Rabies Scare and the Big Lagoon: Slim's 2024 Travels Part 2

[@SlimPotatohead]

NOTE FROM SLIM: A lot of concerns about Armadillos carrying leprosy. No I did not take anything for leprosy, as again it was very, very low risk. Also leprosy is curable by antibiotics, even after symptoms occur. Rabies however is NOT curable after symptoms. HUGE DIFFERENCE! Thanks, SP

[@skytechbits]

So no blood test for anything? Just shots? You might not have anything. Well I hope the rest of your trip goes well.

[@PattisArtInnaVan]

I've gone thru the rabies series too. And yup, it's painful BUT your titers will protect you for 10 years from rabies.

[@greggoldman893]

Slim, you are a treasure i really hope that you aren’t the first known rabies in the area. A slim chance is still a chance.

[@tedreid1035]

Nothing to test for. @@skytechbits

[@Artemis22202]

I am glad you chose to be safe! Honestly I was concerned about leprosy. I am relieved it is so treatable. Thank you for you beautiful work! Stay safe and have fun!

[@robertstanton1668]

Meanwhile, the armadillo is at the vet's office like, "Doc, I bit a Canadian. Do you think I'll be all right?"

[@margarethughes3763]

😂😂

[@stefansoder6903]

Was gonna do the same joke! Damn you!

[@llaeeZ]

Do you become afraid of maple syrup?

[@jasonwilliamson8346]

😂

[@rajanikumari3672]

🤣🤣

[@debuttaro4477]

Hi Slim, the Blue Angels are a group of Navy pilots stationed in Pensacola. They are fantastic and put on air shows all over. Catch a show if you can!

[@ItsaKarifulLife]

Hi Slim! I’ve just discovered your channel! I love it. You are the Bob Ross of camping/nature. Love your cabin updates as well. Safe travels from the PNW.

[@jayesh5131]

Welcome to the club

[@Wenowknow]

I find Slim's style of narrations so similar to the original Disney nature programs we watched as kids. Very informative and soothing to the ear, candy for the eyes. His camera work is like a true pro. Be sure to binge a little. Lots for you to catch up on. Spread the word (like I do). Slim deserves many more subscribers. ...and no, I'm not related. I just live the very same life. Reno cabin and snowbird. 🙂 My hubby was a pro camera person so I appreciate what it takes to do what slim comes out with.😊

[@debraervin5773]

“The Bob Ross of camping/nature….” Perfect descriptor!

[@chriswells156]

Wise decision, although probably eye-wateringly expensive. The fact the the armadillo was “friendly” would have tipped the scale for me. I have been around many armadillos and none has been comfortable if humans were very near. Your armadillo’s behavior seemed unusual, at least to me, and that is one sign of being rabid.

[@michaelvoldahl-corliss1828]

More likely it had been fed by people at the campground in the past.

[@jodigriffith8760]

Gobbleberry bird is Northern Mockingbird. Yellow-rumped warbler at 12:01

[@dynac8012]

State bird of Texas

[@cheryllapham6279]

He’s eating Yaupon holly berries. They can be poisonous to some birds, but mockingbirds and cedar waxwings love them.

[@beverlystewart5518]

The crazy part of it is the armadillo can’t see well so he is just looking around for food and picking stuff up and checking to see what it is. Did not I am sure even want to bite a human. So sorry for your troubles Slim but so very glad that you did the right thing.

[@bevdwyer2509]

We’re travelling in Georgia and I got very excited when I saw an armadillo on the side of the road snuffling in the grass. I got out and got a few pics but was thinking of you and stayed a safe distance because I didn’t want to be the second Canadian bitten by an armadillo lol. I googled them and the first thing that popped up was that they are carriers of leprosy!

[@barbarawilliams5621]

I am leery of most vaccines, (as most medicines cause me trouble) but this was the right move! Glad you did it, even though it was a lengthy process. We would not want our Canadian friend to get sick- especially with rabies! Stay safe, and enjoy the rest of your trip…

[@susanferrell4750]

Our cat loves to watch your video, especially with the birds!

[@CMoore8539]

My cat does the same thing!😊

[@rajanikumari3672]

My dad got bit by a possibly rabid dog as a child. Be glad the shot regimen has changed since the mid1930’s. While no picnic & a bit spaced out now, the shot regimen he had was truly horrible in number of shots, placement, and number of consecutive days of shots. Great photos of the birds.

[@claramullen]

Slim I am gald you went for the shots and it is good that the heath department said you didn't need more I hope all goes well. We need to remember wildlife is wild no matter how small and tame they might seem you never know what can happen if they get to close. Take care

[@brkaz5864]

Glad you received the rabies vaccines Slim. Currently in Tucson at Saguaro National Park East we are experiencing a possible rabies outbreak. Dead animals are found in the Park, animals are acting "strange" and a hiker was attacked and bitten by a bobcat which is unusual as they normally stay away from humans. Bad time for rabies outbreak at one of our Parks during snowbird season, Gem show season and upcoming Rodeo season. Lots of tourists many of which are international in town.

[@trentk7732]

Wow I'm in Tucson at Houghton and 22nd and this is the first I've heard about it. Fun I have to watch a video about a Canadian to find out what is happening down the street lol

[@lizp.9513]

@@trentk7732😂

[@ammobates]

Hi Slim, Rabies does occur in armadillos but it is extremely rare. Very glad you went ahead and got the shots. Many state health departments have the vaccine as well so check there. Much more likely to contact rabies in skunks in the southern US. Avoid any skunk you might see in the daytime for sure. Also raccoons. FYI: Armadillos are the other mammal (besides humans) in the US that carries Hansen's disease (also known as leprosy). Again highly unlikely to contract it as it generally requires repeated exposure.

[@charleschilders6366]

Sending good vibes and well wishes your way Slim. I had to experience the Rabies immunoglobulin and vaccine process about a year and a half ago. I was one of the lucky ones that did not do so well with the immunoglobulin (long half life). I wanted to tell you and anybody else that may have the same experience that it does get better even though it might take a few weeks. Beats the alternative. Safe travels and take care.

[@Elizabeth-theta1111]

Beautiful scenery Slim. The grey bird in the bush is a mocking bird.

[@lineupfunding]

Glad you checked it out...loving the facial hair. Looks good on you!

[@novampires223]

Very handsome 😊

[@soniayoung7531]

Hi Slim sorry you got bitten ,it's good you got the shots better safe than sorry, beautiful scenery awesome video of the birds ,sunset and sunrise amazing video, stay safe as you continue your travels 😊

[@nevv8581]

Good call Slim. It’s a decision that most people are faced with, you made the right choice. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Cheers eh!

[@carycoombe3380]

I am glad the tip on the window vacuum was handy. BTW: we have met when you were moving from the West to the East coast, and you stopped to meet people at Deacon's Corner in Manitoba.

[@jakeh1474]

I am a little behind, but glad to know SP was alright since I can see he has posted many videos after this. Every time I watch a video of yours, I’m inspired to get out and do some camping myself.

[@kaykaykayak9368]

You’re absolutely right you did the smart thing! It was fun hearing the redwings, a sound I look forward to in the spring ( I live in Wisconsin) Happy travels!

[@o.smallwood4268]

Glad to see your adventures haven't been slowed by the armadillo speed bump! 😁 couldn't resist, sorry...Thanks for sharing as it did loo like a very nice state park. All the best and stay safe; as you always do!

[@turbo5488]

Slim, it's better to be safe instead of being sorry. I want to see more videos stay safe

[@Challway]

Hi there! I moved to NE Florida 19 years ago, and was immediately warned to not touch or go near Armadillos. They carry many diseases,including Leprosy

[@leedanielson7452]

Every single animal, you see out in the woods has a definite possibility of carrying disease... use caution with every animal encounter for sure....

[@jerrygundrum1]

that is what we were told.

[@kristiejacobs4854]

We feel ya', Slim! Me, my spouse and 3 kids had the whole rabies vaccine series several years ago , due to a few bats in our house. My husband is a big guy, so he really was hammered with a lot of shots. He nearly passed out, poor guy. Our kids were patting his hand and saying "there, there now, it's almost over, you're going to be ok; you're being very brave now!" 😂

[@kristiejacobs4854]

I think the gobble berry bird is a Northern Mockingbird?

[@maryboggan8251]

They don't carry rabies. They are nature's garbage disposal!

[@bafergs]

Glad you’re safe from illness. Thanks for the Park review. We’ve added it to our list for places to visit.

[@pennypiotrowski1363]

Thankful that you got the treatment!! Not something to take a chance with. We really enjoy your videos 😊

[@ruthanderson1758]

So glad that bite didn't cause you big problems. What a lovely camping area at a reasonable cost.

[@MaryK4242]

OMGosh! You were right down the road from me!! How cool is that? I love Big Lagoon, I moved close to here for access to it for kayaking. Glad you got to experience my neck of the woods. 🥰

[@r8edrv4fun65]

No... he's right down the road from Me! 😂 He's usually so far away

[@bradleyp2490]

The Blue Angels, formally named the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, are a flight demonstration squadron of the United States Navy. Formed in 1946, the unit is the second oldest formal aerobatic team in the world, after the French Patrouille de France formed in 1931.

[@dougzirkle5951]

Hate that you had to go thru that on your own, in surroundings so far from the comfort of home. You probably did the right thing and it’s a good lesson for all your viewers. Nice looking places that you’re staying down there!

[@conchscooter]

I have no medical advice to offer but I’m glad you got professional help. And Florida State Parks are the best. Before we took to the road we always had the annual pass.

[@Kenbur]

From biting armadillos to "just don't get your dog drunk" great video. Thanks for sharing Slim.

[@annavallentin4662]

So glad you got treatment and then clearance to not need subsequent shots. Better to be safe than sorry and we'd like you to remain healthy! BTW, your mustache and goatee look great -- very sophisticated, IMHO. 😊

[@sonora108]

You made the right decision to go ahead with the Rabies vaccine or antiserum as they called it way back in 1966 when I went through the Rabies shots. I had a tangle with a bat in a cave, it broke the skin on my face so same decision was made. Back then I seem to remember getting more shots and at 3, 7, 14 and 21 days. I've always heard Armadillos carried leprosy? PS Glad you didn't have to finish the series.

[@rockypluto2683]

Good to see you travelling through my neck of the woods..😊

[@JanelleVocate-Ames]

YAY!!!!!

[@JanelleVocate-Ames]

So sorry all this happened to you Slim!

[@innescoull7061]

I have to say I do miss the old slim cooking shows when camping I would like the see them back again

[@frankenyon]

Glad you are ok. Glad you are back on the road. Love your little trailer! Wish I could travel the way you do.

[@doreen3737]

Hey hey good morning just happened to have the phone in my hand awesome!!❤ Another slim video.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Good morning!

[@doreen3737]

Hey, I didn't watch the video yet When I said good morning. People mean well but sometimes they do Overreact I guess cause they care. I'm sure you will be okay 👍 👌 You make me laugh by naming the birds😂😂. And I can hear the pep in your voice Again midway through the video.. At first you were scared, but then you got happy again.😊 One day I'm gonna take the 5 hour trip up there. Veterans, get a package deal for all state parks. Think it's like $50 for the year. And they can have entrance to all the parks in Florida. Yay for me😊😊

[@bethprice9702]

Slim your bird shots were so good our cat jumped up and tried to nail them! She jumped up again and patted your face. She usually ignores the TV! LOL Glad you had the bite looked at and treated. Reconsider the follow up. We are in SW GA they have had two postings about Rabies. Ours were both fox related. Serious enough that the health department posted warnings at a local restaurant.

[@janohare916]

Great video, Slim, I love the birds footage and campground recommendation-and humor. 😊

[@theresevh]

Good call on getting the shots! Better safe than, well.... still sorry you had to go through that. You sure don't complain! I'd be a big baby about it myself! That state park looks very lovely. I'm glad you found the bright side. Thanks again for another great video!

[@johnandsharon5785]

Slim, in our tiny camper, we crack our vent fan and a window to prevent condensation.

[@vincentsebastiano1058]

Hi Slim, I have to say I love your percolator. My wife bought me one for my 69 birthday few years ago and it brought back memories of making coffee in the 60’s and early 70’s before Mr Coffee. I put my electric drip machine in the basement and haven’t missed it. I think coffee tastes better perked, just my opinion

[@lacyhouse1]

I love our window vac for our camper van too! When we put the privacy blinds in the front windshield we have a lot of condensation in the morning. The vac does the job fast with no streaks like a rag would make. Safe travels, Slim!

[@lynnmitch]

You made the right decision

[@teslah2997]

I like the voiceover style. And regarding depression….I,too, have been going through some dpression as my life just hasn’t turned out the way I thought it might (I am 73, so not much chance of turning it around). Hang in there….it, too, shall pass. Glad you have 3 people that show up for you…that is more than many people have. I have always said to myself when things were difficult in life that has always put it in better perspective for me….”It could be worse”

[@SlimPotatohead]

I think you mixed me up with another vlogger. Not depressed, and I travel solo. I do wish you happiness though, it is always within reach if you find the right path. SP

[@teslah2997]

@@SlimPotatohead Hi, Slim….I did,indeed, intend this for someone else. Not sure how that could even happen. Thanks for well wishes….sorry you had to go through rabies shot protocol due to the armadillo. They don’t usually bite like that, so probably a smart move on your part. I have enjoyed your vids for a few years now….keep adventuring. 🙂

[@davidbarts6144]

Glad you got the shots. Like you said, rabies is near 100% fatal once symptoms develop, so best not to play around.

[@chrishelms1967]

Glad to see you found a great park to spend a few days in

[@robinmiller5256]

Went years ago to Florida and stayed at the place where the Creature from the Black Lagoon was filmed, and worth checking out. Lots of scenery, a true lagoon with manatees and gators and a huge underwater cave, clear boat tours, hope you get to visit. Cheers

[@kcadventures1454]

That's awesome I had no clue

[@michellegarry1872]

Silver Springs. Beautiful place.

[@kcadventures1454]

@@michellegarry1872 thank you.

[@azclaimjumper]

Thanks for the excellent review of this well-kept State Park with all the amenities. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada

[@larrygilbert7273]

Gotta love Mardens! Guess you bought it when you saw it at Mardens.

[@phoebelong7513]

wow....glad you are alright Slim. Rabies is NOT something you want to mess around with. Looks like a great place to spend time in and watch the wildlife. Thanks as always!

[@ShawnPatterson402]

very much looking forward to the rest of your trip

[@homeshows]

What an experience. But the armadillo was pretty cute.

[@RabidFlowerpot]

You look different, good, but different. Keep doing whatever your doing because it works for you.

[@cathie9614]

The Opossum is the only wild animal in US that doesn't carry or get rabies. They can eat 5000 ticks a year which helps the environment for all. They will also eat catfood and peanut butter sandwiches. 😋

[@sharondavis6121]

Thanks for the good information. I'm picking up my Runaway Cool Camper in Fl in 2 weeks. I put this state park on my list of places to visit

[@jeffhoward9186]

So happy and glad that you got checked out and it turned out to be a positive after a scary time of unfortunate events. Sorry about the shots. Onward and forward with your travels. Good luck and Gods speed.

[@DesertDog8989]

Was so worried about ya and have never ever given you a worry signal in the past b/c you're a grown man. This was the only time I raised a red flag, along with others, and I'm so glad you were able to get the medical attention to mitigate any problems down the line. Slim, this world wouldn't be the same without ya!

[@artieross9537]

I laughed out loud when you said, "Just don't get your dog drunk." That was a great line! I'm glad you heeded everyone's advice. Better safe than sorry. Thank you for the bird shots. They're exceptional.

[@wildlifeonwheels4236]

Nice to hear that everything is ok! That many shots sounds awful lol, for 1 shot I was in a lot of pain, can’t imagine 8 😂. Also that new mustache and beard works well on you! Have a good day SP!

[@Yorickunderscore]

Pensacola is home to the US Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, known as the Blue Angels.

[@cshadowbrown2222]

Hello from Ocala Florida. Praying for your safe travels. Glad you are doing well. Blessings

[@SlimPotatohead]

Hello Ocala!

[@spc3461]

Woah, that armadillo bite had me on the edge of my seat! Glad you're okay, Slim! Big Lagoon looks stunning - can't wait to see more.

[@jayesh5131]

Bro you Indian? If yes 🤗 I've been following Slim for 5 years, never have I seen another Indian comment here. I thought I was the only one 😅

[@roadtripwarriors7458]

I think we may have stayed in your exact site (19). Our site was very unlevel and we had to park our travel trailer right where you parked yours as it was the only area where it was reasonably level. We stayed at Big Lagoon SP during our 2024 Spring Break road trip from the Orlando area to the FL panhandle, and back. I agree, it is a very nice park with lots to do. I wish we had taken the time to go to Perdido Key.

[@lisafrancis7534]

Oh slim.....darn cute little buggers. Shots suck! But glad your ok and hppefully no sude effects

[@richardspurlocck5165]

Really impressed by your decision-making process. Well done

[@raktoda707]

What a video,chock full of wildlife and birds of every family you make it all seem so random like a wonderland.Cool invention,the window vacuum it'll keep the moisture from gathering at the seams or putty points.M.leprae is a bacteria that armadillos can and have transmitted .Please read more as it is very serious.You pick the best routes, avoiding all the snow and hurricanes.Its a true delight to watch you as life unfolds around you.Thankyou ..peace,safe travels

[@Lisa-ud6qz]

Glad your good was a little concerned but you very smart❤❤❤❤

[@leliladurnford382]

Hi Slim, I love your videos! I wish it's longer but I understand, it takes a long time to have a content. You have beautiful shots & the views are spectacular. I look forward to your next video. Be safe!

[@samdevallance1527]

I agree sometimes I wish his videos were longer too.

[@bambambundy6]

Slim I'm sorry you have had to do that!! In Pensacola I always stayed out on the island down by Ft. Pickens.

[@CragScrambler]

It's an Slim upload, gotta be a good day. P.S Hope youre doin okay bud.

[@krisg3984]

Wow, hang in there Slim ! I believe you made the right choice to get to the shots. I mean how often does an Amarillo just seek out a human just to bite them . Stay and get the care you need . Your nature shots and hikes are enjoyable . Glad your heater is working well for you. You seem in high spirits

[@leedanielson7452]

Armadillos, raccoons, possums, foxes, and all wild animals carry the distinct possibility of having rabies for sure... use caution people! 😊👍👏🏻 Love every video you put out Slim you are amazing!!!😊🎉🎉🎉

[@SlimPotatohead]

Let's not forget dogs!

[@punkotter1867]

​Hi ​@@SlimPotatohead Not many cases of rabies in the U.S heavy license/ rabie laws in every state. Always ,if medical ,never get your advise from the internet. Always contact health department all rabie cases are reported along with other diseases which is shared to other states. Just a little fyi from a medical professional. Safe travels !

[@leedanielson7452]

@@SlimPotatohead Yes definitely dogs too!!!

[@fatmonet]

I gotta say, that was pretty random and sounds like the beginning of a good joke...."An armadillo casually walks up to a man sitting in the woods.....

[@Roarmeister2]

Nice looking beard, Slim. Keep it up, it defines you.

[@michele2855]

Glad you are okay. Thanks for the footage! I would love that campsite. The bird footage was awesome ❤

[@hotlavatube]

Oh no, Slim looks like he's foaming at the mouth! (squints) False alarm, that's just his goatee.

[@suzyfoster623]

Glad you are going to be ok..🙂🙂🙏🙏

[@d4nial]

Shout out to my state and Marden's in Maine! (I'm guessing the Scarborough one!) Cue the music 🎶"I should have bought it, when I saw it, at Marden's!"🎶

[@LOT9T]

Dropped in early! TY Slim

[@pamhutzell8268]

I am glad you didn't have to have more shots! Sorry about Pa. 'S weather , I don't like it too. The one storm we lost our power. Safe travels ,hugs

[@NoraMarshallLenneice]

Sooo glad you went with safety first. How crazy. Be safe, be healthy, be blessed!

[@maryvalent961]

Good call ,Slim. Rabies can harbor in the body and show up as neurological issues 10 years later. By the time you remember you were once bitten it’s too late. Folks, never let a wild animal get close. If it seems tame there’s a high likelihood it’s sick.

[@n8rlvr876]

Poor you! Between the storm damage at the cabin and being bitten by a dang armadillo….! I mean… my goodness! Here’s wishing you a slightly less “eventful” Spring season!😄 So glad you’re all right though, and thanks for the fantastic bird footage!

[@chaosncheckt9356]

Have camped at Big Lagoon and it is a very nice park. Speaking of utilities, it’s water and electricity only, none of the sites have sewer. Ft. Pickens is nearby as well and you can do self guided tours of the fort.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Yes, but it does have a dump station.

[@kimprocarione5473]

Great news! And I had never heard of a window vacuum! Very cool!

[@opethian8512]

Thank you for the upload and glad you didnt contract leprosy!

[@GRADYGUY]

I'm glad you decided to play it safe. Guess I'm selfish as I'd be sad and miss your videos. Wishing you only the very best.

[@ralphsmith8682]

The Blue Angels is a Navy flight team that flies in air shows. They are stationed in Pensacola Fl.

[@doublejackmcleod9931]

"...just don't get your dog drunk." 🤣🤣

[@pagewhite61]

Slim, I’m so very sorry this happened to you, it’s not very hospitable of the US to infect you with a deadly disease. Good grief. I’m glad you got the vaccine. ❤

[@beroche6849]

Glad you got treatment. Much better safe than sorry! Hoping the rest of your treatment goes smoothly!

[@beroche6849]

Glad no more shots needed!!

[@jimpetersen8095]

I think you did do the right thing Slim. Better to be safe than sorry. As for your Blue Angel thing I’m still laughing about that. We use to call it the back burner. Safe travels Slim

[@carolnain9042]

My kitten is really enjoying all the birds in this video

[@redsorgum]

The birds are beautiful. I do believe there's a reason for everything in life. Perhaps that bite kept you from a bigger deal. I think you did the right thing. Thanks for posting this video.✌️🇺🇸🇨🇦✌️

[@marianfrances4959]

Glad you're ok. Beard and mustache look great. Happy trails. 👍😎🇨🇦

[@rrhopewell]

Love this video. Sorry bout getting bit.

[@larryparson9609]

Great News lesson be ware of Armadillo 😮 who would have thunk Nice your rig has a Garage with added camper shell lockable I hope peac of mind double triple as a camper too Happy Trails Thanks waiting to finish this episode and look forward to the next