Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 15th November 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

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

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."