Florist sued after dog allegedly bites customer

GRETNA – A florist is being sued by one of its customers who claims a poodle seriously injured her when it bit her hand.

Melinda Doescher filed suit against L.J. Federico Inc., Federico’s Family Florist, Lawrence Federico III and Kenneth Thone in the 24th Judicial District Court on Jan. 3.

Doescher asserts that she was shopping at Federico’s Family Florist on Feb. 8, 2013 when the owner’s poodle dog bit her hand. The plaintiff alleges that the incident was partly due to the dog being allowed by the owners to be in the retail part of the store. Doescher claims the dog bite resulted in a severe injury to her hand.

The defendant is accused of negligence.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, physical pain and suffering and mental pain and anguish.

Doescher is represented by Julian R. Murray Jr. of Metairie-based Chehardy, Sherman, Ellis, Murray, Recile, Griffith, Stakelum & Hayes LLP.

The case has been assigned to Division G Judge Michael P. Mentz.

Case no. 734-295.