Man Brings Emotional Support Alligator To Phillies Game, Here's What Happened Next...

It was an unexpected sight at the Citizens Bank Park: a Phillies fan, eager to catch the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, had a rather unusual companion by his side—a leashed alligator named WallyGator.

Social media lit up with pictures of the gator, proudly wearing a harness bearing his name, patiently waiting outside the stadium on Wednesday.

The unique reptile has even charmed followers on Instagram and TikTok.

However, the Phillies organization was clear about their rules.

Are you kidding me. A #Phillies fan tried to come into game tonight with what they said was a “service animal.” An Alligator! Yes an Alligator. Thing’s I’ve never seen. This is it. ⁦@SportsRadioWIP⁩ pic.twitter.com/H7A0FM0IYC

— Howard Eskin (@howardeskin) September 27, 2023

The team’s website states, “Guide dogs, service animals, or service animals in training are welcome. All other animals are prohibited.”

In a chat with CBS News last year, Henney opened up about his deep bond with Wally.

The story goes that Wally was found in a Disney World pond. Since Florida laws prevent moving alligators around in the wild, Henney decided to give the gator a new home.

Do you think there should be limits on the types of animals that are labeled "emotional support" animals?

Life threw some curveballs at Henney.

After facing personal losses, he battled intense depression.

While some emotional support animal claims aren’t backed up, WallyGator is actually a working emotional support alligator registered to a man in Pennsylvania.
https://t.co/gAeLbJEcqq

— WFAA (@wfaa) September 29, 2023

But in those tough times, Wally seemed to intuitively sense Henney’s emotional struggles and supposedly became more affectionate.

Recalling some touching moments, Henney told CBS News, “I’d lay on the couch, and I’d wake up and he’d be laying on my head. And I knew it was for a long period of time because I had his whole jaw print on my face.”

Wally began to accompany Henney everywhere, from doctor visits to quick stops at the drive-thru.

The presence of his alligator buddy made a world of difference. “I’ll get lonely, and he seems to sense that. He’ll come up and give me a hug,” Henney said. He added with a smile, “Wally makes me feel loved.”

Even though the pair faced a setback at the stadium entrance, Phillies fans had reason to celebrate—the team secured a 7-6 win against the Pirates.

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