Unconventional Playoff Charm: Emotional Support Alligator Wally Denied Access to Phillies' Stadium, but Owner Remains Optimistic

A baseball enthusiast and his alligator companion, Wally, who provides emotional support, were denied entry into a Major League Baseball stadium to meet with Philadelphia Phillies players. However, they remain optimistic about the possibility of a future meetup. Joie Henney and Wally made an attempt to access the Philadelphia Phillies Citizens Bank Park on the day of their home game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Wally was invited by Henney to meet the Phillies players and their partners at the stadium before Wednesday's game against the Pirates. However, due to their late arrival, the players were already out warming up, which prevented Wally from spending time with them.

"We purchased tickets and since Wally had attended other baseball games, we presumed it would be permissible," Henney expressed. "We didn't inquire or verify, but the stadium only permits service animals like dogs and horses, not ESA animals.

"Wally serves as an emotional support animal, not a service animal. Some individuals criticized me without knowing the full context... However, when they informed us of the policy, there was no disagreement, no argument, and no conflict whatsoever. Everything went smoothly."

Henney stated, "We must adhere to their rules, as they have established the guidelines. It is not possible for me to impose my own set of rules at that place."

In accordance with the guidelines set by Citizens Bank Park, "We extend a warm welcome to certified service dogs or service dogs in training for guests with special needs. However, all other animals are strictly prohibited."

Henney remains hopeful that he and Wally will get another chance to meet the Phillies players before the MLB playoffs begin, despite the letdown on Wednesday. CNN has contacted the Phillies for their response.

Wally, Henney's emotional support animal, has become an internet sensation, gaining a significant social media following. This is mainly because of Wally's calm demeanor and eagerness to interact with everyone. With Henney guiding him by his harness, Wally can be observed spreading warmth through hugs at schools, police stations, and hospitals.

Henney informed CNN the year before that he had obtained Wally six years ago. Henney, a reptile rescuer with three decades of experience working with alligators, received a message from a friend employed in Florida.

"There was an overabundance of gators in that area," Henney said.

In Florida, so-called "nuisance alligators" must be either euthanized or transferred into captivity, he explained.

Wally, who was captured in a Florida lagoon, was brought to Pennsylvania by Henney's friend when he was just a year old and measured 20 inches in length.

According to Henney, Wally has exhibited a unique behavior unlike any alligator he has encountered in his 30 years of experience. He lacks signs of anger or aggression, which has puzzled everyone since the day he was captured.

Wally's lovable nature has led Henney to obtain a license for him as an emotional support animal. Throughout Henney's cancer treatments, the alligator has brought him comfort.

CNNs Zoe Sottile and Sara Smart contributed to this report.