Thanks for the helpful comments!
I've been looking into some things and found a list of shuttles and AT support services that includes some of those people/ organizations willing to kennel and transport your dog to the other side of the Smokies, in case anyone else is interested in the info:
http://www.appalachiantrail.org/docs...B%206-7-11.pdf
I am still very determined to make this trip a reality and would love to talk / share tips with anyone else who has similar goals or experience