[dipper]

Julie,
You are not an ASS---and you did not bring a MESS on to your family.
You and your family will have learned important lessons through all of this.
I know this is very difficult for you and an agonizing decision, but I think you must realize that you are left with little options.
Again, you may not realize it now, but you will have learned much about dogs in general when you sit down and think about it in the future.
Yes, your family will have some sadness and has had some discomfort over this but what kind of MESS do you think you may have prevented another family??
What if your dog ended up with someone who is not like you??
I really believe you will be doing everyone involved a good service.

This is not normal for the breed as had been said many times.
When you are ready, you can put the same thought and effort into finding another pet---do your homework and find a excellent breeder---you and your family will be much much happier and healthier and owning a dog will be a joy and not a fearful and intense situation.

Good Luck,

Rich