Keeping cool on a car journey...

[jess_w]

I don't usually have to worry about my chins overheating, as most of the time it's pretty cool where I live (Northern UK). But recently the weather has been really hot and humid for round here, and while it's cool enough in the house it's absolutely baking outside.

I have to take my 2 chins to the vet tomorrow and the only appointment he could give us was 12:40pm - right in the middle of the day - so any tips on keeping them cool in the car would be appreciated. The air conditioning in our car is not very good (more like a fan than proper air con) so I'm thinking this might be a struggle... =( Any ideas?

 

[lauralynne]

How far is the vet from where you live? You can put tiles (chinchillers) in your fridge or freezer and put them in their carrier for them to sit on. If you have a small cooler, it would be good to have a few extra tiles and put them in there w/ some ice packs in case you need to change them out.

 

[alli713]

Is there a health reason as to why your chins have to go to the vet? If it's just for a checkup, most people actually do not advocate taking chins to the vet just because.

If it's not an absolute necessity, I would suggest calling them back and asking to reschedule in the early morning when it won't be hot out. Not having proper a/c is not a good idea. Imagine how hot it will be in the car after it's been baking in the sun.

 

[jess_w]

Alli - I know how hot it will be, that's the problem! Unfortunately it is necessary that they go, not just a check-up. We've left the car in the garage overnight so it won't have been out in the sun before we go.

I'll use the chinchiller idea as well, didn't think of that =) and I will put a blanket over the cage so the sun isn't shining on them

 

[Euphoric]

How far is the vet from where you live? You can put tiles (chinchillers) in your fridge or freezer and put them in their carrier for them to sit on. If you have a small cooler, it would be good to have a few extra tiles and put them in there w/ some ice packs in case you need to change them out.

I agree. I live in the desert and its averaging 103-113 this time of year.
Unfortunately, its been in the higher 100's lately. I keep my house very cool, but sometimes I need to transport my animals for whatever reason (I have quite a zoo)
For even reptiles, I take a marble slabs that I put in the freezer and put them (If its a small mammal) in the carrier.
Also, I put my fabric carriers in the fridge too