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 head 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 their 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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How can public awareness campaigns effectively convey the effects of fireworks on wildlife and domestic pets?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Head of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Ben. The recent loss of panda cub Roxie is heartbreaking, and it’s been linked to the disturbances caused by fireworks. Can you elaborate on how Roxie’s environment was affected on Guy Fawkes night?
**Ben Supple:** Absolutely. Roxie had just lost her mother, Ginger, and was already under significant stress. On the night of Guy Fawkes, the loud noises from fireworks likely contributed to her panic, which unfortunately led to her choking on her own vomit. Our team did everything possible to support her, but the stress from the fireworks was overwhelming.
**Interviewer:** You’ve called for stricter guidelines on fireworks usage. What specific changes are you hoping to see from the Scottish and UK governments?
**Ben Supple:** We need a comprehensive review of how fireworks are regulated. I’m advocating for a ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public to avoid these stressful situations for pets, livestock, and zoo animals. It’s crucial that we prioritize animal welfare.
**Interviewer:** Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown mentioned that the London government holds the power to make significant changes. Do you think that a unified approach between both governments is necessary to tackle this issue effectively?
**Ben Supple:** Definitely. Fireworks don’t recognize borders, and a coordinated response from both the Scottish and UK governments is essential. If we want to protect animals from the negative impact of fireworks, we need consistent regulations in place.
**Interviewer:** Do you think the general public understands the impact of fireworks on animals? How can we raise more awareness about this issue?
**Ben Supple:** I believe there’s a growing awareness, but there’s still a long way to go. Education campaigns that highlight the effects of fireworks on both domestic pets and wildlife can help foster empathy and understanding. Community engagement and advocacy can also play a crucial role in changing behaviors and attitudes.
**Interviewer:** Considering the public’s varying views on fireworks, how do you think this situation will play out in terms of public debate?
**Ben Supple:** I anticipate a lively discussion. Many people enjoy fireworks, but they may not fully grasp the impact on animals. This is an opportunity for a broader conversation about balancing tradition with compassion for living beings. Engaging the public in this debate could lead to significant changes in how we celebrate such events without distressing our animals.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ben, for your insights and for highlighting this important issue.
**Ben Supple:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we keep this conversation going.
**Question for readers:** What are your thoughts on the impact of fireworks on animals? Should there be a ban on fireworks sales to the public, or do you believe there are ways to enjoy displays while ensuring animal welfare? Share your views below!
