I do know how you feel because I went through the same thing this past Christmas. I asking for references for a good place to leave my dog .I did not feel comfortable leaving him at the vet's office. They are great there but leaving him in a cage for most of the day
Then there was an awesome company that I have heard good things about. I would have paid about $400 for them to come to my house and feed,play ,walk him. I ended up buying a popup tent at Target that was collapsable and very ,very lightweight. I took him with us on vacation anyway! My stomach was in knots with worry thinking of leaving him.If I had a friend near me I would have been able to leave him but everyone lives far! If possible have your friend come over to your house everyday to feed and cuddle your furbaby for a little while. It's better than worrying about small kids being around all the time.
Genie,Cookie & Lola