Hi,
Although the idea of using a block of dry ice to cool a room is attractive
from the financial point of view, it could also be very dangerous,
especially to a captive ferret.  In high concentrations CO2 has a near
immediate anasthetic effect and leads rapidly to death.  It is used for this
purpose in killing rodents etc.  for feeding to other animals (such as
reptiles and birds of prey) and also in some slaughter houses as a pre-stun.
In lower concentrations it causes an increase in respiration rate as the
body reacts to an increase in CO2, NOT a decrease in oxygen, thus a
hyperventilation can be induced.  There is also some evidence that long term
exposure to an increased concentration has a toxic effect.  CO2 is also
heavier than air and can become concentrated in sealed animal enclosures
such as old aquaria, if there is insufficient draught.  Any concentration
increases stress on a animal and should thus be avoided, especially in the
case of som eof Dayna's very ill ferts.
 
As an emergency solution, try placing a freezer pack (for cool boxes) about
a foot ABOVE the casualty on a wire grid.  In still air it will provided a
cool down-draught for the hot fuzzy, but make sure it can't be touched, as
cool burns will result.  Alternatively, use old plastic carbonated drink
bottles filled wit water and frozen.
 
graham
[Posted in FML issue 1592]