What my dog does when I leave home

[Catherine]

I think the tape would be a good idea. I know they have special DVDs that you can play on your TV that are done special to amuse cats or dogs.
I like the music idea. Interesting that Misty influenced your taste in Music. I think animals like music and it does help them to pass the time. Sitting alone in silence is boring even for a dog. I am sure there are many ways to ease the boredom and anxiety. Clearly some dogs feel actual abandonment. They must fear that there person will not come back.

Could they be "trained" to know that the person will return. The person could make a big show of saying goodbye, stay away a short time and then make a big show out of returning. Having a treat upon return would be good. Then the length of the absence could be increased. The dog would get into a rhythm of separation and return. The treat would reinforce the return part. It might require a bit of effort, but it would be worth it to prevent such anxiety.