This week we had the joy of spending Sunday with our PAWS friend Happy Gal—and she truly lived up to her name. From the moment she met my son, the two of them bonded like old friends. They ran side by side, explored every corner of the park, practiced a few tricks, and even took time to watch the ducks glide across the water.

We chose the Tonaquint Nature Center for our adventure, a peaceful little oasis tucked right into St. George. The trails were glowing with winter sunshine, and it felt like one of those perfectly simple Southern Utah days where nothing needs to be rushed.

One of the most touching stops was the Pet Rainbow Bridge, a tribute to all the beloved animals who have passed. It was a sweet reminder of how deeply pets become part of our families—and how much love dogs like Happy Gal still have waiting to give.

Days like this are why we volunteer. Seeing a shelter dog relax, play, and just be a dog outside the kennel is something special. Happy Gal soaked up every moment, and we were lucky to share it with her.

— Merievy Oborn
Southern Utah Local

Its hard to say who was running who out on the Rainbow Bridge!

No longer by my side, forever in my heart.
We will meet at the Rainbow Bridge, and we will never be apart.
I love how St. George created this space for remembering our pets.

A quiet place to remember the ones who walked beside us.

❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🩷 🌈💖❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🩷🌈

Happy Gal showing off her best commands! This little teepee at the Tonaquint Nature Center has seen a lot of childhood adventures… and now a few puppy ones too.

PAWS crew in formation and proof that even on a walk, Happy Gal knows where the camera is.

Range of emotions: happy, happier, happiest.

We spotted swans, mallards, American coots, and our favorite—the wood duck! Fun fact: ducks do best with treats like romaine lettuce or other garden greens, especially in winter.

Happy Gal, model of calm wilderness etiquette. Meanwhile, the junior primate conducted important research on the aerodynamic limits of waterfowl.

Disney princess vibes, but with Toms and sunglasses.

If this photo had sound, it would be all laughter and paws.

A little command practice in Tonaquint’s organic amphitheater, where the seats are stone and the applause is birds. Happy Gal understood the assignment.

If you’re thinking about welcoming a dog into your life, there are so many wonderful companions at PAWS ready for their own sunny Sundays.

By Merievy Oborn
Proud PAWS volunteer and Southern Utah Local