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 the public take to support tighter regulations on fireworks following the tragic loss of Roxie?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Chairman of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Ben. The tragic loss of Roxie is heartbreaking, especially considering her recent challenges. Can you explain how the fireworks may have contributed to this incident?
**Ben Supple:** Certainly. On Guy Fawkes night, the loud noises and bright lights from fireworks can create significant stress and fear in animals. In Roxie’s case, we believe her choking may have been a reaction to the distress caused by the fireworks, especially since she had recently lost her mother, which already left her vulnerable.
**Interviewer:** It’s a deeply troubling situation. You mentioned calling for tighter regulations on fireworks. What specific changes are you advocating for?
**Ben Supple:** We’re asking both the Scottish and UK governments to implement stricter guidelines on the use and sale of fireworks, potentially even banning sales to the general public. The stress that fireworks cause is not just limited to pets; it affects livestock and zoo animals as well.
**Interviewer:** Siobhian Brown has acknowledged the issue but emphasizes that the power to enact change lies with the London government. What challenges does this present for your advocacy?
**Ben Supple:** It’s frustrating because this is a pressing issue that affects many animals across the UK. While we have support at the local level, we need a united front from both the Scottish and UK governments to effectively address the problem.
**Interviewer:** It’s clear this is a significant concern. Do you think public opinion is on your side regarding fireworks regulations?
**Ben Supple:** I hope so. Many people are unaware of the adverse effects fireworks have on animals. We need to raise awareness and engage the public in a conversation about this.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of public opinion, how do you believe your community will react to the loss of Roxie and the call for change? Should there be a broader discussion about how celebrations can impact wildlife and pets?
**Ben Supple:** Absolutely. Roxie’s story invites us to reflect on how our traditions can unintentionally harm animals. I hope the community will join us in advocating for changes that protect all creatures from unnecessary stress and fear. It’s time we have a serious discussion about balancing celebration with compassion.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Ben. What do you think readers will take away from this story? Should we reconsider our celebration practices in light of such unfortunate events?
**Ben Supple:** I believe readers might feel compelled to think about the consequences of fireworks and consider alternatives for celebrations that are less harmful to animals. It’s an opportunity for dialogue and change.