There aren't many things more smelly and disgusting than a dog being sprayed by a skunk. The stench usually lasts a long time and can spread throughout the room. Usually, the smell is the biggest problem. However, skunk spray can cause some minor (or even major) health problems in affected dogs. You can avoid all of this by knowing how to treat a dog that has skunk spray.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Treating a Dog Sprayed by a Skunk
Step 1. Understand the chemistry
The foul-smelling part of skunk spray comes from chemicals called thiols. This terrible-smelling oil makes the smell "stick" to the sprayed dog. Unfortunately, this odor cannot be removed by simply soaping and washing it.
Also, forget the myth about tomato juice because it can't get rid of the oil either
Step 2. Mix the homemade solution to remove the oil
There are special chemicals used to remove materials that contain thiols. You can dilute this ingredient at home, so it's safe for your dog. The following formula will suffice to clean a small or medium sized dog. Double or triple the amount used for very large dogs. Mix:
- 4 cups 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon liquid hand soap
Step 3. Put on gloves
The solution can irritate your skin, so you should wear gloves when mixing and using it. You may want to wear gloves as well to keep the skunk odor from transferring to your hands while treating your dog.
The solution may irritate your dog's skin as well, especially if your pet tends to be sensitive to skin infections or other skin conditions. In this case, consult your veterinarian before using it
Step 4. Use this solution outdoors
In addition to avoiding the smell from spreading throughout the house, also because the peroxide content in the solution can cause stains on wood, fabric furniture and other household appliances.
Step 5. Rub your dog with the solution
Rub your dog gently, avoiding the eyes and inside the ears. Leave the solution for 5 minutes but not more than that. Rinse your dog thoroughly as the peroxide can cause discoloration of your dog's coat.
Repeat the process if the smell has not gone away
Step 6. Dry your dog
Make sure you dry your dog well before letting him into the house. You should also keep an eye on him during this period and see if your dog shows any other complications from skunk spray.
If your dog is soaking wet within a week or so, you may smell a little more skunk odor. Try not to bathe the dog for a week
Step 7. Do not store the solution
The solution will lose its effectiveness when stored, so be sure to use it once you are done making. Do not save the solution for future use if you make too much.
Step 8. Use a skunk deodorizing spray or shampoo
There are shampoos specially formulated to remove skunk odor from dog hair. However, they are more expensive than homemade solutions, and there is no guarantee that they will work well. Your veterinarian may recommend this shampoo instead of a home solution if your dog has sensitive skin so it's not recommended to use this solution.
Method 2 of 3: Watch for Complications in Dogs
Step 1. Watch for eye irritation
The spray can cause irritation if it comes into direct contact with the eyes. If your dog is showing symptoms of irritation-frequent rubbing, red and watery eyes, puffy eyes, squinting or difficulty opening his eyes-try washing your dog's eyes with running tap water. And call your vet right away.
Step 2. Watch for respiratory irritation
Dogs may inhale the spray, which will cause irritation to the respiratory system, including the nose. This can cause sneezing, runny nose and drooling. Call your vet if you notice these symptoms after a case of skunk spray.
Step 3. Proceed with injecting the rabies vaccine
Although skunk spray does not contain the rabies virus, skunks are very large carriers of rabies. Whenever a dog encounters a skunk, there is always the possibility of being exposed to the virus. Consult a veterinarian after your dog has been sprayed to discuss getting a rabies vaccine to make sure your pet is safe.
Step 4. Watch for symptoms of lethargy, weakness or loss of appetite
A very rare but also very serious condition called Heinz body hemolytic anemia can occur in dogs sprayed with skunks. This is an emergency matter. A veterinarian is needed to treat a dog with this condition that could possibly result in death. Signs of anemia include pale mucous membranes, a fast beating heart, gasping for air, or a weak pulse.
In more gradual attacks, the dog will appear lethargic, weak and lose appetite. These signs appear several days after the dog is sprayed by the skunk
Method 3 of 3: Reducing the Chances of Meeting Skunks
Step 1. Take good care of the dog
If you have a large, open backyard, consider partially fencing the area to keep your dog out of harm's way and keep him away from skunks.
Step 2. Use a tight-fitting trash can lid
Skunks like to forage in human waste mounds, so use a proper trash can cover. This will prevent odors from escaping from the trash can and attracting skunks and other animals.
Step 3. Purchase a skunk repellent chemical
You can buy skunk repellent chemicals online or at a store that sells garden supplies to protect your garden from skunk invasion.
Step 4. Close all open places around your house
Skunks may try to live under decks or other building frameworks around your home. To avoid this, cover all open spaces large enough for a skunk.
Step 5. Contact your local animal control officer
If you have a skunk problem in your yard or a neighbor's, contact your nearest animal control officer. Depending on where you live, they may set traps or offer to come and tackle the animal if you have set your own trap.
Tips
- Some people report that skunks like to dig in the soft soil in their gardens for worms and maggots, but fencing the area with marigolds can discourage this habit.
- Placing cotton swabs soaked in coyote urine around the house can also deter skunks, raccoons, and opossums.
