In a fairness hearing set for this month, people whose dogs were injured as a result of eating food products recalled by Diamond Pet Foods (Meta, Mo.) may receive compensation through a $3.1 million legal settlement against the company.

The settlement applies to people who purchased recalled Diamond Brand and Country Value Brand Pet Food products in 2005, who did not return the foods for a refund and who live in one of 23 states: Alabama, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Diamond Pet Foods recalled the dog foods in December 2005 after they were found to contain toxins that injured dogs. The lawsuit alleged that many consumers have not received refunds for the recalled food.

Consumers may receive compensation if they can show that the recalled food they purchased was not returned for a refund. Consumers also may receive compensation for any veterinary expenses associated with testing and treating dogs that ate the contaminated pet food.

Consumers who believe they are entitled to receive compensation must submit a valid claim by April 15. For more information, including a copy of the complete notice and a claim form, visit www.recalledpetfoodsettlement.com. [March 2008 PET AGE]