Wally, The Emotional Support Alligator, Takes A Trip To The Phillies And Goes Viral

Wally the alligator captivates hearts as he enjoys a day out at the ballpark.

Davy

• Published in Interesting
• February 24, 2024

Wally, the unusual emotional support alligator, recently made headlines when he attended a Phillies baseball game and stole the show. His unlikely presence at the ballpark captured the attention of fans and media alike, turning him into an overnight sensation. Let's dive into the heartwarming story of Wally's day out at the Phillies and his unexpected rise to viral fame.

An emotional support alligator named Wally caused a stir at Citizens Bank Park during a Phillies game when photos and videos of him and his human companion went viral. Despite his unique presence, Wally was asked to leave, sparking intrigue and discussion about support animal regulations.

But that's not the whole story, owner Joie Henney clarified to NPR.

"We weren't there to attend the ballgame," said Henney, 70. "We were there to meet the players, which was why we went there, and I was invited. I didn't just show up."To grasp the full context, one must appreciate — as Wally's numerous local admirers and online followers do — the immense affection already surrounding this eight-year-old alligator.

Wally boasts over 114,000 followers on TikTok and another 27,000+ on Instagram. He's no stranger to going viral, having delighted audiences by frolicking in the fountain at Philadelphia's iconic LOVE Park last summer. He's been photographed at City Hall alongside the mayor of York and has brought smiles to seniors at a nearby retirement home.

Notably, he served as the visual inspiration for Alligator Loki in the popular Disney+ series Loki."He's truly a global sensation," Henney remarked. This celebrity status earned him an invitation to meet the Phillies.

As Henney recounted, one of Wally's devoted fans, who regularly visits him from New Jersey, is also a fervent Phillies supporter and has connections with some of the players and their spouses.

Upon hearing glowing reviews from this fan, the team extended an invitation to Henney and Wally to visit Philadelphia, just a two-hour drive from their home in Harrisburg. Their intention was not to attend the game but to meet the players.

However, upon arriving at the stadium, Henney discovered that the players were already busy preparing for the game. Despite this, his friend decided to purchase tickets for them to enjoy the game. Unfortunately, she neglected to inquire about the stadium's policies regarding emotional support animals.

"We were in line waiting, and they informed me that I couldn't bring Wally inside because only service animals are allowed," Henney recalled. "I simply respected their rules without any argument or confrontation."

Citizens Bank Park's policy only allows guide dogs, service animals, or service animals in training. Henney stressed he wouldn't bring Wally without an invitation, as they often receive invitations to various places. He hopes people won't rush to criticize without knowing the full story.

Henney clarified that he's not a baseball fan and prefers the York Revolution. Despite the incident, he mentioned that many people at the stadium were thrilled to see Wally, offering hugs and kisses, which is not uncommon for the alligator. The Phillies have expressed interest in having Wally back to meet the players during an off-season game, and Henney is eagerly awaiting their call.

Wally draws attention everywhere he ventures. It's hard not to notice him, being the first reptile officially certified as an emotional support animal, as per Henney. Perhaps it's his leash walking, or the red harness emblazoned with his name. And surely, his unhindered mouth sets him apart, given his gentle demeanor and lack of biting tendencies.

"I've been working with alligators for three decades, and I've never encountered one that wouldn't bite if you got too close to its mouth," Henney remarked.However, Wally is an exception. Henney describes him as more of a living weighted blanket, always eager for affection and particularly fond of chin rubs.

Henney didn't plan on having an alligator as a pet, let alone an emotional support companion. His main profession is in wood crafting, but he also rescues reptiles as a side endeavor. It was through this rescue work that Wally entered his life when he was about 18 months old.

"When I rescue them, they're not my pets — I'm just trying to help them get healthy," he clarified. "But Wally became special, and he bonded with me very closely, so I decided to keep him."Over the years, Henney has shared their story with local and national media, highlighting the unique bond they share.

Wally has been a source of comfort and support for Henney during challenging times, including bouts of depression and significant life events such as the loss of several family members in 2017 and undergoing radiation treatment for prostate cancer last year. Throughout these difficult moments, Wally remained by his side, providing companionship and emotional solace.

Initially skeptical of the idea, Henney eventually followed his doctor's advice to register Wally as an emotional support animal several years ago. Reflecting on the decision, he expressed no regrets, emphasizing the profound impact Wally has had on his life.

"He means a lot to me," Henney shared. "Actually, he means as much to me as my children."

Davy