answer:I’m in a similar situation. I’m not gone as many hours as you and also leave Frodo gated in the kitchen. I do crate at times but only for an hour or two when I am home or when the cleaner is coming. He does seem bored and very demanding of my attention when I am home and I also use kongs, bones, toys, etc. I do walk him but not as much during this icy, snowy weather. He has also chewed through baseboards, etc. Have you tried Bitter Apple spray to keep her from chewing things? I know it sometimes seems like you have to spray everything in the house. Last week, he chewed his new bed, a phone cord, a chapstick and nearly through a router cable. Plus he is still nipping and mouthing me a lot. Sorry – misery loves company. I think the doggie day care makes sense and if it is a good place, you can tell them of your concerns and do a trial run. The place I would go to is $18 so I will only use it occasionally but yours is a good deal. You could leave her there for just a few hours as a test and, as I said, if it is a good place, they will tell you how she was.