The idyllic vacation scene in Brunswick, Georgia, was disrupted by the disappearance of a rather unusual tourist—an emotional support alligator named Wally. The reptile rose to local fame after receiving thousands of social media follows and was previously recognized for his service as he was nominated for "America's Favorite Pet" last year. According to 6abc, Wally vanished on April 21, leaving his owner, Joie Henney, and fans concerned about his whereabouts.
Henney, who hails from Lebanon, PA, has made it clear Wally isn't your regular gator. Known for giving hugs, joining on walks, and even posing for cuddly photos, Wally interacts with people in ways that defy the typical nature of an alligator. In an emotional TikTok video cited by USA Today, Henney expressed Wally's importance to him and others for the joy he brings. He believes Wally's disappearance may have been orchestrated by individuals opposed to the idea of Wally being kept in captivity.
The seemingly mild-mannered alligator last made headlines after being turned away from a Phillies game, an incident that did little to sway the duo's spirit as Henney stayed outside the stadium to allow fans to meet and stroke the friendly reptile. Wally's ability to give affection has especially helped Henney, who has battled depression and cancer, as noted in images shared on his Facebook page with heartfelt thanks for the support he's received. "Wally is very important to me as well as to a lot of other people that he makes happy and puts joy in their hearts," Henney told Daily Mail.
Wally's story began in a much darker place, as he was one of the many gators removed from a congested lagoon in Florida back in 2015. Henney, with three decades of experience with alligators under his belt, chose to adopt Wally rather than let him face euthanasia. The surprising lack of aggression from Wally set him apart from other alligators. "He's just loveable. He sleeps with me, steals my pillows, steals my blankets. He's just awesome," Henney told Daily Mail. With a search party organized and no stone left unturned, the hope remains alive to find Wally—not as a lost pet but rather as a missing member of the small community he's impacted. Henney insists there's a reward for Wally's return, no questions asked, reflecting an owner's deep bond with an unconventional but evidently beloved emotional support animal.
