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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How is the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland advocating for changes in firework regulations to protect 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 young panda Roxie has brought fireworks’ impact on animals into sharp focus. Can you explain how her death was connected to the fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night?
**Ben Supple:** Thank you for having me. Roxie was only three months old and had just lost her mother, Ginger. On Guy Fawkes Night, the loud explosions from fireworks likely caused her significant stress, which we believe led to her choking on vomit. It’s incredibly sad for us as caretakers, especially after she had been responding well to our care.
**Interviewer:** Your organization is calling for tighter regulations on fireworks. What specific changes are you advocating for?
**Ben Supple:** We’re urging both the Scottish Government and the UK central government to reconsider current guidelines regarding fireworks, particularly their use and sale. We want to see stricter regulations that could ultimately lead to a ban on sales to the public, as fireworks can create panic not just among pets, but also wildlife and zoo animals.
**Interviewer:** Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown mentioned that the issue may also hinge on actions from the London government. How do you see this affecting the potential for change?
**Ben Supple:** That’s correct. While we are raising awareness at the local level, it does require cooperation from both the Scottish and UK governments to enact meaningful regulations. It’s vital that we collectively recognize the toll that fireworks take on animals and take decisive action.
**Interviewer:** Given the ongoing debate about personal freedoms versus animal welfare, how do you think public sentiment will shift regarding fireworks after this incident?
**Ben Supple:** I think this tragic situation highlights a critical reality for many—fireworks can cause unforeseen distress to animals. I believe public sentiment may begin to shift as people become more aware of the effects on not just pets and livestock, but captive animals in zoos. It’s an opportunity for us to foster discussion and reevaluate our traditions in light of animal welfare.
**Interviewer:** Do you think a complete ban on fireworks will be met with resistance from the public?
**Ben Supple:** Absolutely. Fireworks are an ingrained part of many celebrations, and any major policy changes will face pushback. However, the tragic fate of Roxie may just be the catalyst needed to prompt a substantial conversation about balancing enjoyment and safety for all beings involved.
**Interviewer:** what would you say to those who might argue that traditional celebrations shouldn’t change due to animal concerns?
**Ben Supple:** I would encourage them to consider the broader implications of our actions. There are many ways to celebrate that do not come with the same risks to animals and public safety. A simple shift in how we honor our traditions can lead to a more compassionate society.
As we reflect on Roxie’s passing, let’s open a dialog about how we can keep our celebrations enjoyable while ensuring the wellbeing of all creatures who share this planet with us.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ben, for shedding light on these important issues. Readers, what are your thoughts? Should there be stricter firework regulations, or do the traditions of our celebrations take precedence? Join the debate!
