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 measures can be taken to better protect animals in zoos from the distress caused by fireworks?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Head of Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS)**
**Interviewer:** Ben, thank you for joining us. It’s incredibly sad to hear about the death of Roxie the panda cub. Can you tell us more about what happened?
**Ben Supple:** Yes, unfortunately, Roxie choked on her own vomit during the fireworks display on Guy Fawkes night. Our veterinary team believes that the loud noises and chaos from the fireworks likely triggered a reaction in her, especially following the recent loss of her mother, Ginger. It’s a tragic situation.
**Interviewer:** In light of this incident, you’ve called for stricter guidelines on fireworks. What changes are you advocating for?
**Ben Supple:** We’re asking both the Scottish and UK governments to implement stricter regulations regarding the sale and use of fireworks. Specifically, I believe that sales to the general public should be banned to prevent further distress to animals, not just in zoos but in our communities as well.
**Interviewer:** Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown acknowledged that fireworks stress animals and mentions that the decision rests primarily with the UK government. What’s your response to this?
**Ben Supple:** It is reassuring to hear that our concerns are being recognized at the governmental level. However, immediate action is needed. We cannot afford to wait for bureaucratic delays when animals’ well-being is at stake. Both governments need to prioritize this issue and act decisively.
**Interviewer:** Given the public’s varied opinions on fireworks, how do you think the community will react to these proposed changes?
**Ben Supple:** That’s an excellent question. While many people enjoy fireworks for celebrations, there is a growing awareness of the negative impact they can have on animals. I believe this sad incident may spark a debate: Should human celebrations come at the cost of animal welfare? I would love to hear the community’s thoughts on balancing enjoyment and responsibility.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ben, for your insights. It’s a crucial conversation to have as we look to find a harmonious way to celebrate without causing harm to our furry friends.
How do you feel about the use of fireworks during celebrations? Should there be stricter regulations to protect animals like Roxie, or do you believe that the traditional enjoyment of fireworks should take precedence?
