Cows with or without horns? Swiss to vote on Sunday

November 23, 2018 10:05

Switzerland votes this Sunday on an issue of national importance that has divided the Alpine country -- whether to subsidise farmers who let their cows' and goats' horns grow naturally.

The referendum on preserving the "dignity of livestock" was initiated by farmer Armin Capaul, 66, a self-described rebel. He says that "listening" to his cows inspired his nine-year campaign for cash to fund the extra grazing space horned animals need and which he hopes will reduce dehorning.

Three-quarters of Swiss cows, who are a national symbol and tourist attraction, are dehorned or genetically hornless.

Capaul, who says horns help cows communicate and regulate their body temperature, wants a 190 Swiss franc (Rs 13,400) annual subsidy per horned animal for farmers.

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