What happens on YorkieTalk, stays on YorkieTalk! Besides, it was salty feet!
I'm in the news business too. When I saw his ap.org email address and his phone number, I felt comfortable contacting him. I Googled him too.
I don't know exactly what he has in mind for the story, but I've given thought to owning dogs as I age so maybe I can offer some insight. Things like owning a breed more suited to my lifestyle. I'm not as active as I used to be, so I don't know if I could do justice to a dog that needs miles and miles of vigorous walks every day.
Also, I think it's important at any age to have a plan to will your dog to someone you (and the dog) know and trust.
And when I bought Jillie, I was thinking she likely will be the last pup I ever own. I'll always keep my health and my life expectancy in mind when I get a new dog. The older I get, I'll likely limit myself to older rescues -- something I'll outlive, but barely ...
Then again, he may have something entirely different in mind. I'll let you know if he contacts me.