In all models used to solve this problem, the link was conclusive. The original model predicted an difference of 40,000 in the somatic cell counts between the control and experimental groups.
Regression does seem to be the most effective analysis method available.
It allows the researcher to control for extraneous variables, and this is especially useful in large animal studies in which the sample size is usually small. Additionally, the model can be manipulated to specifically fit the data available, another useful property when analyzing zoological studies.