Would like to lessen the stress for dog when we leave for vacation?

Most probably, the dog won't panic, but he may be low and restless and refuse to eat. If your friend's mom can stick to basically the same routines as you do and try not to force herself on the dog too much until he gets used to her, I'm pretty certain things will be fine.

If he has his own bed or bedding, bring it there, plus his favourite toys and his usual food.

Remember that the dog will probably miss you a lot less than you will miss him, and dogs have no real sense of time so the length of the vacation doesn't really matter.

If you're dog has a favorite toy or blanket make sure that it goes with him/her. Also an interesting tip I have heard is to take your dogs bed or blanket or pillow and place it either in your closet or laundry room for a few days before you leave. It'll make the scent of your home more concentrated so the dog will feel more at home away from home. Get special treats you know your dog loves. If it is OK with you, allow the person caring for your dog to give it table scraps if you like. It's not an extremely healthy option, but it is a good distractor and gives the dog something to look forward to!

I get SUPER stressed out about leaving my sweet pup behind...So I feel your pain! I think you're doing the right thing by not putting your dog in a kennel. I would pack a thoughful bag of his/her favorite toys, stuffed animals, food, bones and an article of your clothing (or a blanket) with your natural scent (not perfume).

Otherwise, if at all possible, arrange for a pre-visit at the home where he we be staying. Then try to arrange for someone the dog knows and loves to stop by for a visit while you are away. I've found this to be a great way of letting a dog know he/she has not been left behind.

Have a fun vacation! Your pup will be so happy to see you when you return, but sounds to be in good hands while you're away! :)

The dog will be fine as long as he/she has some company. Dogs are social animals and a little extra time spent with the friends mom ahead of time may soften the blow for the dog. Take the dog over a couple of days in advance even if only for a visit.

I'd suggest taking the dog over for visits several times before you leave. Take the dog over for an afternoon, leave and let the dog spend the day with the friend's mom. Then go pick up the dog. That way, going over there will become more routine for the dog and it will be more used to its new surroundings.

Arrange visits to the house he'll be staying at so he gets used to the smells and sounds. He can also spend some time with his "baby sitter". Consider leaving him briefly, just so he learns that his "home away from home" is OK and not a death sentence.

Leave him with things that have your smell on them. Pillowcases are good for this.

Bring his favorite toys.

Try leaving him some clothing that members of the family have worn, the familiar smell can be comforting. Also, make up a schedule of his normal activities, a familiar routine will help to keep him relaxed and comfortable.

well ive watched its me or the dog before and there are many stressful dog episodes any what they did is that they walked out of the room (the room has to have a door so when you walk out you can close the door) first they waited 30 seconds then walked back in saying good boy and praising him then you walk back out wait 1 min then go in and prasise keep adding 30 seconds until when you walk back in your dog is settled laying down on the floor calm when you start geetinng to 3 min utes walk back in but inore him not giving eye contact

Include some of his favorite toys. Any bedding he uses. And maybe some piece of clothing from what you wear that would have your scent on them. It'll make him feel somewhat better. It's good he's staying with a relative, that in and of itself will make it easier.

Bring him to the neighbor for small sessions with you and by himself before you leave. It will help him build a comfort with the environment.

If he has a set schedule ask the neighbor to try their best to follow it.