How Pine Drive Dairy Prioritizes Cow Comfort and Holistic Health

Nestled just west of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Pine Drive Dairy is a thriving operation managed by Eli Ford and a dedicated team of eight. With around 600 milking Holsteins, a few pet Jerseys, and 50 Angus beef cattle, the farm is a testament to modern dairy practices rooted in tradition, care, and innovation.

A Commitment to Cow Comfort and Cleanliness

At Pine Drive Dairy, cow comfort isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a foundational principle. From well-bedded stalls to carefully ventilated barns, every detail is designed to support the health and productivity of the herd. Cleanliness is paramount, especially in the milking parlor and milk house, where hygiene directly impacts milk quality.

“We take a lot of pride in keeping things clean,” says Ford. “Healthy cows are productive cows, and that starts with their environment.”

Focused Care for Fresh Cows

Fresh cows—those that have recently calved—receive special attention at Pine Drive Dairy. The team monitors them closely every morning and evening, recognizing this period as the most vulnerable for health issues. Employees are trained to spot early signs of illness, ensuring timely intervention and minimizing stress for the animals.

Transitioning to Holistic Herd Health with AHV

In an effort to reduce antibiotic use and embrace a more holistic approach, Pine Drive Dairy began working with AHV (Animal Health Vision) products several years ago. The results have been promising.

“One, it’s great because we don’t have to withhold any milk,” Ford explains. “Two, a lot of times it works better. And three, it might be healthier for the cow.”

Among the most-used AHV products are:

• AHV Metri and AHV Aspi: Used daily for at-risk cows and heifers, especially post-calving.
• AHV Quick and AHV Extra: Effective in managing udder issues.
• AHV Booster Pills and AHV Milk Start: Support cows dealing with metabolic issues.

Ford emphasizes that while they haven’t measured direct production gains, the health improvements are clear—and in his view, health always precedes production.

A Balanced Approach to Antibiotics

While Ford supports the use of antibiotics when necessary, he acknowledges that some treatments can be excessive. “We have great drugs that might be overkill for a lot of things,” he says. “They can wipe out a cow’s gut biome and mess her up for a while.”

By integrating AHV products into their routine, Pine Drive Dairy has found a safer, less invasive way to care for their animals—one that benefits both cows and handlers.

Transparency and Community Sharing

Ford’s approach to herd management is grounded in honesty and transparency. When neighbors ask about AHV products, he shares what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what they’re still exploring. It’s a philosophy that reflects the farm’s commitment to continuous improvement and community collaboration.