A man from Pennsylvania, Joie Henney, is on a quest to find his missing alligator, Wally, who has been his loyal companion and emotional support for nearly a decade. The duo's bond has captivated thousands on social media, where Henney shares heartwarming photos and videos of Wally being petted and hugged, likening him to a dog or a teddy bear. Wally's fame soared when he was famously denied entry to a Philadelphia Phillies game.
Henney is devastated after Wally disappeared during their vacation in Brunswick, Georgia. He suspects foul play, believing someone stole Wally from his outdoor enclosure. Despite Henney's desperate pleas on TikTok and other platforms, Wally remains missing.
Henney rescued Wally in 2015 from Florida when the alligator was just 14 months old. Wally helped Henney cope with depression, endorsed by his doctor as an emotional support animal. Henney fondly remembers Wally as gentle and loving, never posing a threat to anyone.
While no official reports have been filed, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources did capture a nuisance alligator in the area on the day Wally disappeared. However, it's uncertain if this was Wally. In Georgia, owning alligators without a special license is illegal, contrasting with Pennsylvania's more lenient laws on exotic pet ownership.
Wildlife experts caution about the dangers of keeping alligators, emphasizing their unpredictable nature. Despite the risks, Henney's story underscores the deep bond that can develop between humans and animals, offering comfort and companionship in unexpected forms.