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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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Sustainability leader elected first CEO of Vet Sustain

News Story 1
 Vet Sustain, an organisation supporting veterinary professionals towards a more sustainable future, has appointed Laura Gelder-Robertson as its first chief executive officer.

Bringing 25 years of business and sustainability experience to the role, Laura will head up a team of directors, volunteers and working group members, driving action towards six sustainability goals (Welfare, Wildlife, Wellbeing, Warming, Waste and Water).

Welcoming Laura to the team, Vet Sustain's chair Ed Bailey said: "We are thrilled to appoint Laura at the helm of Vet Sustain. Working with our existing team, her expertise will allow cross-pollination of ideas and solutions from other sectors, strengthening the tools, training and collaborations we build to serve our veterinary community." 

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Applications open for RCVS Fellowship

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has opened applications for veterinary surgeons to join the RCVS Fellowship.

The RCVS Fellowship is a learned society which works to advance veterinary standards and promote scientific excellence.

Veterinary surgeons can enter the RCVS Fellowship through three routes, each with different criteria. This enables people with a range of expertise and experience to join the society.

The routes are: Meritorious Contributions to Clinical Practice, Meritorious Contributions to Knowledge and Meritorious Contributions to the Profession.

Applicants must share a summary of their contributions to the profession, including examples of significant works produced throughout their career. The application will then be assessed by a panel of judges against a set of criteria.

Veterinary surgeons have until 4pm on Friday, 14 March to submit applications. More information, including requirements and guidance can be found here.