Splendor Farms — Hotel in Abita Springs

We visited Splendor farms as a last second get away for a Saturday evening. I called Saturday morning to see about a vacancy that evening. Kelly, the owner, answered and was polite and prompt about getting back to me about an opening that evening. We heading out, and arrived around 4:15. The farm was easy to find, about 30 minutes from the Covington exit off of I-12. It was quickly evident that the farm was a working farm and that friendly dogs were present. However, although the farm was not super manicured and landscaped, it was laid out very well and clean. There was a kennel close to the house which housed alot of eager to let you know they were there puppies. Kelly quickly showed us around, and let us know to review the welcome packet, as it had important information. She showed us the dining room, with its games, coffee and beautiful table. We were next shown our room, the Ponderosa room, which had a microwave, and mini fridge on its screened in porch. The room was beautiful, exuded warmth and the decor was on theme. After reviewing the rules we explored. There is a saltwater pool (closed for the season), a hot tub (that we unfortunately didn't enjoy, no bathing suits) and a fire pit (which we later heavily enjoyed) all close to the house and the rooms. The farm has a gorgeous white pony, 2 burros (one was pregnant), a few goats, chicken,and 2 super fluffy bunnies. We followed the rules as we explored, ie if you open a gate close it. We were escorted by 2 super old and friendly farm dogs, and encountered multiple super sweet farm cats. The fields were a bit muddy, but it had obviously rained a few days before. We only explored one field with horses, but they were super sweet and the fields were well cared for. We went to the local Hog Heaven for BBQ (highly recommend, 15 minutes away, huge portions, delicious). After dinner we headed back and enjoyed the fire pit. We turned in early, because the bed was soooo comfortable. Unfortunately, the temperature dropped super quickly overnight, but it was on the forecast. Breakfast in the dining room the next morning was delicious, the french toast was perfect and the huervos rancheros was authentic. We decided to opt out of the trail ride the following morning because we hadn't packed for the rain (silly us). Kelly however offered coats and gloves, which was a kind gesture and really appreciated. We will definitely be back in the summer and better prepared. A few things to remember about this place, there is a kennel on site as Kelly is an award winning Dachshund shower and breeder, and she rescues them (that's alot of Dachshund dedication), so there is barking and some smell. However, Kelly provided ear plugs in the rooms for the barking and its outside, so the smell isn't terrible. Another thing to note is as this is a small business. check or cash is preferred, since credit card companies charge that nasty transaction fee to businesses, but Kelly will take credit cards if necessary. Additionally, Kelly teaches lessons, does camp, and trails rides, so she knows her horses. Just like any horse person I've encountered over the years, Kelly has a no nonsense attitude about her place. However, she manages to be clear about her farm and the rules while being warm and friendly. This is obviously what she is born to do and she is amazing at it. We will be visiting again, multiple times and...

This commercial breeder has been reported to the AKC. The breeder placed profit, social media, and dog aesthetics above the welfare of my dog. Here is my personal experience with this breeder, Kelly McKinney:

1. sold me an unhealthy and emotionally traumatized dog, per a professional dog behaviorist assessment

2. misled me about Sunni's age (initially said she was 2yrs old and then upon delivery and a $1000 deposit, told me she was 4yrs old and 4mos. Then she ESCALATED the purchase price upon delivery from $1200 to $2000. By this time I was already emotionally prepared and attached to this dog after the deposit.

3. Additionally, she ignored all attempts at communication regarding ongoing medical problems ($4750.54 to date within the first 14mos of purchase). The breeder only responded by blocking me on her facebook page. My dog had a LARGE and painful 1.5cm stone in her tiny bladder which took many months to resolve before considering surgery, and then recurrent UTI's and then an enlarged heart within the first 14 mos of my purchase of her. All veterinary reports were sent to her to prove this and yet there was still no response of apology, sympathy, nor empathy. Upon requesting a prior medical history before purchase, the breeder sent them to me after name-calling and bullying text messages. I found this reaction and lack of response shocking, uncaring, unprofessional, disrespectful and unacceptable.

4)The breeder initially told me her adult dogs were ONLY bred twice before selling them as young adults. My dog's prior medical records indicated a c-section at a young age of 2 yrs and a post-op muzzle for anxiety and pain, and then subsequent artificial insemination every 6-8 months of her first 4yrs of life. It is no wonder my behavior therapist for dogs said she was the most anxious and frightened dog she had ever met for being an AKC dog. This was an additional $2000 for behavior therapy that remains ongoing.

These actions constitute a series of unethical behaviors, which are unacceptable for a breeder claiming to be of good merit with the AKC. With this sequence of events, it would have been more appropriate for the breeder to compensate me something or at least minimally charge me (and other clients) for RESCUING her adult dogs rather than charging $2000 for a 4+ yr old retired female after multiple artificial insemination breeding.

I was made aware of several other buyers who got dogs with very similar behavioral problems, and also early onset spinal problems. I am writing this to hopefully help future dachshunds and let this breeder know that she needs to improve her practice ethics and take care of her adult dachshunds better.

I would not have gone to these measures of writing a review to caution other buyers if the breeder would have communicated kindly to my messages and at least provided empathy and some form of compensation for the high veterinary bills and the...

Our journey to Splendor Farms was mainly to visit Kelly and see the dogs she had in the kennels. Driving over seven hours from Atlanta GA to Bush LA, we were not really sure what to expect when we arrived. The peaceful nature of the surrounding area set the stage for a very tranquil, relaxing stay. As we approached Splendor Farms, it was obvious this was not just a quaint B&B with a dog kennel, but a true working Farm. As we pulled in and parked the car, we were greeted by some of the staff. They were pleasant and directed us to where Kelly was. We met her emerging from the one of the kennels. From the moment we introduced ourselves, I got that warm feeling of being welcomed. We chatted and then she showed us around and introduced us to the various litters and dogs in her kennels. I am still amazed at how she keeps track of all the dogs’ names and linages! After spending some time talking with Kelly, we were shown our room. I was pleasantly surprised that the air conditioning was cool and crisp, the room had a TV (unlike many B&Bs), and the décor was appealing, neat and clean. From someone who travels extensively for work, I appreciated the comfort and cleanliness of the room. The room has a fridge and as Kelly alerted us, “There are hotdogs and crackers in the fridge – the hotdogs are for bait when you go fishing and crackers are to feed the goats.” Bamboo fishing poles are hung alongside the barn – there’s something special about them, it brought back memories of my childhood! Being late in the day, Kelly offered recommendations for dinner in the local area. (Note - An abundance of menus are available in the dining room). We took her advice and drove to Abita Springs for dinner – This is a quaint town not far away that offers a variety of food selections. We returned to the farm later in the evening and relaxed in our room. We filled out our breakfast selection, “slipped it under the door” as directed and then hit the sack. Peaceful, quiet and refreshing is how I describe our night. I woke to the smell of bacon. That’s always a winner! We relocated to the dining room where we found fresh juices, hot coffee, and a smiling Kelly. (This woman is amazing, her day starts at 3-4 AM – she attends to the needs of the farm, the kennels and then shows up looking completely refreshed and prepares breakfast for her guests! Her vivacious personality will surely make your visit memorable!) Breakfast started with fruit, yogurt and granola cup. Followed by delicious fresh French Toast with hot syrup, and bacon…MMM good! I recommend this B&B if you want delicious food, a relaxing farm environment and are comfortable around genuine people that work hard to make your stay enjoyable. We will...