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 are the potential impacts of fireworks on zoo animals and wildlife, as highlighted by the tragic incident involving panda cub Roxie?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Head of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us, Ben. The recent tragic loss of panda cub Roxie has understandably raised concerns. Can you tell us more about what happened?
**Ben Supple**: Thank you for having me. On Guy Fawkes night, Roxie choked on her own vomit. Our veterinary team believes that this tragic incident was likely triggered by the stresses caused by the fireworks. Roxie had recently lost her mother, Ginger, and while she was responding well to care, the added stress from the loud noises was too much for her.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned that the fireworks caused her stress. What specific actions are you advocating for in response to this incident?
**Ben Supple**: We are calling for tighter guidelines on the use of fireworks in the UK and Scotland. I firmly believe that there should be a ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public. Fireworks not only create fear for zoo animals like Roxie but also for pets and livestock in our communities.
**Interviewer**: It seems this incident has sparked a broader discussion about the impact of fireworks on animals. What has the response from the government been like?
**Ben Supple**: Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown has acknowledged that fireworks are stressful for animals and expressed sorrow over Roxie’s death. She emphasized that the Westminster government has the authority to enact meaningful change, and she’s seeking a meeting to discuss potential regulations.
**Interviewer**: Given the public sentiment around fireworks during celebrations, do you believe that there is enough awareness about their impact on animals?
**Ben Supple**: There’s a significant gap in awareness that needs to be addressed. Many people enjoy fireworks without considering their effects on wildlife and pets. We need to engage the public in this discussion and find alternative ways to celebrate that do not harm animals.
**Interviewer**: This is a sensitive topic. How do you think the community can get involved in advocating for change regarding fireworks?
**Ben Supple**: I encourage individuals to voice their concerns to local representatives and participate in discussions about community safety and animal welfare. We can create a collective impact by raising awareness and supporting legislative changes.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for your insights today, Ben. As we reflect on Roxie’s tragic death, what final thoughts would you like to share with our readers?
**Ben Supple**: I hope Roxie’s story encourages people to think critically about fireworks and their impact. It’s essential for us all to work towards a solution that protects not just our beloved pets and wildlife but also the tranquility of our communities.
**Discussion Question for Readers**: Given the tragic fate of Roxie and the stress that fireworks can pose to animals, do you believe it’s time for stricter regulations on fireworks sales and usage? What are your thoughts on finding alternatives to traditional fireworks for celebrations?