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.
#Fireworks #blamed #baby #panda #dies #Edinburgh #Zoo
How can public awareness campaigns effectively promote the protection of animals from the dangers of fireworks?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Head of RZSS**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Ben. The tragic passing of panda cub Roxie on Guy Fawkes night has certainly raised awareness about the impact of fireworks on animals. Could you elaborate on how fireworks specifically affect the well-being of animals in zoos?
**Ben Supple:** Thank you for having me. Fireworks can be extremely distressing for animals. The loud noises and bright lights can trigger fear responses, leading to stress, anxiety, and in some cases, severe health consequences. Roxie’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of how these celebrations can have unintended but profound effects on vulnerable animals, particularly those who have already experienced trauma, like losing a parent.
**Interviewer:** It’s devastating to hear about Roxie, especially given her recent loss. You’ve called for stricter regulations on fireworks. What specific measures do you believe should be implemented?
**Ben Supple:** I think a comprehensive ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public would be a crucial step. We need to protect not only our pets and livestock but also the animals in zoos who cannot escape the noise. I believe it’s vital for the Scottish and UK governments to collaborate on this issue and act decisively to minimize the risks associated with fireworks.
**Interviewer:** Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown supports efforts to reduce the stress caused to animals by fireworks but mentions that the central government in London has the final say. What are your thoughts on this division of responsibility?
**Ben Supple:** It’s a complex situation. Fireworks regulations must be handled at a national level, and it’s disappointing that it takes an incident like Roxie’s to reignite this conversation. Animal welfare should be a priority, and I hope this serves as a wake-up call for both the Scottish and UK governments to address the concerns surrounding fireworks usage and consider unified action.
**Interviewer:** As we reflect on Roxie’s passing, what do you think readers should take away from this incident?
**Ben Supple:** I hope people understand the real effects of fireworks on all living creatures. It’s not just about humans enjoying a spectacle; we must consider the broader implications for animals who share our environment. I encourage our readers to think about the festival traditions they participate in and advocate for changes that promote the well-being of all animals.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ben, for shedding light on this important issue. Now, we want to hear from you, our readers. Do you think fireworks should be banned entirely for the sake of animal welfare, or is it possible to find a balance that allows for celebration without harming our wildlife? Share your thoughts in the comments!
