Court hears testimony in dog‑bite case; judge announces oral award and will enter written judgment

Natasha Harding testified under oath about a dog attack that occurred while she was addressing a low‑pressure tire in a daycare parking lot. Harding described multiple bites to her lower legs, follow‑up medical visits and scarring that required dermatologic treatment. She presented itemized out‑of‑pocket costs she said were billed in her name: an urgent‑care visit, three rounds of antibiotics and wound supplies, primary‑care fees, emergency‑room charges, dermatology treatments (including injection therapy to address scarring), lost wages and counseling.

The transcript records the judge's oral award as follows: the court read a figure for the documented economic costs and then awarded $15,000 for pain and suffering. The court told the plaintiff she would receive a signed judgment and explained options for collections and possible payment arrangements. The judge also suggested plaintiff contact legal‑aid organizations for help if she cannot afford counsel.

Notes on transcript numbers: The judge's oral announcement of the subtotal for documented costs appears in the transcript as the string "$2,26.72" (the record contains transcription artifacts). The court said it would enter a written order; parties should refer to that filed order for the exact numeric judgment.

Why it matters: The court awarded both economic and noneconomic damages after hearing testimony and bills; the written judgment will provide the precise totals and enable post‑judgment collection or settlement discussions.

What happens next: The court will issue a written judgment setting out the specific figures and the clerk will distribute it to the parties.