At Veldhuis North Dairy in Ballico, California, managing a herd of 4,000 milking cows requires efficiency, consistency, and results. For Gerardo Villalobos and his team, the transition to AHV solutions marked a significant shift toward a more natural, stress-free approach to cow health—delivering measurable improvements in both animal welfare and production.

A Different Approach to Dry-Off

When first introduced to AHV’s dry-off protocol (StopLac), expectations were high. The process stood out immediately: a more natural and controlled transition, designed to reduce stress on the cow.
After running a structured on-farm trial supported by data and statistics, the results exceeded expectations. Cows experienced:

• Less stress during dry-off
• Improved comfort, with reduced udder pressure
• Better appetite and overall condition

Physically, the differences were clear. Instead of swollen, red udders caused by pressure and milk accumulation, cows maintained a healthier, pink udder condition. Behaviorally, they were calmer—no longer vocalizing from discomfort.

Measurable Improvements in Milk and Udder Health

The benefits extended beyond cow comfort. Key performance indicators improved significantly:

• Lower somatic cell counts (SCC): No spike during dry-off; in many cases, SCC decreased
• Increased milk production: +2 pounds per cow per day compared to traditional dry-off methods
• Improved milk quality: Reduced off-flavors observed

Importantly, these results were consistent across most cows and continue to be monitored long-term.

Rethinking UDDER Treatment

AHV’s approach managing udder issues also delivered a clear difference. Instead of traditional intramammary treatments, the protocol uses oral applications, including Quick and Aspi.

This approach offers several advantages:

• Fast response: Visible improvement within 24 hours
• Short treatment duration: Typically 1–3 days
• No milk or meat withdrawal period
• Reduced antibiotic dependence

Because the solution works by activating the cow’s natural response, treated cows can often return to the milking parlor the next day if symptoms resolve.

Reduced UDDER Cases in Fresh Cows

One of the most notable outcomes was the reduction in udder cases post-calving. Historically, fresh cows posed challenges, but with the AHV protocol including Metri:

• Udder health cases dropped significantly
• Transition cows returned to production without complications
• No damage to mammary tissue, unlike aggressive antibiotic treatments

By minimizing stress during dry-off and supporting cows naturally, the system appears to reduce key risk factors associated with udder health issues.

Operational and Practical Benefits

Beyond performance and health, the protocol simplifies daily operations:

• Easy administration: Oral tablets are safer and easier than intramammary tubes
• Reduced labor and handling risk
• More flexibility: No withdrawal periods allow for easier herd management decisions

In cases such as abortion or unexpected culling, cows can be processed without regulatory concerns related to residues—offering additional economic and logistical advantages.

A Holistic Shift in Dairy Management

For Gerardo Villalobos and the Veldhuis North team, the transition to AHV represents more than just a product change—it’s a shift toward natural herd management focused on cow comfort, efficiency, and long-term performance.

VELDHUIS NORTH DAIRY USES THE FOLLOWING AHV PRODUCTS: