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How to De-Skunk a Dog – Tips from the Veterinarians at Croton Animal Hospital

By November 2nd, 2018One Comment

To De-Skunk A Dog 

Hydrogen Peroxide is an essential part of a ‘skunk bath’ recipe! 

Skunks live all over the place, and if your dog gets curious about one, they may end up with a face full of stink. If your pooch gets sprayed, there are ways you can rid them of the scent without buying up every can of tomato juice in the area. 

Step 1: Keep Stinky Outside 

You’ll probably want to keep your dog outside while you get it together so he doesn’t carry the smell indoors. Check his eyes; if they’re irritated or red, immediately flush them with cool water. 

Step 2: Mix up a Batch

  • 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1 tsp liquid dishwashing soap
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Wearing rubber gloves, wash your dog immediately.

Step 3: Clean and Rinse

Rub the mixture through his fur. Let it sit for a few minutes, but don’t leave it on too long (peroxide can bleach fur). 

Rinse and repeat if necessary.

Step 4: Shampoo and Dry

Wash with pet shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Towel dry. By now, he should be de-skunked and smelling sweet. 

Hydrogen peroxide for dogs should never be applied at full strength; dilute it with either water or saline.

If you get some stink on you, wash clothes by using regular laundry detergent mixed with a half-cup of baking soda.

One Comment

  • Rhianna Hawk says:

    I really appreciate your tips for getting the smell out of my dog. He went under our porch and came back out smelling like a skunk, and it’s good to know that I don’t actually need to flush him in tomato juice like you said. I’ll be sure to check his eyes, as well, to make sure he didn’t get any in them.

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