Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

This summer, my dog contracted a tick-borne disease called Anaplasmosis. We had to seek emergency care due to his high fever. Despite giving him pills to prevent tick bites, which I thought would keep him safe, it turned out they aren't 100% effective.

He was treated with antibiotics and pain relief, and two days later, he was back to his healthy, adventurous self. There are ways to help prevent your dog from getting these diseases. If you find and remove a tick within 24-48 hours, the risk of your dog getting sick is significantly reduced. Therefore, it's crucial to check for ticks every day.

Ticks can transmit various pathogens that cause serious illnesses in dogs. Understanding these diseases, their symptoms, and how to prevent and treat them can be a lifesaver for your dog!

What Are Tick-Borne Diseases?

Tick-borne diseases are infections transmitted to dogs through tick bites. The most common tick-borne diseases affecting dogs include Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Each of these diseases is caused by different pathogens, such as bacteria and protozoa, which ticks carry and transmit when they bite and feed on a dog.

Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs

1. Lyme Disease: Caused by the bacterium *Borrelia burgdorferi*, Lyme disease can lead to joint inflammation, fever, and lethargy. In severe cases, it can cause kidney failure.

2. Ehrlichiosis: This disease is caused by *Ehrlichia* bacteria. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, weight loss, and abnormal bleeding. Chronic ehrlichiosis can result in severe immune system issues.

3. Anaplasmosis: Caused by *Anaplasma* bacteria, this disease presents with symptoms such as fever, joint pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also cause anemia and neurological problems.

4. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: This disease is caused by the bacterium *Rickettsia rickettsii*. Symptoms include fever, rash, muscle pain, and neurological issues. It can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of Tick-Borne Diseases

The symptoms of tick-borne diseases can vary depending on the specific pathogen involved, but common signs to watch for include:

• Fever
• Lethargy or decreased activity
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Neurological signs (e.g., seizures, difficulty walking)

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, especially if you know they have been exposed to ticks, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately.

Preventing Tick-Borne Diseases

Prevention is key to protecting your dog from tick-borne diseases. Here are some effective strategies to minimize the risk:

1. Tick Prevention Products: Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products such as topical treatments, collars, and oral medications. These products can kill ticks on contact or repel them, reducing the likelihood of bites.

2. Regular Tick Checks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your dog for ticks. Pay special attention to areas like the ears, neck, underbelly, and between toes. Promptly remove any ticks you find.

3. Vaccination: In some regions, vaccines are available for certain tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease. Consult your veterinarian to see if vaccination is appropriate for your dog.

Treating Tick-Borne Diseases

If your dog is diagnosed with a tick-borne disease, treatment typically involves:

1. Antibiotics: Most tick-borne diseases are treated with antibiotics. The specific medication and duration of treatment depend on the disease and its severity.

2. Supportive Care: In addition to antibiotics, your veterinarian may recommend supportive care such as fluids, pain relief, and nutritional support to help your dog recover.

3. Regular Monitoring: Follow-up visits with your veterinarian are crucial to monitor your dog's progress and ensure the infection is fully resolved.

These are some of the things I use for tick preventing:

1. Bravecto Chews - A tasty treat that gives up to 12 weeks protection from ticks.

2. Centaura spray - Applies before walk and gives 4 hours protection.

Be careful not to use too many tick repellents simultaneously, as there is no research on how this might affect your dog. My vet recommended using short-term repellents in conjunction with the Bravecto chew.

Conclusion

Tick-borne diseases in dogs are a serious health issue that requires vigilance and proactive measures to prevent. By using tick prevention products, regularly checking your dog for ticks, and maintaining a tick-free environment, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog contracting these diseases. If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a tick or is showing symptoms of a tick-borne disease, seek veterinary care immediately for prompt diagnosis and treatment. With the right precautions and care, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and tick-free.

Modifications made on my van, Part 1 - MaxxAir MaxxFan Deluxe

A lifesaver during hot summer days! ☀ For both me and my dog 🐶

🌟 Hey! I just had to share how the MaxxAir MaxxFan Deluxe has completely transformed my van life. 🌟

Since installing it, my sleeping experience in the van has become so much more enjoyable. I no longer wake up sweating – the MaxxFan Deluxe keeps the temperature perfectly regulated.

One of the standout features for me is the automatic temperature control. I set my desired temperature, and the fan adjusts its speed to maintain that comfort level. This has been a game-changer for those warm summer nights when it's hard to sleep due to the heat.

Watch my video further down where I go through all the features of the fan.

Another thing I absolutely love is the dual function of air intake and exhaust. I can easily switch between bringing fresh air in and pushing stale air out, ensuring that the air inside the van is always fresh and clean. This is especially useful when I’m cooking or when the weather outside is less than ideal.

The rain cover feature is also a lifesaver. I can keep the fan running even during heavy rain without worrying about water getting inside. It’s such a relief to have continuous airflow without having to close the vent during a downpour.

What’s even better is how much my dog loves it. On hot days, I can see he’s much more comfortable with the steady airflow. It’s so important to keep our furry friends cool and happy, and the MaxxFan Deluxe does just that.

Since installing the MaxxAir MaxxFan Deluxe, van life has been so much more comfortable and enjoyable. If you're looking to improve your van’s ventilation and overall comfort, I highly recommend giving this fan a try!

GET YOURS HERE!

Underneath is a picture showing how to operate the remote for the MaxxFan Deluxe. Please note that the fan does not come with a remote, so you will need to purchase it separately if you want this functionality. You do have the same controls on the actual fan. Watch the video above where I explain more. 👆

Hope you found this post helpful! 🙏

 

How to Downsize into a Van

Transitioning from a traditional home to a van requires smart decisions and effective use of space. Downsizing can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can lead to a simpler and more fulfilling lifestyle. Here’s how you can make the most of limited space in your van. 👇

Multifunctional Items are Key

In a van, every item should serve more than one purpose to save space and add convenience. Here are some examples:

• Thermos: A thermos can be incredibly versatile. It can be used for hikes to keep beverages hot or cold, and in the van, it can double as a coffee mug or a juice glass. Personally, I downsized from having four glasses of each type to just two stackable drinking glasses and one thermos.
• Silicone Bowls: Collapsible silicone bowls are fantastic space savers. They can function as deep plates, mixing bowls, or serving bowls. When not in use, they fold flat and take up minimal space.
• Stackable and Collapsible Items: There are many excellent camping products available today designed to save space. Consider buying stackable or collapsible items. These can save a significant amount of space. Stackable items nest inside each other, reducing clutter and making storage easier.

Organizing Your Space

Effective organization is crucial in a small living area. Use transparent storage bins to store your items. This way, you can easily see what’s inside without having to open every box, saving time and reducing frustration.

Embrace Minimalism

When moving into a van for an extended period (or full-time), embracing minimalism is key. Learn how to do more with less. In the beginning this is hard, but as time progress it becomes a fun challenge. Here’s how you can start:

Question Your Belongings. Think about why you have each item, whether it serves a purpose, and when you last used it. This reflection helps in deciding what to keep and what to let go. I found inspiration from the Netflix series "The Minimalists: Less is Now." This documentary highlights how possessions take up space, money, and time, often without us realizing it. It encourages viewers to rethink their relationship with stuff and adopt a minimalist mindset.

Downsizing into a van may seem like a daunting task, but with a focus on multifunctional items, effective organization, and a minimalist mindset, you can create a comfortable and efficient living space. Embracing this lifestyle not only simplifies your possessions but also opens up new adventures and a sense of freedom. Remember, every item you bring into your van should earn its place by serving multiple purposes and making your life on the road easier. Happy travels and enjoy the journey of living more with less!

Revolut - A online bank made for explorers

Benefits of Using Revolut - Especially for Frequent Travelers

If you frequently travel abroad, having Revolut as a second bank can offer numerous advantages. Not only is it ideal for travelers, but Revolut also offers higher interest rates than most other banks, allowing you full access to your money without tying it to a locked account for years or limiting the number of withdrawals. This flexibility means that you can grow your money faster and use it whenever you wish!

Key Benefits of using Revolut:

1. Multi-Currency Accounts:

Revolut allows you to hold and exchange money in multiple currencies without high conversion fees. This is perfect for travelers who need to manage different currencies efficiently. You can convert your currency to the local currency instantly through the app without conversion fees and avoid additional exchange fees. The accounts with different currencies are all linked to your Revolut card, which will automatically withdraw from the account with the local currency of where you are. Super easy!

 

2. Easy deposits:

Deposit though bank transfers or by cards. For faster transfers, use the card and have the money on your revoult account within minutes! 

 

3. Real-Time Exchange Rates:

Revolut provides real-time exchange rates for currency conversions, helping you save money compared to traditional banks.

4. Free Global ATM Withdrawals:

With a Revolut account, you can withdraw cash for free at ATMs worldwide up to a certain limit, making it convenient to access local currency.

5. Security Features:

Revolut includes advanced security features like instant card freezing, spending limits, and real-time notifications to keep your account secure. For example, I made a purchase online with my Revolut card while abroad. Revolut sensed unusual activity and froze the card. I received an instant notification through the app and could check the activity on my card to ensure it was a legitimate purchase. I could then unlock my card instantly without any difficulties. In contrast, with my regular bank, I would typically have to wait to receive a new card by mail, which could be a significant inconvenience, especially abroad.

6. No Hidden Fees:

Revolut is transparent with its fees, ensuring you don’t encounter unexpected charges for transactions, conversions, or account management. For example, whenever you convert to another currency or purchase stocks, you will see if there are any additional fees.

7. Global Accessibility:

As a digital bank, Revolut is accessible from anywhere in the world via its app, making it easy to manage your finances wherever you are.

8. Easy Budgeting and Spending Insights:

Revolut offers tools for budgeting and tracking your spending, helping you manage your finances effectively while on the go. Personally, I don't use this feature a lot, but it's good to know about if you are traveling with a budget.

In addition to these features, you can also invest in stocks, crypto, precious metals, and more with Revolut.

Using Revolut as a second bank is highly beneficial for travelers. Consider Revolut to enhance your travel experience and simplify your financial management abroad.

If you're ready to simplify your travels by signing up for a free Revolut account, click HERE.

Winter Trip of 2023 - Part 3

The Ice Hotel: A Memorable Finale

For our last night, we wanted to end with a bang—something truly memorable: The Ice Hotel. We stayed in one of their cozy cabins and purchased tickets to tour the stunning ice rooms. The ice sculptures were so detailed, and we could only imagine the countless hours that went into creating them. We also made sure to visit the ice bar, where drinks were served in glasses made of ice. Delicious!

The temperature in the ice facilities typically stays around -7 degrees Celsius. This keeps the environment comfortable and maintains the clarity of the ice.

The Ice Hotel is best visited during winter to fully appreciate its stunning ice architecture and unique rooms. You can tour the hotel during open hours, and if you wish, you can even spend the night in one of their ice rooms! (For those who prefer a warmer experience, they also offer cabins.)

If you want to read more about the different stay options, click below:

The Ice Hotel

P.S. Dog lovers, you'll be happy to know that pets are allowed in some cabins, so you can bring your furry companion along! Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed in the ice rooms.

Winter Trip of 2023 - Part 2

Camp Ripan: Our Next Stop

After leaving STF Abisko Tourist Station, we headed to our next destination, Camp Ripan. We arrived quite late because we stopped to pick up some dog food and snacks on the way. We booked a 2-hour visit to their spa, which was very much appreciated after all the cold! The spa had saunas, ice baths, hot baths, and even a bar.

On our second day, we decided to go skiing. Although we lacked experience, it was super fun! We rented skis at the hotel, which had many well-maintained trails nearby. The colors in the clouds at sunset were breathtaking, almost like an oil painting.

For our last day before heading back home, we saw it fitting to end with something special - The Ice Hotel. Stay tuned.

Find out more about Camp Ripan by clicking the link below:

Camp Ripan 

P.S. Dog lovers, you'll be happy to know that pets are allowed in specific rooms and areas at Camp Ripan!

Winter trip of 2023 - Part 1

Exploring Abisko: Our Winter Adventure at STF Abisko Tourist Station

Last winter, we decided to explore Abisko in northern Sweden. With temperatures dropping to -30°C and below, we left our van at home and chose to stay in hostels and hotels instead, due to the low degrees.

Our first stop was the STF Abisko Tourist Station, where we spent three cozy nights. The station had a communal kitchen where we could cook our own meals. We also had access to a common fridge for all our food.

We hiked around Abisko National Park, even getting caught in a thrilling (and a bit scary) snowstorm one day! The weather was clear sky and sun when we started out, but ended with a snow storm. The trail almost completely blew away! 

There are not a lot of sun hours during winter in Abisko, and when the sun starts to set, it sets fast, so make sure you bring a head lamp when going out! 

A short walk from where we stayed was a small village where we could buy groceries. One of our favorite spots was "Lapp-portarna" (Lapporten), a beautiful natural landmark you can see in the picture below.

The best part of our trip was on our last night when we saw the northern lights. Watching the sky light up with colors was magical and a highlight of our journey.

We can’t wait to go back to Abisko this summer, this time in our van. The summer scenery promises to be just as amazing!

Find out more about SFT Abisko Tourist Station by clicking the link below:

STF Abisko Tourist Station 

P.S. Dog lovers, you'll be happy to know that pets are allowed in specific rooms and areas at the station!