good post vinnie, we at Timbarra use only what we think helps benefit the birds,
calcuim in the water 1-2 a week breeding season and racing season only. plain water mostly
good sound mix , versa laga energy plus only no other mixes used.
peanuts and budgie seed used as a tit bit
Dog food flakes used to help maintain good vitamin and mineral balance. twice a week or when we want to give it.
black and pink minerals on dry dys only.
thats it. medication is not given , we have a strong sound family of birds that do not get ill, so stress for us is non starter, no worrying in that field.
we havestrong birds and i think your father would have been the same with respect to building natural imunity within the colony. the best school is the old school as to never go against nature, and never treat blind or give to many sinthetic products.. wether from supermarket or pigeon shop.