well, my sister took care of him for a couple of weeks in the summer but that was totally different, i was 3 hours away and she was at home the whole time.

this time it'll be a different continent and for approximatly 10 months (on the low end) possibly more. BUT that is a good suggestion (i dont know why i didnt think of it) and i guess if shes willing and i train her properly over the summer then i would feel comfortable with that. i'll have to look into it. thank you

Still...is there anything else you can think of guys?