Moving and leaving my dog

Question
I'm moving in 4 weeks to a large city from a small town.  My dog is 6 years old and I'm thinking the transition to this new location will be hard on her.  But she does love me!  My neighbors across the street really love her, too, they have 2 elementary aged children who adore her.  

I'm thinking it will be best to leave her with them instead of taking her with me.  Which would be harder for Molly?  Changing her environment so radically but staying with me or changing families while remaining in the neighborhood she's comfortable with?  

These friends have watched her for me and she visits over there often, especially when they have birthday parties!  She just walks over and gets all her pets and attention from the relatives.  They all love her too.  

Answer
Hi Brigid!  This is a very hard question for me to answer.  It's a very personal decision.  I know that I, personally, could never leave my babies behind.  How do you feel about leaving her behind?  Six years is a long time to spend with someone!  Do you spend time with her often?  Are you two companions?  If so, it would definitely be easier for her to stay with you.  A new environment is alot easier to adjust to than a new companion.  At her age, it may depress her very deeply to have a change in companionship at this point.  Like I said, it's a very difficult decision.  There is a difference between wondering where she will be happiest and wanting her to be happy with someone else.  If you feel as though your don't want her companionship anymore, letting her live with people who do want it would be best.  But if you are simply worrying that the move will be too stressful, living without you will be way more stressful than any move could ever be.
I hope this helps you make a decision.  I wish you all the luck in the world.  I know this has to be very hard for you, but please, don't leave her behind if you are worried about her dealing with the move.  It may take a bit of time for her to adjust to it, but she will never ever stop missing you.
Take care!
Hilary