The hearts of animal lovers everywhere are sinking as Wally, the internet-famous emotional support alligator, who became a viral sensation last year, has vanished without a trace. Wally’s owner, Joie Henney, reported him missing after their vacation in Brunswick, Georgia on April 21st.
While alligators are not uncommon sights in the Sunshine State, Wally hails from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he is a beloved and registered emotional support animal. Known for his gentle demeanor and love of belly rubs, Wally’s disappearance has sparked a nationwide search.
Where Could Wally Be?
Rumors swirl about Wally’s whereabouts. Some speculate he may have been spooked and wandered off into the nearby marshlands. Others, including Henney himself, fear Wally may have been stolen. Due to permitting issues, Henney initially hesitated to report Wally missing, but his primary concern is his gator’s safety.
A Call to Action
The search for Wally is gaining momentum. Henney, along with local authorities and animal welfare organizations, are scouring the Brunswick area. Social media has become a powerful tool, with Wally’s story and picture spreading rapidly.
i want to thank everyone for their support and their concern. 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.
Joie Henney on Facebook
If You Have Information
If you have any information regarding Wally’s whereabouts, please contact the Brunswick County Animal Control department immediately. Henney is offering a reward for Wally’s safe return, no questions asked.
According to Wally’s Facebook page, it has been alleged Wally “was stolen by some jerk who likes to drop alligators off into someone’s yard to terrorize them.” Officers from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources had been notified by a homeowner about a gator in their yard, and unaware that it was Wally, trapped him and dropped him in a swamp along with other gators.
the swamp is very large and the trapper said the chances of them finding wally is slim to none.
Joie
This unusual case highlights the growing trend of emotional support animals and the unique challenges they present. While Wally’s story may be heartwarming, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and proper permitting when traveling with exotic animals.
Wally claimed his fame as the only emotional support alligator and had been a finalist in America’s Favorite Pet competition. Joie had adopted Wally from a gator rescue in Florida after losing three family members and four close friends. His doctor wanted to put him on antidepressants, but Wally just did things no one else has ever seen a gator able to do.
Alligators can not be safely returned to the wild and especially Wally, who had bonded with Joie. Photos of the gator lying on his shoulder and following Joie around like a puppy, has amazed everyone, including alligator rescues and zoos alike.
Here’s hoping for Wally’s safe return. We’ll continue to follow this story and bring you updates as they become available.
Read previous coverage of Wally here.
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