Keeping outdoor pens cool?

[Shay]

After searching through these threads, I've really been inspired to work at creating an outdoor enclosure for my ferts. My only potential problem, however, is the weather here. I live in Colorado, and the summers here can get pretty hot. (it's not uncommon to be in the 90s or higher).

Now, I know this is much too hot for ferrets, but I'm wondering if there's anything I could do that would keep the temperatures down. Would it be worth it to create some sort of pond or something like that? A mister and outdoor fan?

Has anyone ever encountered this problem and solved it, or would it be my best bet to just allow them outside during spring/fall/winter months?

Thanks so much in advance

[lorelei0922]

make sure you provide paddling water... a play pool or extra large litter box with water...


you can put frozen water bottles in a sock and tuck them into the nest boxes or indeed into the water

you can situate the outdoor enclosure in the shadiest part of the garden

Chincillers or slabs of marble will stay cool in warmer weather

be careful with a fan ... electrical shorts or little paws... can be a disaster...

but misting them frequently on extra hot days is a good idea.

In the summer our lot skip the nest boxes completely and stretch out on the concrete or sleep in the high up hanging things which will catch a slight breeze...