La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Artesia

I’ve stayed at this hotel many times for business over the past year, but I checked in just minutes ago for a short three-night stay and was met with a very unfriendly front desk attendant. He seemed irritated that I had walked in. After taking my ID, he asked if I had a pet. I said I had a trained service dog, but he treated us as unwelcome and said there would be an extra charge. I explained that she’s a working service animal, not a pet. He rolled his eyes and said, “How would you like it if I came to your job and made it hard on you?” I asked what I’d done to deserve that response. He then demanded her training credentials and said he needed a copy. I tried to explain that he wasn’t allowed to ask for those under ADA laws, though he could ask what task she performs. That only made him more enraged and irritated. I considered leaving and calling the police. I understand that some people claim dogs are service animals when they aren’t formally trained, but I’ve stayed here many times and never had this problem. I don’t feel welcome at this property and will raise the issue with the property manager and Wyndham corporate.

The rooms were quiet and comfortable, and the staff were very friendly and helpful. I enjoyed my stay. Thanks.

We rented two rooms and had a nice, quiet night. The La Quinta in Artesia looked very new, had decent prices, and included an excellent breakfast. We were headed south to Carlsbad Caverns NP, but the Carlsbad options we found were either booked or looked old and were “pet friendly.” Artesia is about an hour from Carlsbad, and we’re very glad we stayed there.

The beds were comfortable, the rooms were clean, and breakfast was good, so it was a great experience overall. The hot tub wasn’t heated, and I would’ve appreciated a smile at check-in and some touch-up paint in the room.