Our dogs sometimes have the tendency of putting their noses where they shouldn't. If they come by a skunk and decide to get too close, the skunk may feel threatened and spray them with a foul-smelling yellowish liquid produced in their glands.
First and foremost, know that there is no point in giving your dog a bath as you would usually. Just the opposite – water may actually worsen the smell. And contrary to popular belief, tomato juice is inefficient in getting rid of the smell. Here are some steps you should follow that will help:
1. Put on some old clothes you no longer care about;
2. Bring your dog outside to avoid stinking up your home;
3. Use products specifically designed to eliminate skunk smell – these can be found in veterinary clinics. You may also make your own at home using peroxide, baking soda, dishwashing liquid and water, but this solution may lighten your pet's coat (find the full recipe at the end of the article);
4. Let the product sit in your pet's fur for five minutes;
5. Rinse thoroughly;
6. Dry off your dog using old towels;
7. If the odour persists, repeat the process a second time.
Possible complications
There are a number of possible complications that may arise if your pet is sprayed in the face.
If the liquid gets into your dog's eyes, he may develop conjunctivitis. It is important to consult your veterinarian to treat the infection.
If your dog is sprayed in the mouth, he may develop an oral infection, which may cause abnormal drooling and vomiting. If you notice these symptoms or the formation of ulcers, quickly consult your veterinarian.
While this complication is extremely rare, your dog may contract rabies if bitten by a skunk. If your dog is not vaccinated against rabies, bring him to the veterinarian.
Do not hesitate to head to your veterinary clinic if you notice your pet behaving unusually after an encounter with a skunk.
Avoiding the worst: not as complicated as you would imagine
To avoid this type of incident, all it takes is a few precautions. First, do not let your dog out at night, especially during the spring, which is mating season. Also make sure your pet is vaccinated against rabies and fill up any holes beneath your deck or patio, places where skunks like to hide. Finally, empty your trash bins regularly: just like raccoons, skunks love to eat what's inside.
Skunk Smell Remover Recipe
- 1 liter of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 2 tablespoons dishwashing liquid (Sunlight brand works best)
- Enough water to make as much solution as you need