oh my --- I understand totally!!! I agree not to take to boarding if you can. Around here there are people who will take dogs in-- or you could bring him down with you
The cost of bringing him may not be much different than having a sitter.
Now for me, and I have three so they really don't get lonely, I have a local girl walk them if I am gone a few days. For longer trips I take them to a friends house. My guys are very people orientated so they are happier. Would your friend take him to her house at night?
Good luck!!