separation anxiety again

Question
When my JRT came to my home, there were 3 people to care for him and he was never left alone more than 4 hours. Now it is just me, the mom. I have no choice but to leave him about 8 hours and found that he was calmer being confined to a loft area of my home. In recent months his separation anxiety has manifested itself in very destructive behavior. Chewing railings, pulling up carpet and clawing doors to rooms he wants into. He will always pee in the house in less than six hours. He is so frustrated with the lack of exercise and a job to do that he makes his own. I love him but cannot do more for him now. Is it less humane to start crating him at the age of 8 or to find a better home for him. Both options seem very bad. I need to do something before he learns how to use a chain saw! Help is appreciated. Thanks. s

Answer
Hi Stacey,

Is there ANY way you can come home for lunch from work?
If not, think about hiring a responsible neighborhood kid to come in at least once a day to take him out, take him for a walk, play with him, feed/water him. If they stay an  hour and really provide some comfort, exercise, fun and companionship, I think you'll see a marked improvement in your dog.  It's like babysitting, so pay about $8 a day - good money for a teen and not expensive for you and will do your Jack a WORLD of good!!  Some people put their dogs in doggy day care which is another good option, but may be an expense you can not incur right now, which is why the neighborhood kid works out great!
It's not a good life for any dog to be stuck home alone all day long, but especially a jack russell and I think a crate would be worse and make him angry and even more aggressive. I know you love him a lot by the tone and content of your question and I'm glad you're trying to make things better for him! Very best of luck!!!