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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What led to the tragic death of Roxie, and how has this incident influenced your views on fireworks regulations?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Head of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Ben. It’s a tragic loss to hear about Roxie’s death. Can you share more about what happened on Guy Fawkes night?
**Ben Supple:** Absolutely. On the night of the 5th of November, Roxie choked on her own vomit, which our vets believe was likely triggered by the stress from the fireworks. She had recently lost her mother, Ginger, and although she was responding positively to care, the loud explosions that night were too much for her.
**Interviewer:** You’re calling for tighter restrictions on fireworks. Why do you believe this is necessary?
**Ben Supple:** Fireworks can cause immense fear and stress not just for pets and livestock, but even for animals in zoos. This incident highlights the need for urgent action to protect these vulnerable creatures. A ban on public sales and stricter regulations could significantly reduce such tragedies.
**Interviewer:** There seems to be a debate on the balance between tradition and animal welfare. How do you respond to those who enjoy fireworks as part of cultural celebrations?
**Ben Supple:** It’s a valid point, and we certainly understand the enjoyment fireworks bring to many. However, I believe we must prioritize the welfare of animals in these discussions. There are alternative ways to celebrate that could replace the use of fireworks and still keep traditions alive without harming animals.
**Interviewer:** Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown has mentioned this is an issue that needs to be addressed at a government level. What can the public do to support your cause?
**Ben Supple:** Everyone can play a role in advocating for change. By voicing concerns to their local representatives and participating in discussions around this issue, the public can help drive the conversation towards better regulations. Collectively, we can push for a safer environment for all animals.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ben. To our readers, what are your thoughts on the use of fireworks during celebrations? Should animal welfare take precedence over tradition? Join the debate!
