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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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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
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Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.