What to do if your dog gets skunked

It's that time of year again when skunks are making their rounds.  Did you know that in addition to being smelly, skunks can pose a danger to your pets?  Skunks are notorious carriers of the deadly Rabies virus and have been known to habituate urban areas so it is extremely important that your pet is up to date on it's Rabies vaccination. 





So what do you do if you dog is sprayed by a skunk?  The best idea is to keep a bottle of Nature's Miracle Skunk Odor Remover on hand.  This is a product that we carry that you apply to your pet and let dry without bathing.  If you do not have a bottle on hand, you can easily mix up a batch of skunk odor remover with common household items.  Here is the recipe:

Skunk Odor Removal Formula 

- 1 quart fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide

- 1/4 cup baking soda

- 1-2 tsp. of liquid dish soap 

For large dogs, add one quart of tepid water to ensure coverage. 

Mix the above ingredients together.  Bathe animal outdoors if possible.  Apply the formula to the pet working deeply into the fur and allow it to set for five minutes.  Be careful not to get into pet's eyes.  Rinse well and repeat if necessary.   

Hints

-The mixture must be used promptly and will not work if stored for any length of time.

-Do not store in a closed container

-The pet's fur, as well as clothing, towels, and carpeting may be bleached by the formula.

-For maximum effectiveness, do not bathe pet with any other soap beforehand.

-Amanda Ward, R.V.T.

Kutter Pet Care Center