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 ensure the well-being of zoo animals during fireworks celebrations, as highlighted by Ben Supple’s interview regarding Roxie’s tragic passing?
**Interview with Ben Supple, Deputy Head of Royal Zoological Society of Scotland**
*Interviewer:* Thank you for joining us, Ben. Can you explain the circumstances surrounding Roxie’s tragic passing?
*Ben Supple:* Thank you for having me. Roxie, a young panda cub at our zoo, unfortunately choked on her own vomit on Guy Fawkes night. This was likely triggered by the stress from fireworks that night, especially following the loss of her mother a short time ago. Our team did everything possible to support her during this difficult time.
*Interviewer:* You mentioned the impact of fireworks on animals. Why do you believe stricter regulations are necessary?
*Ben Supple:* Fireworks can instigate intense fear and stress in not just pets, but also livestock and zoo animals. This incident with Roxie is a clear example of how such celebrations can lead to devastating outcomes. We are advocating for the Scottish and UK governments to consider a ban on public fireworks sales to mitigate these risks.
*Interviewer:* Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown acknowledged the distress caused to animals by fireworks and emphasized the need for action from the London government. How do you see the role of local vs. central government in this issue?
*Ben Supple:* It’s crucial that both levels of government work together. While local governments can push for immediate changes and awareness, central governments have the power to implement nationwide regulations. This collaborative effort is necessary to ensure the wellbeing of all animals.
*Interviewer:* Some people enjoy fireworks as part of their celebrations. How do you think we can balance the enjoyment of such events with the welfare of animals?
*Ben Supple:* That’s a pivotal question. We need to find ways to celebrate that do not pose risks to animals. Perhaps alternatives to fireworks, such as light shows or other less distressing displays, could be considered. I’d love to hear opinions on how we can create celebrations that protect both joy and animal welfare.
*Interviewer:* Thank you, Ben. You’ve provided a lot for our readers to think about.
*Ben Supple:* Thank you for the opportunity to speak on this important matter.
**Question for Discussion:** How do you think society can balance the enjoyment of fireworks during celebrations with the welfare of animals? Are there effective alternatives that can replace traditional fireworks, or should there be stricter regulations on their use? Share your thoughts!