UPDATE: Pet Food Recall Compensation

Were your cats and dogs affected by the massive petfood recall last year? Many got sick or even died as a result of eating contaminated food. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) never identified how many pets were affected, but it received more than 17,000 complaints. Petfood makers have already paid $8 million in compensation to pet owners. There’ve been hundreds of lawsuits and nearly 6,000 claims filed in a class-action settlement. Menu Foods, other petfood makers and retailers in May agreed to set up a $24 million cash fund (in addition to the $8 already paid) to compensate affected pet owners. A federal judge in New Jersey gave the settlement preliminary approval in May. A hearing for the expected final approval is scheduled for October. The filing period for claims began May 30, 2008 and will run until November 24, 2008. Once a claim is filed, it will be reviewed by an independent claims administrator. Those approved should get 100% cash payment for all documented expenses deemed reasonable, including veterinary bills and burial costs. They may receive up to $900 for undocumented expenses. Under the terms of the settlement, most claims are likely to be paid next year. A website has been set up at www.petfoodsettlement.com or the claims administrator can be reached at 1-800-392-7785.