We are hearing more and more about resistant forms of the various organisms we encounter with our pigeons. These are the main ones:

Trichomonas: Reports mount and my experience shows that trichomonas is showing resistance to the commonly used drugs. This has been experienced for some time and it was just a matter of time before we started seeing resistant forms here. The best line of defense now is to rotate the anti-trichomonas drugs that one uses.

Worms: The main thing here is the resistance of roundworms to Ivermectin. Ivermectin has be a great aid in controlling the more severe worms such as Capallaria (hairworms), and Stomach wall worms (Tetrameres and Dispharynx); but with increasing incidence, it fails to eliminate the common roundworm. The recommendation here is to use the old standby-Tramisol or the newer wormer-Pyrantel pamoate for roundworms but continue to use Ivermectin for the others.

Bacteria: In pigeons as in humans and other species, the incidence of bacteria which are resistant to the more common antibiotics is increasing rapidly. Years ago the tetracycline drugs did a great job of controlling salmonella. Now it is the uncommon salmonella that is sensitive to the tetracyclines.

Bacteria become resistant to antibiotics most easily when they are repeatedly exposed to a particular one. What makes it easier for this to happen is to use too weak a dose for too short a time.

Also, indiscriminate use of antibiotics exposes the bacteria to them at an incidence that encourages resistance to occurr. Do not use antibiotics indiscriminately; remember that antibiotics are a treatment, not a preventive--they have no preventive effect except in an epidemic situation. Use proper dose for proper time when using antibiotics as a treatment.

Coccidia: This parasite, too, becomes resistant to various treatments. Rarely is sulmet or the other sulfas adequate in controlling coccidiosis anymore. The stalwart drug, Amprolium is now failing in increasing numbers or cases. We are relying more and more on Baycox to effectively eliminate coccidia, although amprolium is still very effective in the majority of cases.

Pigeon Fanciers: Yes, there are resistant forms here too. Too many are resistant to change, especially to changes which make pigeon racing easier and more convenient for the fanciers.

There is also resistance to systems of racing and protocols which allow us to race without the handicap of moult. Remember that most changes are for the good and despite resistance, are eventually accepted for the good of the sport.

There are also measures that the organizations must take to ensure the survival of our beloved hobby/sport. Don't be negative to these changes, think them through, and try to accept them as needed changes. Give our representatives a fair shake. They are volunteers, for the most part, and are trying their best to keep our sport viable, modern, and enjoyable.

Dr. David E. Marx D.V.M.