Vacation dog question??

And how great will the vacation be if you worry about the dog while you're gone? If you haven't been away for 7 years, the dog is obviously not used to being alone at home for long. I think having someone come in to feed him and let him out but basically leaving him on his own for almost four days might freak him out. If he's not used to sleeping outdoors, now is not the time to start. Considering your budget----Best option: someone he knows stays in the house. Second best: a kennel. He might not enjoy it but will be safe and should get exercise. Call around, go see a place or two. Third(actually this is the best if you can find it but might cost a bit more than a kennel)--ask your vet, call local dog trainers and see if anyone local, who is experienced, good with dogs and has proper fencing and such, boards dogs in their home. It might be worth it, even on a budget as you are, to have peace of mind while you're away. A friend of mine does this and her boarders usually leap out of the car and don't notice their owners leaving, the second time they stay with her. Wish we were in your area!