WallyGator, the emotional support alligator, spotted cooling off in Philadelphia's Love Park

Saturday, August 27, 2022
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- WallyGator, an emotional support alligator in the running to be named America's Favorite Pet, made a stop by Philadelphia's Love Park this week.

WallyGator has become a TikTok sensation and is surely not your typical alligator. He is an emotional support alligator from a local reptile rescue.

Wally's handler, Joie Henney, is currently undergoing radiation for prostate cancer, and Wally is his emotional support animal.

"He's a big supporter of people needing smiles," Henney said. "He works with a lot of special needs adults and children. He puts thousands of smiles on people's faces almost every day. He comforts people when they're sad."

He doesn't know why but the 7-year-old gator has never attacked or shown aggression towards anything.

Yes, they walk him on a leash and his favorite treat is cheese puffs.

If Wally looks familiar, he was the inspiration for the design of 'Alligator Loki' on Disney+.

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of this ABC station.
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