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Red panda cub’s death linked to firework stress
Roxie (not pictured) died just five days after her mother.
Three-month-old Roxie died on Bonfire Night this year.

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

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Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course relaunched

News Story 1
 The VMD has announced dates for its next Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course.

The event will relaunch on Thursday, 23 October 2025 from 9am to 5pm and will be delivered through an interactive online session.

It is open for anyone involved in a veterinary dispensary role, whether they are new to the topic or looking for a refresh. Attendees will receive vital insights into the safe and compliant handling of veterinary medicines.

The course can be booked online for £495. 

Click here for more...
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New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.