Heading outside, you can quickly notice the smell of a skunk lingering in the air. This same stench can permeate your dog’s fur if they have been directly sprayed. This is one reason it’s a good idea to keep your dog on a leash outdoors and be vigilant about your surroundings so you can steer clear. Skunks are typically out and about from dusk to dawn, so be especially mindful if taking your dog out during these times.
If your dog does happen to get sprayed, don’t fret. First and foremost, restrain your dog on a leash and try to clean them up before letting them inside. If you’re out on a hike or at the park and have to drive them home, do your best to wipe down their fur with clean towels and cover your seats before they get in.
De-Skunking Your Dog
If your dog was sprayed in the face, check to see if their eyes are irritated. Gently flush them with cool water or a dog-safe eyewash solution.
Next, you’ll want to focus on the rest of their body. Skunk spray contains oils that stick to your dog’s fur (and everything else it touches), so you need to break down these oils to eliminate the smell. Keeping de-skunking shampoo on hand is a good idea if you live in an area where skunks are prevalent.
You may have heard that tomato juice is a good alternative, but this home remedy generally just covers up the smell; it doesn’t neutralize it. Instead, try this combination:
- 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide (a higher concentration can irritate your dog’s skin)
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap
Mix all ingredients together, then apply it to your dog’s coat. Use rubber gloves to protect your hands and rub them all over, being careful not to get the solution in your dog’s eyes or ears. After you’ve lathered your dog’s fur, rinse the homemade shampoo out. Hydrogen peroxide can bleach their fur, so don’t leave it on for too long. Repeat the process if needed, then wash your dog using regular dog-friendly shampoo and rinse thoroughly to leave them smelling fresh and clean. Towel dry to remove excess water.
If you don’t have hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap, you can also try diluting white vinegar with water and using that, as vinegar can eliminate odors. Tossing your clothes in the washer with a small scoop of baking soda can help remove the skunk smell from your belongings.
Keep Your Dog Safer
Training your dog to follow commands so it stops or returns to you if you notice a skunk outdoors can help. Give these creatures a wide berth and head away from them so they don’t feel threatened. As previously mentioned, keeping your dog on a leash whenever you are outside can help you maintain more control.
Should your dog be sprayed by a skunk, take steps to neutralize the odor as quickly as possible to keep it from spreading to carpet, furniture, clothing, and other surfaces. Does your dog need a good freshening up after their de-skunking? Schedule a grooming appointment at Lake Wylie Pet Resort! Contact us today to reserve your dog’s spot.