It is probably no consolation at the moment.
But if you do give up Echo, you will have more freedom to make the life-changes you want to. Either study or travel as you won't have a direct dependant.
( JeffTheDogFucker Can you dig it?, Wed 25 May 2011, 18:18, 1 reply, 15 years ago)

Yeah, I feel selfish thinking it, but it's true.
I watch tv one night a week, about an hour and a half, because she's not allowed in the living room and she barks from the other room.
I never go anywhere or do anything if I can't bring her, because it's not fair to her or right to leave her in her cage.
( Lisette von Falcon, Wed 25 May 2011, 18:22, Reply)

Then as upsetting as it might be, it sounds like it is the right decision for both of you.
If Echo will be happy and you'll have less to worry about then it sounds like the difficult decision you've made is for the best.
( JeffTheDogFucker Can you dig it?, Wed 25 May 2011, 18:27, Reply)