Hiya
I've got a bit of a problem this morning so would just like some advice. I'm visiting relatives for dinner today, & afterwards Ive been asked to a bit of an evening 'do' as well. Trouble is that Ive never left Dylan for more than about 3 hours. He's 7 months old (a Cocker) & I intend to take him for a really long walk this morning to wear him out. What do you reckon is the maximum for keeping him in his crate, I darent let him have the run of the house beacause of the Christmas tree, he's already tried eating loads of the baubles lol. In the hall we have wires to outside lights so that wouldnt be safe either.  I have said I'll give the later 'do' a miss because I cant stand the thought of him being caged up. Theres no way I can pop back to let him out as its too far to travel. Any help would be much appreciated :-)
Penny
Damn hes just nicked another bauble while I'm sat here typing lolol 

i wouldnt crate him for more than a couple of hours.....is there any possibility he could come with you  and maybe you could crate him in a quiet room there? at least you could keep popping back. if not, i suspect you should only go to either lunch OR the evening, as if he is not used to being left, its a bit much to do both.

Hmm I'd love to take him with me, but the people we are visiting really hate dogs. Its a bit of a shock when you love dogs so much, & find out some people just cant bear being near them.       

Pop his cage in the back of your car.  Take him with you and leave him in the car, in his cage.  You can then check up on him at regular intervals, take him for a quick stroll round the block post lunch and give him all the attention he needs!  I know leaving a dog in the car isn't ideal, but as a one off, and as an alternative to leaving him unattended at home I am sure he will be fine.  Just remember to give him a nice blanket to cuddle up on and check him regularly.

Have a good day!

Leaving him in the car won't kill him just this once, as long as you do pop back now and then and give him walks, food and leave some water for him in the cage.

Rox