LAWSUIT CLAIMS PURINA BENEFUL FOOD IS KILLING DOGS

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East County News Service

February 27, 2015 (San Diego’s East County) – A class action lawsuit claims that dry kilbble dog foods  sold under the Purina Beneful brand have killed and caused serious illness to thousands of dogs.  More than 3,000 online complaints have been filed with the federal government over the products.

The suit contends that the products cause internal bleeding, liver failure, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, weight loss, seizures, bloat and kidney failure.  If you dog is ill,  you should seek immediate veterinary treatment.  To find out if you qualify to join class action lawsuit against Nestlé Purina , you can call this toll free number for more information: 1-877-667-4265.

Brands named, all made by Nestle Purina Petcare Company, include Purina Beneful Health Weight,Purina Beneful Original; Purina Beneful Incredibites, Purina Beneful Healthy Growth for Puppies", Purina Beneful Healthy Smile, Purina Beneful Health Fiesta, Purina Purina Beneful Healthy Radiance, and ‘Purina Beneful Playful Life.

Packaging for many of the products claim they are made with “wholesome ingredients” to keep pets “healthy and happy.”

Plaintiff Frank Lucido, claims that after purchasing a bag of Beneful for the first time in late December, all three of his dogs began falling ill with stomach and liver symptoms and one dog died.  He claims the damage to his dogs and others are due to toxic substances in the food.

WCPO reported that attorney James Young said his office has received hundreds of complaints and that nationally, thousands of complaints have been submitted regarding very serious side effects and deaths tied to Beneful food.

The lawsuit lists several dangerous ingredients including mycotoxins, chemical byproducts that are toxic and can occur when fungi develops on grain or corn in dog foods.  The suit also lists the automotive antifreeze component propylene glycol as a primary ingredient in Beneful’s dog food. Propylene glycol, a substance the suit says is toxic to cats and dogs, may be used to retain product moisture, according to the suit.

10 News reports that in Scandanavia last year, Fireball Whiskey was recalled due to claims of dangerous levels of propylene glycol, though the drinks remained for sale in the U.S. Propylene glycol is a legally allowed ingredient and is found in various food products.

Daily Beast has reported that Nestle Purina has called the suit “without merit” and that the company plans to mount a vigorous defense.  A spokesman stated, “Beneful is a high-quality, nutritious food enjoyed by millions of dogs each year, and there are no product quality issues with Beneful."

The lawsuit seeks actual, statutory and punitive damages for all class action claims and further asks that the company forfeit profits from the products’ sales.

 


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