Hölzer & Jost in Sintal-Oberzell has moved from a riding arena for its 120 dairy cows. German Agriculture Minister Hesse Prisca Hinz visited the company in Main-Kinzig-Kreis on Wednesday.
“In the family business of Heiko Hölzer and Kristin Jost, you can see how important it is for animals, so that cows can move freely, as well as determine their own place. And it shows: exit from leash is possible! We support this in Hesse through consultation and financial support, ”said Hinz.
Farms are advised to refurbish. To do this, a guide to action has been created in the form of a brochure that provides valuable information. It presents various planning examples for breaking the leash.
“The brochure is unique throughout the country and contains clear and practical descriptions of conversion concepts. In addition, we support agriculture with appropriate support programs. To move to the arenas, we increased financing rates, ”added Hinz.
Through the Agricultural Investment Promotion Program (AFP), the state government provides specific support for investment projects that transform existing leases.
Subsidy rates will increase this year from 20 to 30% for repairs and from 30 to 40% for new buildings. The funding takes into account the fact that the Animal Welfare Ordinance is being revised at the federal level.
The year-round keeping of cattle on a leash cannot be considered as a component of animal welfare. It does not allow the movement of animals, social contacts or comfortable behavior.
The Brochure Brochure was developed by the Animal Welfare Roundtable and the Hessen eV (ALB) Working Group on Rationalization, Agricultural Engineering and Agricultural Construction.
