A Phillies fan was left disappointed after being denied entry to a game—not because of a ticket issue, but because of his unusual companion: a four-foot-long emotional support alligator named Wally.
Yep, you read that right.
We’ve all heard of emotional support dogs and maybe even cats, but for Joie Henney, comfort comes in a more… scaly package. Wally, his beloved alligator, has been by his side for years, helping him cope with depression and cancer.
Henney, a former reptile rescuer with three decades of experience, says Wally is unlike any gator he’s ever met—completely docile, affectionate, and, according to him, totally harmless. But when he tried to bring Wally into Citizens Bank Park to watch the Phillies take on the Pittsburgh Pirates, stadium security wasn’t having it.
According to the stadium’s policy, only service animals are allowed—emotional support animals don’t make the cut, especially if they have, you know, fangs.
But Henney and Wally didn’t let rejection ruin their night. Outside the stadium, the alligator quickly became the star attraction. Fans gathered to snap selfies, pet Wally’s head, and marvel at the most unexpected Phillies supporter ever.
So, how did this cold-blooded friendship even begin?
Henney first met Wally seven years ago when a friend brought him a baby gator from Florida, where overpopulation was an issue. The two bonded instantly, and Wally quickly proved to be… well, different.
“He doesn’t show anger. He doesn’t show aggression. He hasn’t since the day he was caught. We never could understand why,” Henney told CNN.
But Wally isn’t just chill—he’s affectionate.
“He sleeps with me, steals my pillows, steals my blankets. He’s just awesome,” Henney said.
In 2019, Wally officially became a licensed emotional support animal, helping Henney through his cancer treatments. While doctors offered medication for depression, Henney refused—he had Wally instead.
“Alligators are easier to train than dogs,” he insists, adding that Wally has never once tried to bite anyone.
Despite being turned away from the game, Henney wouldn’t trade his unlikely best friend for anything.
And honestly? There’s something kind of adorable about a man and his alligator against the world.
Would you ever consider getting an emotional support gator? Or maybe just stick to a cat / dog?
