Doggie Update

We have recently began to put Ginger in her kennel for night time (basement cooler in summer) and when we're gone (can't stay in a hot car). Surprisinly she seems to be okay with it. She is a "den" dog, meanding she was bred to like small, tight spaces. She can often be found under one of our beds for a quick nap or hideout. However, I've notice a simultaneous improvement in her overall behavior since we've begun to crate her again. She isn't running away anymore for startes. Even if we leave the front door open she just "hangs out" on the front walk or unfenced front yard. She also is having better social behavior with other dogs and people. We recently took her to the 'Go Dog Go' dog fair at our local park and she was great! She didn't growl at other dogs or try to start something with any of them. Of course we kept her on a short leash and Jason (her alpha) was with us. Still, I am wondering if there could be a positive correlation?? I am hoping so! Even her barking seems to be down. Perhaps the vet was correct when he said that dogs crave kennels, just like kids crave boundaries. Maybe we were just giving her too much freedom and she was exploiting it. We will be out of town for a few nights next month without a place for her to stay (the grandparents are away). I am looking into boarders and think I have found a good one out in Woodinville that is for small dogs only. The owner even has a Westie of her own and it is kennel/cage free. We will visit, with Ginger and the kids, on Thurs. morning at 8am (yes, 8 to 9 am are the visiting hours!). If it works out I'll post the web link for the place. I've also been meaning to try out Pup Scrub, a self cleaning dog place. You bring your dog and muscle power, they provide the tubs and soap. Might be fun for the kids. Might be chaos for me though.