The Skunk Funk

Wow, what’s that smell? Great! Your dog just got skunked, now what?

Skunks do not see or hear very well and are very slow-moving, so they spray as a form of defence and protection. Skunks can spray up to 15 feet, so be aware.

It is a good idea to wear gloves to bathe your pet and wash or throw out towels/clothing etc. afterward.

If your pet gets skunked there are products specially designed to rid the smell, such as “Skunk Off,” which is available at your veterinary hospital, there is also a home remedy you can try:

• 1L of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide
• 1/4 cup of Baking Soda
• Dash of Dishwashing Liquid

Mix ingredients and then apply them to a pet. Let sit 10 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

1. If a pet’s face has been “skunked” use a sponge to apply. Cautiously avoid contact with eyes.
   Please note that repeat applications may be required to neutralize the skunk odour completely.
2. Here are some things you may not be aware of if your pet gets skunked.
   It is common for pets to be sprayed in the face. If you suspect this is the case, flush your pet’s eyes with clean water and seek veterinary attention to ensure the spray has not harmed your pet’s eyes.
3. Check your pet for wounds – bites or scratches that may have been acquired during the skunk altercation. If found, seek veterinary care as they may require medical attention. Skunks can carry and transmit Leptospirosis, Rabies or Distemper thorough bites and contact with the skunk’s infected bodily fluids.

Making sure your pet is up to date on vaccines can help protect from these diseases skunks can also carry ticks and fleas, so ensure if there are skunks in your area, that your pet has parasite prevention on board, not the parasites.

Be in the know, so your pet does not get in a “Skunk Funk.”

If you have any questions, give us a call at 905-853-4706.