County. Lessons and visits are by appointment only. Mail goes to P.O. Box 219, Nassau, DE 19969.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
Is SDTR taking new riders?
No, not until 2027. The website says new Riding Interest Forms are not accepted through December 31, 2026, while the program is restructured for 2027, with updated details and inquiry opportunities in January 2027.
What does it cost?
Call 302-644-1920 to ask about current rates, and see our guide to equine therapy costs.
Are lessons canceled for weather?
Yes. Lessons are canceled when the heat index is above 95 degrees, below 32 degrees including wind chill, or with thunder or lightning. Snow is decided case by case.
Does SDTR offer trail rides or birthday rides?
No. The FAQ says lesson horses are reserved for program participants.
Location
Milton, Delaware 19968
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.