Red panda cub’s death linked to firework stress
Roxie (not pictured) died just five days after her mother.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has called for tighter restrictions on fireworks after the death of a three-month-old red panda cub at Edinburgh Zoo on Bonfire Night.
Veterinary experts say that Roxie choked on her vomit on 5 November, which they believe to be due to the stress of the fireworks being set off across Edinburgh.
The cub’s death comes just five days after the death of her mother, Ginger. RZSS say that they cannot rule out that fireworks may have also contributed to Ginger’s death.
Following her mother's death, Roxie had been receiving specialist care from Edinburgh Zoo’s team. She had been responding well and was feeding independently.
However, despite having access to her den, the loud noises from the fireworks may have been too overwhelming for the cub.
The announcement of Roxie’s death comes a week after a public petition calling for tighter firework restrictions was delivered to the UK government. It has been signed by more than a million people.
The petition, supported by the RSPCA, calls for firework use to be limited to the dates of traditional festivals. It also proposes a reduction in the maximum decibel level from 120dB to 97dB.
RZSS is calling for people to join the cause by contacting their local MP or MSP to support the petition.
Ben Supple, RZSS deputy chief executive, said: “Fireworks can cause fear and distress for pets, livestock and animals in zoos, so it is essential that the UK and Scottish governments tighten restrictions on their sale and use.
“We support calls from animal welfare charities to ban the sale of fireworks to the public, with only light displays being permitted at organised events.
“This would help avoid devastating consequences for animals like Roxie while ensuring that people can still enjoy traditional celebrations.”
Image © Shutterstock
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
