carole ~ Bobcat and I know how you feel. We recently took a 1-week trip to the state of Oregon. Though it rained and stormed the whole time we were there, it was still 30 degrees warmer than it was in Alaska. So, it was a nice break.

We had a great catsitter and everything, but Bobcat worried and worried the whole time. It just so happens that a Pet Communicator was staying at the B&B we were in. (Her name is Diane Gianlorenzo and she's amazing). Anyway, at breakfast one morning, she said "Your long-haired kitty wants to know when you're coming home." Now,she knew we had cats but had never seen photos of them to know that we had a long-haired kitty (Willow).

We told her that we would be home on Tuesday. She said she "told" Willow when we'd be home and Willow was happy.
We asked how she told Willow. She said when you're leaving your pets, send them a mental picture of the sun coming up and the sun going down for every day that you will be gone. On the day that you're coming home, just send a mental picture of the sun coming up. Then they know that's the day you're coming home.

Who knows if it works? But, what can it hurt?

Have fun on your trip.