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 minimize the impact of fireworks on wildlife and companion animals?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Head of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Ben. The tragic death of baby panda Roxie has raised significant concerns about the impact of fireworks on wildlife. Can you explain what happened on Guy Fawkes Night?
**Ben Supple:** Thank you for having me. On Guy Fawkes Night, which is known for its fireworks displays, our three-month-old panda cub Roxie tragically choked on her own vomit. Our veterinary team believes this was likely a reaction to the stress caused by the loud noises from the fireworks. Roxie had recently lost her mother and was under specialist care, so this incident is especially heartbreaking for us.
**Interviewer:** It’s indeed a heartbreaking situation. You’ve called for stricter regulations on fireworks. Can you elaborate on what those regulations would look like?
**Ben Supple:** Absolutely. We believe it’s crucial for both the Scottish and UK governments to tighten guidelines on fireworks. Specifically, I’m advocating for a ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public. The use of fireworks can cause significant distress not only to domestic pets but also to zoo animals and livestock. It’s vital we protect all animals from this kind of trauma.
**Interviewer:** Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown has expressed agreement on the stress fireworks cause animals. What are the next steps for the government in addressing this issue?
**Ben Supple:** Minister Brown has acknowledged the serious impact fireworks can have and has stated that discussions are underway, emphasizing that it’s imperative for the government in London to take action. I am hopeful that these discussions will lead to real change in how fireworks are regulated and used.
**Interviewer:** This raises an important question: Should individuals be allowed to use fireworks if they pose such a risk to animal welfare? What do you think about public sentiment towards personal fireworks?
**Ben Supple:** That’s a critical question. While fireworks are enjoyed by many during celebrations, we must balance that enjoyment with the safety and well-being of animals. I believe it’s time for society to reconsider the impact fireworks have on our surrounding environment, especially on vulnerable wildlife.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ben. This situation certainly opens up a broader debate on public celebrations and their environmental and ethical implications. What are your thoughts, readers? Should the sale and use of fireworks be restricted for the welfare of animals? Your opinions could shape the discussion around this significant issue.
