Pet vs. skunk: How to clear the air

Even if you think your pet is unlikely to run into a striped adversary, it’s a good idea to be prepared, because when it comes to getting rid of the stench, time really is of the essence. While dogs tend to have the biggest incidence rate, an overly territorial cat may be at risk of getting sprayed as well.

Make sure odor is your biggest problem
When your pet is hit with skunk spray, the smell can be so overpowering that it’s hard to think about anything else. But the first thing you need to do is to make sure your animal isn’t in need of veterinary care.

Skunks are known to carry rabies, and if your pet has gotten close enough to be sprayed, it may also have been bitten or scratched. So hold your breath and give your pet a close examination to make sure there are no signs of wounds.

The American Animal Hospital Association also recommends checking whether your pet has been sprayed in the face, which is, unfortunately, where dogs often tend to get hit. If your pet has taken the spray head on, rinse the eyes, nose and mouth with clean water. If, after rinsing, your pet’s eyes still seem irritated and red, you should seek veterinary attention to make sure the spray hasn’t done any damage.

Getting rid of the stench
Now that you’ve examined your dog and made sure the stench is really your only problem, it’s time to break out the tomato juice, right? Well, not quite. MythBusters actually found tomato to be less than ideal, since the skunky smell still remained beneath the more acidic one; likewise, commercial skunk remover was a less-than-perfect remedy, however both still fared better than beer or commercial sprays.

One of the most effective remedies was discovered by chemist Paul Krebaum in the early 1990s. Combine one quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, one-quarter cup of baking soda, and one-to-two teaspoons of liquid soap. If you have a large dog, you may need to add one quart of tepid water to create enough solution. Mix these items together in a plastic bowl or bucket and then use promptly, applying them directly to the affected areas of the pet, being especially careful to avoid the eyes. Let the solution sit on the fur for about five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Never store or mix these ingredients in a closed container like a spray bottle, because the rapid oxidization can cause the container to explode. Also be warned that the peroxide may cause slight bleaching in animals with dark fur.

A few lingering words of advice
Skunk spray is actually a potent-smelling oil that clings to almost any surface with which it comes into contact, making it very easy to spread. If your pet has been sprayed, it’s best to keep him outside if possible until the smell has been thoroughly washed out. You’ll also want to wear old clothes and rubber gloves during the bathing process.

Skunks are largely nocturnal, so you can minimize the risk by keeping your animals inside after dark. If your pet absolutely must go outside after the sun has gone down, it’s a good idea to go with them or even take them on a leash, especially if you know your area is prone to skunks. If your pup is unfortunate enough to get hit, remember to keep calm, act quickly, and make sure your pet is safe and healthy before worrying about the smell.