Panda cub Roxie choked on her own vomit at the zoo on the so-called Guy Fawkes night on 5 November. The annual celebration marks the failed attempt by a gang led by Fawkes to kill King James in 1605.
– Roxie had recently lost her mum Ginger, but responded well to specialist help from our experts and was fed on her own. It’s very sad, but she choked on her own vomit on Guy Fawkes night, and our vets believe this was probably a reaction to the fireworks, says deputy chairman Ben Supple of the animal welfare organization Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), which owns the zoo .
Supple is calling on the Scottish Government and UK central government to tighten guidelines on the use of fireworks, and he is advocating a ban on sales to the general public.
– Fireworks can cause fear and stress for pets, livestock and animals in zoos, so it is vital that the British and Scottish governments tighten the restrictions on use and sale, he says.
Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown says that fireworks are very stressful for animals and that the death is sad. But it is the government in London that has the opportunity to do something about it, she says and adds that she has asked for a meeting to discuss the matter.
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What measures can individuals take to minimize the impact of fireworks on local wildlife during celebrations?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Chairman of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Ben. While it’s tragic to hear about Roxie’s passing, can you explain more about how fireworks might have contributed to her choking incident?
**Ben Supple:** Absolutely. Fireworks produce loud noises and bright lights that can create significant stress for animals, both in zoos and in domestic settings. Our experts believe that Roxie’s distress due to the fireworks on Guy Fawkes night might have exacerbated her condition, which led to her unfortunate choking incident.
**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned the need for the Scottish and UK governments to tighten regulations on fireworks. What specific changes are you advocating for?
**Ben Supple:** We are calling for stricter guidelines on the use and sale of fireworks to the public. This includes potential bans on their sale and the implementation of designated zones and times for fireworks displays, reducing the shock to animals during these celebrations.
**Interviewer:** Some might argue that fireworks are a longstanding tradition and that individuals should be free to celebrate as they wish. How do you respond to that viewpoint?
**Ben Supple:** While we certainly respect the tradition, we must also consider the well-being of all creatures. The harm caused to animals cannot be overlooked in light of our enjoyment; a balance must be struck. If we can provide a safer environment for our wildlife and pets while still enjoying celebrations, then that should be our priority.
**Interviewer:** Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown acknowledged the issue and pointed towards the London government for action. What do you hope will happen next?
**Ben Supple:** I’m hopeful there will be an open dialogue that leads to definitive action. It’s crucial that governments at all levels work together to develop comprehensive regulations that prioritize animal welfare during these cultural events.
**Interviewer:** given the tragic nature of this incident, what message do you hope readers take away regarding fireworks and their effects on animals?
**Ben Supple:** I hope readers understand that fireworks can lead to real consequences, like stress and harm to animals. We have a responsibility to consider the impact of our celebrations on those who cannot speak for themselves.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ben. It certainly raises important questions. What do you think, readers? Should fireworks be more strictly regulated to protect animals, or should the tradition of fireworks continue unimpeded? Let us know your thoughts!
