Phillies Fan Loses Beloved Emotional Support Alligator While On Vacation

Last year, a Philadelphia Phillies fan attempted to bring an "emotional support alligator" named Wally into Citizens Bank Park. Just over six months later, that same alligator is now missing.

Wally’s owner, Joie Henney, reported that he lost his beloved animal in late April on a vacation in Brunswick, GA. Apparently, NBC reported that Wally was stolen from his outdoor enclosure.

(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Afterward, the alleged thieves brought the 5’ 6" alligator to their house, and called the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to have Wally released into the wild. The department confirmed that they had released him into a remote location.

Upon learning that his beloved pet had been stolen, Henney released a video on TikTok and asked for his followers to help out with bringing him back home.

"We need all the help we can get to bring my baby back," Henney said. "Please, we need your help."

For nearly a decade, Wally has helped Henney stave off his battle with depression. But the man has not kept the alligator all to himself, he’s shared his pet’s services with anyone who needs a hug from a reptilian friend.

In September 2023, Henney even tried to bring Wally into a Phillies game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, the stadium prevented him from coming in, due to some noise about Wally not being a dog or a cat.

Frankly, I’ve never been more concerned over the well-being of an animal. If we need to get the National Guard involved in this case, so be it. Henney needs Wally, and Wally needs Henney.

Bring the Gator home!