You’re in for a stinky surprise if your dog has a run-in with a skunk. The smell is not just unpleasant, it’s stubborn. But fret not, it’s not impossible to get that smell out of your furry friend. This comprehensive guide aims to help you do just that.
In this article you will find:
– A detailed guide to de-skunking your dog
– A list of items you’ll need
– A step-by-step de-skunking process
– Additional tips and tricks for managing skunk smell
– Frequently asked questions
Key Takeaways
– Skunks spray as a defense mechanism, and the smell can be very hard to remove.
– Your first step should be to keep your dog outside to prevent the smell from spreading indoors.
– Commercially available products can be effective, but there are also home remedies.
– The process may need to be repeated for complete de-skunking.
Understanding Skunk Spray
Skunks are generally peaceful creatures but when threatened, they spray a foul-smelling liquid from their anal glands as a defense mechanism. This spray contains sulfur compounds or thiols, which give it a pungent, hard-to-remove smell. Your dog’s fur absorbs these thiols, which is why the smell lingers.
OneTopDog provides a comprehensive guide on how to prevent your dog from being sprayed by a skunk in the first place. Prevention is always better than cure.
What You’ll Need
Time is of the essence when dealing with skunk spray. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to remove the smell. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rubber gloves
- Old clothes (that you don’t mind getting stinky)
- A leash and collar
- Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)
- Baking Soda
- Liquid Dish Soap
- A large mixing bowl
- A sponge or washcloth
- Towels
The De-Skunking Process
Here’s a step-by-step process to get the skunk smell out of your dog:
Step 1: Protect Yourself
Before you start, put on your rubber gloves and old clothes. The last thing you want is to get skunk smell on you.
Step 2: Keep Your Dog Outside
To prevent the smell from spreading indoors, keep your dog outside. Put them on a leash to ensure they stay put.
Step 3: Prepare the De-Skunking Solution
In a large bowl, mix together:
– 1 quart of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide
– 1/4 cup of Baking Soda
– 1 teaspoon of Liquid Dish Soap
This solution helps to chemically alter the thiols in the skunk spray, neutralizing the smell.
Step 4: Apply the Solution
Using a sponge or washcloth, apply the solution to your dog’s fur. Be careful to avoid the eyes and mouth. Let the solution sit for about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Rinse and Repeat
After 20 minutes, rinse your dog thoroughly with warm water. If the smell is still strong, you may need to repeat the process.
Additional Tips and Tricks
While the de-skunking process will do most of the work, here are some additional tips to help manage the smell:
- If you can identify where your dog was sprayed, focus your efforts there. Often, it’s the face and neck area.
- If the spray got into your dog’s eyes, they may be irritated. Use a saline solution to gently rinse them out.
- You can use commercial skunk odor removers. OneTopDog has reviewed some of the best skunk odor removers on the market.
- The smell may linger in your home. Here’s how to get skunk smell out of your house.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If My Dog Gets Sprayed By A Skunk?
If your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, keep them outside to prevent the smell from spreading indoors. Check for injuries, and if their eyes are irritated, rinse them with saline solution. Then follow the de-skunking process outlined above.
Can Skunk Spray Harm My Dog?
Skunk spray is not usually harmful, but it can cause irritation, especially if it gets in the eyes or is ingested. If your dog shows signs of distress, consult a vet immediately.
How Long Does Skunk Smell Last On Dogs?
Without treatment, skunk smell can last up to a month on your dog. However, with proper de-skunking, you should be able to remove the smell within a few days.
In conclusion, dealing with a skunk-sprayed dog can be a smelly hassle, but with the right tools and approach, it’s manageable. Remember, the key is to act quickly and thoroughly to neutralize and wash off the skunk spray.
