I live here in Indianapolis, and when I first got Sophia it was WAYYY too cold to even consider taking her outside. So, we are using pee pads and plan to continue to use them. She is not perfect....the hardest is getting her to go poo on them. But, I'm sure she will learn soon enough. Just get some Spot Shot or some good cleaner and keep it handy. NO ONE has to know!! It's only three weeks. I don't think I'd want to send her away either. I'm sure you will come up with something. Keep us posted.