I have a friend that adopted a shelter dog with separation anxiety.

Maybe they can keep her in a small dog cage with her favorite blankets toys and atreat when they leave, start first maybe 10 -15 minutes they can walk outside while she is in the cage take keys etc like you were going to leave and come and go using the same door you aleays use have patience it will work out my sons dog loves her special place when she gets tired of their 2 year old they leave the cage open when they are home she comes and goes as she pleases when they leave the house she knows thats the place to go she feels safe and secure their

Separation anxiety is a terrible thing -- for the pooch and for the owners... This might be the reason the pooch was given up to the shelter. I used to do adoptions at a shelter I vol'd at... What I would tell people -- no matter the age of the dog -- it needs to learn your routine -- coming/going, etc. Never give a new dog run of the house -- they need to 'earn it'. Confinement is the best -- crate training or baby gate a linoleum floored area (easy to clean up). Do not make a big deal when you are leaving -- don't fawn over the dog -- and before you leave -- give it a fave toy or a busy bone to work on (real marrow bone hollow filled w/peanut butter, cream cheese, american cheese or some canned dog food -- leave radio on too for company. When come home -- don't make a big deal over dog either -- ignore her/him until he settles down -- take him right outside and lotsa praise for potty. And if you come home to a mess -- cannot punish -- need to catch dog in the act -- they will not know 'what they did' -- will only act guilty b/c of your tone of voice. No matter the age of the dog -- pup or adult -- treat all like a pup -- after done eating/sleeping/playing -- goes outside to go potty. A leash helps too with the special potty words... The separation anxiety usually happens within first 30-60 mins after person has left -- that is why so important to leave in a quiet fashion. Tell your friends not to feel sorry for the dog and it's past -- but to focus on the present and future -- they might have a journey ahead, but it will be soooo worth it! Also -- alot of exercise can relieve some of the tensions the dog might have -- I always say -- a tired dog is a good dog. Hope this helps...