Submission clarification--Here's what I'm looking for!

Right!
I don't want anyone to spend a lot of time writing and submitting a piece only to learn that it is not going to 'fit' in this book. There seems to be some confusion here so I'd like to clarify what I need from you.
I am getting a lot of detailed narratives explaining what happened to "Fido" (for example) and his health concerns. This is fine and is helpful as a backstory but what I am really interested in are any specific ways Fido has impacted your life, the lives of your other dogs, or anyone else for that matter. My vision is to have each story feature an angle that will highlight the way these dogs empower us, inspire us or move us. For instance, think of a way in which Fido has powered up a personal emotional response. What did he do that made you feel frustrated, overjoyed, astounded, anguished or proud? Perhaps it was the way he helped your other disabled pet (...and then he went over to Rex and nudged him toward the doggie door. I couldn't believe my eyes...) or maybe he has changed the way you feel about yourself (....so I made the phonecall that would change my life. Without Rex I truly don't know if I would be here to today...) I am also looking for funny stories (Fido's heightened sense of smell took him straight to each one of those Easter eggs and the kids woke up to shreds of tin foil all over the house...) .
I also want to stress that you don't need to actually write the story if it is not your forte. True, I am thrilled to have received some powerfully moving and eloquent submissions. However, as a writer I can flesh out a great story by talking with you by phone or online. I am happy to get outlines or even a single line: "Would you be interested in hearing about the day Fido went to the hospital and met a guy who had just lost his leg?" Heck, YES! At this point I would fire back a response and we would take it from there. If you are not sure, send it in. One line is all it takes.
I hope this helps! Remember, the backstory is great so I can get a sense of the dog's history. But the meat of this book lies in the compelling stories which will bring these dogs to life. The topic must make the reader laugh or cry or rage or wonder. But the reader must feel in order for the story to succeed.
You kow when your dog has affected you...share it with the world!
K.

Getting the word out...

Today I began putting the word out. Yes, I decided this site was ready and so I finally told someone! I contacted friends via e-mail and Facebook and have started reaching out to folks in online support groups. This part will keep me busy for sure. There are so many resources I can tap into--it's just a matter of finding them.  There is a huge list to work from--vet clinics, shelters, rescues, and even personal blogs. Can't talk--gotta go to work on this!

Day One!!! Launch Day!

Here we go!  I am really excited to launch this blog and am hoping to hear from those of you who would like to share your story.
I intend to donate a portion of the proceeds to an animal welfare group, although I have not decided which one. At this point I am looking for dog stories only, although depending on how this goes I may branch out to other animals in the future.
If you know of anyone who would be a resource for me, let me know! I'll need as much help as I can to get the word out!
Once I have gathered some material I will obtain an agent and move forward from there. Please be patient and understand this can take a little while.
At this time I cannot promise reimbursement for your submissions. I may revisit this at a later time...
Finally, don't worry too much about editing your story. That's what I'm here for! Of course, I'll work with you so we are both in agreement about the finished piece. It is, after all, YOUR story.
Thanks and I'm excited to hear from you!