Emotional support animals are becoming more commonplace.
They tend to be pets such as cats and dogs but they can also be unlikely animals such as squirrels (although more unusual animals don’t always go down well).
But one man has revealed he finds comfort in his pet alligator.
Joie Henney, from Pennsylvania, U.S, has a five-foot, 60lb federally-licensed emotional support alligator.
And it’s not the only reptile Joie lives with.
The 65-year-old’s house boasts a variety of reptiles, ranging from bearded dragons to ball pythons.
The one that steals the show, however, is four-year-old Wally, who has a special place in Joie’s heart.
While most of us might be scared to go near an alligator, Joie insists the animal is super friendly and loves giving hugs and kisses.
Little Wally is now four and was rescued from outside Orlando when he was 14 months old.
Joie says Wally could one day be 16 foot long.
Wally’s diet includes chicken wings and he shares an indoor plastic pond with a smaller rescue alligator named Scrappy.
Wally has never bitten anyone and is even afraid of cats, according to Henney.
Joie explained: ‘He’s far from a typical alligator, he loves cuddling and he loves giving kisses’.
As well as having full run of the house, Wally is regularly taken out for walks to parks, malls and even restaurants.
Joie, who refused to take medication when going through depression, found great relief in interacting with Wally the alligator.
How can you travel with an emotional support animal?
While you’re free to keep whatever animal you can purchase, rescue or get with a special licence, to travel with an emoational support there are rules you have to follow.
According to the Emotional Support Animal Registry UK, you must have a prescriptive letter from a qualified doctor stating your need to have an animal with you when you travel, shop and also for accommodation.
Some of the conditions that would lead to a diagnosis of a need for support animals include anxiety (specific or generalised), depression or other mood disorders, phobias (including social phobia and fear of flying), panic disorder, and PTSD.
With a solid fan-base, Joie works with volunteers daily to show Wally in schools, birthday parties, and other events.
He says it’s just like having a dog.
Do you have an unconventional emotional support animal? Email metrolifestyleteam@metro.co.uk to tell us more and send us pictures.
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