Sorry I'm so slow to respond to your questions. First of all thank you for your concern and suggestions. I think the "Kong" is a great idea, where do I get a couple? The kennel I keep them in is outside and it's about 10 ft by 7 ft. We bricked off an area for playing and left gravel/dirt area for pottying (which they use most of the time). It is covered with a tarp and has the dog house for shelter and sleeping. Is this inappropriate to leave them in for 7-8 hours. Where do other people keep their pets while they are at work, (and unable to come home for lunches)?? I hope this doesn't seem bad or inhumane....I try everything to keep them comfortable, they sleep with 10 year old son every night, (under the covers of course)