Everyone hates it. It smells up our properties and our cars. The aroma, if you can call it that, is enough to give us headaches in more ways than one. Our animals chase them, and sometimes they come back smelling worse than the creature they were chasing. What is that creature you ask?
Nature's Smelly Defense
It is the well-known, dreaded, smelly skunk. Skunks are unique animals that, as we know, defend themselves by spraying their predators with a putrid-smelling liquid. Why do our animals chase these smelly creatures? No one knows for sure, but when our animals do chase them, they usually return to us smelling like the skunk, and for some reason, they seem happy about it. Skunks are mainly active at twilight, dawn, or during nights with a full moon.
Skunk Warning Signs
Skunks do not automatically spray their predators. There are warning signs such as hissing, stamping their feet, or raising their tails. A skunk can spray up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) with accuracy.
Home Remedies for Skunk Spray
When your dog or cat gets sprayed with that unforgettable skunk aroma, there are home remedies you can use to get rid of the smell from your pet and your clothes. The tale of using tomato juice is simply that—a tale. Instead, you can use everyday household items to solve the problem.
Removal Procedure
- Use rubber gloves and wear old clothes.
- Check the animal for bites or scratches, and contact a vet if injuries are found.
- Time is of the essence; the longer the spray stays on, the harder it will be to remove.
- Apply eye lubricant to protect the animal’s eyes.
- If bathing indoors, open a window for ventilation.
Home Remedy Recipe
In a plastic container, combine the following:
- 1 quart hydrogen peroxide
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/2 tsp liquid soap
- Add lukewarm water if needed for larger dogs.
Mix well and immediately apply to the dry coat of the dog or cat. It is crucial not to get your pet wet ahead of time—apply the mixture directly to the affected areas. Massage deeply through the entire coat, avoiding the pet’s eyes, ears, and mouth. Let the solution sit for at least 5 minutes or longer, then rinse well with lukewarm water. Repeat if necessary, and dry your pet thoroughly. The peroxide will not turn your black dog platinum blonde, though it may discolor your clothes.
There are commercial products, such as Skunk Off spray or shampoo, that break up the oils in the skunk spray.
Author: Diane Black