AHV: Helping Pedigree Beef Breeds Maximise Returns

For suckler farmers who are investing heavily in top genetics, the challenge isn’t just buying those bloodlines; it’s making sure they deliver. While most people know AHV for their work with dairy herds, more and more pedigree beef farmers are seeing the benefits of the AHV Transition and Fertility Programme.

The Unique Challenges of Pedigree Calving

Pedigree beef breeds have various difficult trade-offs to navigate. Breeding for shape and muscle can make calvings more difficult. Bigger calves mean more stress for cows, and if cows don’t clean out properly after calving, getting cows back in calf becomes a stumbling block.

Flushing and Fertility

More and more pedigree breeders are turning to flushing programmes to get the most out of their best cows. The goal is simple: improve egg quality and increase embryo numbers. Both are maximised if the cow’s energy and uterine health are in good order.

Dr. Jan van Dijk, AHV Veterinarian, emphasises the critical role of supporting the energy status of cows before breeding, e.g. to enhance the viability and quality of oocytes (eggs). A flushing effect boosts the chances of superovulation with multiple viable eggs.

“Administering AHV Booster tablets pre-breeding improves ration utilisation, thereby replenishing body reserves and improving reproductive function. An enhanced energy status supports embryo transfer programs.Having donor cows with an enhanced energy and nutrient status significantly increases the yield and quality of eggs, improving the chances of a successful harvesting of embryos. Furthermore,  recipient cows may also benefit from Booster support, resulting in higher pregnancy rates in these animals,” explains Dr. van Dijk.

Making sure the cow starts cycling again after calving

Apart from flushing effects, AHV’s Transition and Fertility Programme also focuses on ensuring cows clean out any bacterial infections acquired during the calving process. This way, cows will start cycling again sooner after calving and are more likely to hold to insemination or embryo transfer sooner. A tight block calving pattern can be achieved. 

The outcome: better conception rates, improved calving recovery, shorter calving intervals, and ultimately stronger returns from top-level genetics.

A Success Story from Tateetra & Rathmore Farms

John Kingham, a commercial suckler farmer at Tateetra & Rathmore Farms, has seen firsthand the transformative impact of AHV solutions. Managing a herd of 500 suckler cows calving from autumn through spring, John understands the importance of getting cows back in calf quickly to meet production targets.

“Since using the AHV Transition and Fertility Programme- specifically Metri, StartLac Paste, Aspi, and Booster – we’ve noticed significant improvements. We’re seeing far fewer retained cleanings, cows coming into heat much quicker after calving, and fewer complications both during and after calving. It’s been a real game-changer for us,” shares John.

Protecting Your Investment in Genetics

John’s story is a reminder of the bigger picture: genetics alone do not guarantee results. For pedigree suckler farmers, the true return comes when fertility, calving ease, and recovery all line up.

That’s where AHV can make the difference – helping beef breeders:

• Protect their investment in elite genetics
• Improve fertility outcomes and conception rates
• Shorten calving intervals and reduce semen costs
• Produce healthier, higher-value calves

For pedigree beef breeders seeking to improve fertility and deliver greater returns from their top genetics, AHV’s proven solutions offer a powerful ally in the pursuit of success.