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 chairman 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 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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How does the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland plan to advocate for stricter regulations on fireworks to protect animal welfare?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Chairman of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us, Ben. The tragic loss of panda cub Roxie has raised significant concerns about the impact of fireworks on animals. Can you tell us more about how Roxie’s environment was affected by the fireworks during the Guy Fawkes night festivities?
**Ben Supple**: Thank you for having me. Roxie had recently lost her mother, Ginger, and we were carefully monitoring her wellbeing. Unfortunately, the fireworks that filled the night caused her considerable stress, which our vets believe contributed to her choking on her own vomit. This incident highlights how sensitive animals are to loud noises, especially during events like Guy Fawkes night.
**Interviewer**: It’s a heartbreaking situation. You’ve called for the UK and Scottish governments to tighten restrictions on fireworks. What specific changes are you advocating for?
**Ben Supple**: We believe a ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public is crucial. Furthermore, we want stricter guidelines for their use, particularly during times when animals are more vulnerable. It’s vital to protect not just zoo animals, but also pets and livestock from the fear that fireworks can cause.
**Interviewer**: Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown has acknowledged the stress fireworks cause animals. What responsibility do you think the government should take in regulating fireworks, and how do you envision public response to such potential changes?
**Ben Supple**: I believe there is a moral responsibility for the government to act. The public needs to recognize that our enjoyment of fireworks should not compromise the welfare of animals. I anticipate a mixed response; while many may support tighter regulations after incidents like Roxie’s, there will always be those who prioritize personal liberty during celebrations. The important conversation here is about balance—how do we celebrate safely without imposing harm on innocent lives?
**Interviewer**: Engaging the public in this conversation is vital. What do you think readers should consider when reflecting on the regulations surrounding fireworks?
**Ben Supple**: I encourage readers to reflect on the broader impacts of fireworks beyond just human enjoyment. Are our celebrations worth the potential distress caused to animals, both domesticated and wild? It’s a crucial debate we need to have as a society—one that weighs human traditions against the welfare of all living creatures.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Ben, for your insights. This issue certainly opens up a vital discussion on the use of fireworks and the welfare of animals.
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**Debate Prompt for Readers**: In light of the tragic loss of panda cub Roxie, do you believe the enjoyment of fireworks should outweigh the potential stress and harm to animals? Should regulations on fireworks be tightened, or do you think personal freedom to celebrate should remain intact? Share your thoughts and let’s discuss!
