Again, the temperature issue

[shaymt]

I recently received a Chinchilla as a birthday gift. Although I'd mentioned I'd like one, I wasn't particularly prepared for one. I've read previous threads about keeping my chins temp down, but unfortunately in my current financial situation, there is one thing I cannot provide my chin: air conditioning.

I would like to be able to buy a a/c unit when I have the money, however, being a student, I won't be able to afford one for another month or so. I live in Denver, but lately the temp has been around 80-90. This temp thing isn't something I'll need to worry much about in the winter, since it's always nearly freezing here, but in the meantime, I'm a little worried for my poor chin.

I don't have a thermostat in apartment, but what I've been doing is consistently had my ceiling fan and box fans going in an effort to help alleviate some of the heat, as well as place frozen bottles and/or frozen Ziplock tupperware boxes (so that he may sit on them) in my chins cage prior to leaving for work in the morning. I've also got 'Chin-Chillers,' the small marble pieces. I've placed him in an area in my hallway that doesn't have any windows, so that the sunlight can't get in and make things even worse. But, still, I'm at a loss.

Is there anything else I can do? I want to keep my chin, and provide for him the essentials that he'll need. But I'm really strapped for cash, and wasn't expecting him to pop up in my life so soon.

Any help and/or suggestions would really be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Rickman]

I think I'd try to find a rescue and ask if you could keep him there until the weather breaks! Bring feed and hay, tell them it's just temporary, and maybe they'll just charge a couple of bucks a day. Maybe even a vets office will help!
Good luck with your unexpected present, and Happy Birthday!

 

[tunes]

While the thought behind the present was nice, people have no business giving "gifts" they know nothing about.

I also would try and find someone who can keep your chin until the high temperatures pass. The things you are doing are only meant to be temporary. A power outage for a couple hours, replacing an a/c. They will not keep your chin cool for weeks until the hot spell passes. Fans do nothing but push hot air around. They don't actually cool. The only reason they feel like they cool for you is because you can sweat. Chins can't.

The other option would be if you have any friends who do have a/c that might be willing to chin sit. You're in an apartment, are you friends with any of your neighbors that could help you out? If it's a house, is there a basement he might go into (providing it's not damp and moldy)?

 

[Rickman]

To add - your local craigslist may have an inexpensive window A.C. for cheap - around here they're $35 and up, some barely used, and prices are negotiable!

 

[addictedtochins]

Here is Denver CL ads for a AC, some are $25-35 bucks. Old doesn't matter as long as it blows cold, check before you buy. And negociate sp? for a deal, AC weather is almost over. If you need money, sell something on CL, go to a pawn shop whatever. Heatstroke in chins is real and has lasting effects incl. brain damage and death.
http://denver.craigslist.org/search...eviation=sss&srchType=T&minAsk=min&maxAsk=max

 

[Jovi]

Having air conditioner is essential but another thing to consider is what happens if he requires a vet visit. I know you want to keep him but unless u have money for an AC and emergency vet visit, it probably isn't the right time for you to have a chinchilla. I hope you find some place to keep before he over heats. good luck!

 

[Mystic]

Looking on craigslist for a A/C unit would be a great idea. I've seen some listed before for as low as $30. Otherwise, I would try to find some place, or someone to take care of him until the hot weather breaks. Good luck!