[PS3] "Cannot find character data"

I really hope someone can help me with this:

My PS3 crashed tonight and as I tried to load the game back up, i was presented with the error message "Cannot find character data" and I couldnt find anyway to get around this.

Some googling showed me all I had to do was delete my PS3 save files and rebuild my preferences and other settings. No biggie.

When i finally get logged in, i set everything up again and notice that i can no longer access the "Pets" menu and summon my company chocobo. I cannot access the menu. I cannot find/buy another chocobo whistle. I cannot find the hot button for the chocobo. Plainly put: I can no longer call or access my company chocobo.

Can anyone help me? Does anyone from SE Tech support actually read these forums?

Thanks for any suggestions.

Minions and Mounts were moved to the sepearate new Menus by last patch so they're not anymore listed under main Actions menu - just look up two new menu option called Minios Guide and Mounts Guide - from those you can call them or put the icons for them on your Crossbars.