Possible separation anxiety

Question
I have an 18 week old lab that is going crazy when we leave her. She is kept in a crate with plenty of toys and something to chew while we are gone but when we return we find that she has moved her crate several feet across the floor and it is usually soaked with drool. When she is let out she jumps on us repeatedly and cries and dribbles some. She is usually quite hyper for about 30 mins. or so after we return home. We leave quickly and quietly after she is in her crate and leave music playing for her. What else can we do to make our separations easier on all of us? Thank you!

Answer
I'd spend a lot of time getting her comfortable hanging out in the crate with the door open and people present. And rehearse leaving and coming right back. Be sure you aren't making returns emotional, and do some training to give her thinking and coping skills. Sometimes it's helpful to video record your dog when you are gone so it's clear how anxious she really is. Here's a good article on SA http://www.clickersolutions.com/articles/2002/sa.htm
Sandy Case BFA MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com