Advice on: a changing bond and it effects

So I've had my QP for maybe about 6/7 years now and since then we've created a very loving bond with one another. He and I get along the most out of all my family members. So here's the problem:

I am going away to college in August and I am so worried that 6 years of bonding will go out the window. I guess I'm just feeling a little sad that Pepino and I will have to part ways. So I guess my question is whether this will negatively affect him? I know they are resilient but I hope he doesn't think that I abandoned him-that just breaks my heart. 

Also, has anyone here gone away for awhile and returned to their beloved QP? How did they react? Did they recognize you, or did they see you as a complete stranger? 

Thanks.