Obviously they have to weigh the stone to know how much to charge. I guess that probably isn't too obvious if you have never bought large stones before. Anyway, they charge by the pound, different rocks cost different amounts. The first rock I chose weighed 200 lbs. It wasn't as sparkly but no one could really walk away with THAT stone. I knew this weighed less than half when she told me what she chose. She had said this weighed 78 lbs. A man could pick it up and take it but it would be a heavy load and the gate is pretty far from where it is.

This one is prettier - it has some shiny bits of rock in it - but the other was one no one could move on their own. But I am sure it will be safe at the dog park. In fact since it is not close to the gate, I am sure a lot of people won't even know it is there. Many people stand close to the gate and never venture around the dog park at all. They let their dogs run or play for a while and then leave. Which makes the spot even nicer. Any one who wants to go spend quiet time with "Phred" can do so and be almost unseen by others near the gate. I am really grateful to the Park Director for suggesting that spot because it is away from the gate and is quiet and peaceful. And I can remember many a time we set at the picnic table with Phred to talk and be out of the sun.