In our sport, we appropriately discuss ideas on how to maintain our birds’ health. However, we rarely talk about the pigeon fancier’s health.
There are a few significant risks to the pigeon fancier when exposed to our birds over the long-term.
- Allergies (common, but not very serious)
- Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (uncommon, but serious)
- Pulmonary fibrosis (uncommon, but very serious)
- Infections (very uncommon, can be serious)
Fundamentally, how we treat our birds is similar to how we should treat ourselves. One of the primary, “must do” behaviors is to maintain a well ventilated loft.
- While cleaning your loft, wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth.
- Minimize accumulation of heavy amounts of dust in the loft.
- Prevent opportunities for rodents to nest. Rodent droppings may harbor germs that can directly infect humans.
- Always think “ventilation, ventilation, ventilation”.
If you develop a chronic cough or shortness of breath with exertion, please consider seeing your primary care physician. You may need a referral to a pulmonary specialist for specific testing.
I have known a number of fellow fanciers who decline to see a physician out of fear of being advised to get rid of their birds. As a physician and life-long fancier, I don’t think this sort of action is typically necessary. Rather, decreasing the amount of one’s stock and/or modifying the loft to maximize ventilation, cleanliness, and room dimensions per bird, etc. can often be a way to reduce your respiratory symptoms.Protect yourself like you protect your birds.