1.
Ideally, have several pigeons from the flying team,
and a composite fecal specimen from the flyers examined
by a competent professional.
The birds can be assesed for trichomonas, hexamita,
malarial parasites, external parasites, evidence of
respiratory infection, and fecal parasites. Cultures
can be started if indicated or desired.
2.
Treat for trichomoniasis(canker); coccidiosis; and
deworm before beginning training. It is a good idea
to alternate anti-trichomonas drugs as resistance
to one, especially Ronidazole, often develops.
I like Amprolium or Baycox for coccidiosis. Ivomec
is best for hairworms (Capallaria), and stomach wall
worms (Tetrameres, and Dispharynx). Roundworms often
resist Ivomec so use Pyrantel pamoate or Tramisol.
3.
Vaccinate for PMV and Paratyphoid. Do this about two
weeks before training starts. Do not vaccinate for
paratyphoid (Sal-Bac) if birds are sitting eggs or
rearing young as they will neglect their eggs or babies
for 12-24 hours after vaccination.
Sal-Bac vaccine contains a special adjuvant which
boosts the pigeons immune system, especially against
E.coli.
4.
In areas where Haemoproteus (pigeon malaria) is prevalent,
treat the flyers with an appropriate antimalarial
drug (chloroquine, quinacrine, or primaquine) for
28 days straight before the races start; then 1-2
days weekly until the races are over.
Note: I prefer quinacrine as it seems to have a tonic
effect on the birds as a beneficial side effect.
5.
Dust birds with permethrin dust (Insectrin GP) to
remove external parasites. Repeat every two weeks
until the races are over to prevent reinfestation
from other pigeons in the crates. Dusting works better
than sprays or dips as it penetrates to the skin;
this is important to kill pigeon flies.
6.
If respiratory infection (ornithose complex) is a
problem treat for 10 -30 days with a combination of
Tylan and a tetracycline drug.
In persistent cases it may be necessary to follow
with 2 days a week treatment to prevent recurrence.
Always evaluate the loft ventilation, as poor ventilation
is the main predisposing factor for respiratory disease.
Overcrowding is the next most common predisposing
factor.
Dr.
David E. Marx D.V.M.
