Steve, my heart goes out to you and the choice you have to make. I as a paraplegic questioned whether I could love my Gizmo the way an able bodied person could when I rescued him. I became this way from a failed spinal cord surgery just over 5 years ago. I want to say that it was my drs suggestion I get a physical, as well as emotional support service dog, and after much contemplating, I decided to give it a try. I can honestly say that not only did I never plan to be medically disabled, but I also underestimated what that love of a dog could do for me healing in many different ways. I of course still a paraplegic, but WOW the change in my attitude that has become so positive is incredible. These little fur babies give so much more then we realize, such as I do now. I did not realize how ad I was, until Gizmo showed me how much he could give. At stage 3, you have a very good chance of coming through this good, even though it seems so bleak right now. I know what anger and heartbreak can do to you, and I never realized it till it changed.
I am sure your pup loves you to pieces, and if he's anything like my Gizmo, he could adjust to what you are able to give him, while still keeping your fighting spirit strong. I wonder if its a good thing to let that go. You know when I have a bad day and can't walk much, but just have to lay down because I am in so much pain, my Gizmo seems to understand, and he lies right next to me while I get through it. I guess after this long post, what I'm trying to say, is your pup could be very bennificial to you and your healing, and I would seriously reconsider getting rid of him, because he could end up being just what you need to get through this.
I am giving yu a link to my blog, and it explains what I live through. I haven't updated it in a while, because to me it was a place to put my anger, and I am thankful I am not that angry person anymore. Just please think about it, remember you can't change your mind once its done, and I truly believe you need him as much as he needs you xoxo you will be in my heart and prayers (((HUGS)))
Here is the link to my blog so you can read for yourself, how a pup can change you, and that I am speaking from experience :-)
LIVING LIFE WITH CES AFTER FAILED TARLOV SURGERY
Good luck on your treatments and healing, I just know you can do this !!!!! :-)