Use Right Birds for Dove Release

Use right birds for dove releases
May 4, 2008

Usually, ''Dear Abby's'' advice is appropriate. However, she should have done more homework before writing on April 28 about the ''certain death'' awaiting '' wedding doves.''I have been releasing doves at weddings and funerals in the Lehigh Valley for some time. Like other responsible businesspeople in this field, I release pure white homing pigeons. These strong and highly intelligent birds do indeed return home, often flying at speeds approaching 50 mph. They take to wing with exuberant joy and fly back to their loft out of love of home. It's a rare event when they don't beat me home. Some people purchase white doves at pet stores and release them; these captive doves will not survive. This is why it is important to make sure a responsible dove handler is used. Doves are frequently released at weddings, but more so at funerals. Those who have witnessed the peace and comfort a release can bring to someone who is grieving know just what a dove release represents. Readers can learn more at the Web site of the American Racing Pigeon Union: http://www.pigeon.org Heather Barbosa

Published in “The Morning Call”