Leaving Your Dog With a Friend
Oftentimes, your friends or family members can take care of your beloved pooch if you have to be away for an extended period of time. Ask people you trust, and make sure that your expectations are clearly defined. Even if your sitter knows the dog very well, it's best to leave a comprehensive sheet of instructions including feeding schedule, amount of
food given, walk schedule, favorite toys, important phone numbers (vet, etc.) and any unusual behaviors or fears, such as thunder.
It's ideal if the sitter can stay at your house to care for the dog, but it can also work if the situation requires that the dog be moved into your friend's home temporarily. If your dog is comfortable at home alone and able to go outside for potty breaks when she needs to, you might be able to get away with one or two daily visits from the friend to refill food and water bowls and offer some playtime and attention.
Finding a Professional Pet Sitter or Boarder
If your family members or friends can't or won't take over the care of your dog, you might want to look into hiring a professional pet sitter or boarder. 
You can find reputable people by asking your fellow dog lovers or your vet for referrals.
Check your local Yellow Pages for nearby boarders and pet sitters. Many daily newspapers also include ads for those kinds of services. Before you settle on someone, be sure to do a little research. Check out the boarding location, observing the general temperament and conditions of the animals there. Ask the pet sitter for information on any certification or training he may have, and be sure to ask for references.
Some pet owners enlist the help of friends to go visit the dog at the boarding facility while they're away. If the dog is familiar with the visitor, that can sometimes alleviate any anxiety or fear the dog has. The visit also serves the purpose of checking out the quality of care and environment for your canine friend.
