In the previous articles we examined the intangible problem with possible navigational disorder, now we have to examine the physical or constitutional problems that may be caused by our methods of husbandry. Medical treatment warrants an entire article on its own, so at this point I shall deal firstly with supplementary vitamin additions to our management.
Vitamins are an essential part of life for any creature, but only if administered in balanced form.
Some may be toxic if taken in excess, although not causing death, they contribute to loss of physical or mental condition. In an ideal world the best individuals would be those with a perfect physiology, extracting all nutrients from a sound basic diet and utilising this supply within its metabolism for maximum efficiency. Vitamins must be supplemented if healthy nerves, tissue, muscles etc. are to be maintained, however it is not just a problem of simple addition. Many of the companies are only too pleased to assist the fancier with information and problem solving. The hen pigeon requires calcium for egg production and also be converted within the body for feeding young.