You can learn a lot about skunks when your dog gets sprayed directly in the face. For example, did you know that what skunks spray with is actually an oil? Therefore if you try to wash it off and actually sticks even more. So that is your first step when your dog gets skunked is to not use water.
Last fall our dog got sprayed in the face while we were out of town (he was at doggy daycare also known as grandpa and grandma’s house) and so when we came back we had a crash course on de-skunking. The Grandparents had an experience with this before with their own dogs so they at least had the de-skunking shampoo. So here’s what we learned about de-skunking.
How to de-skunk your dog in 25 easy steps
(I’m only semi-kidding about the 25 steps. It isn’t exactly 25 steps but you do have to do this over and over again to get rid of the smell. It just takes time.)
Step one: do not use water.
We already went over the step but it bears repeating – it is so important to not use water first.
Step two: keep your dog outside.
The smell can transfer.
Step two: gather old towels.
Step three: use a commercial shampoo specifically made for getting rid of skunk smell.
Usually, you apply like normal shampoo but leave it on for ten minutes to soak and help break up the oil.
Read the directions carefully.
Try: Nature’s Miracle Skunk Odor Remover
Step four: try a home remedy after the commercial shampoo.
Mix 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap.
Use immediately and discard any leftover solution. Apply to your dog and leave on for ten minutes. Then rinse.
Step five: bathe your dog in regular pet shampoo.
Try: Burt’s Bees for Dogs All-Natural Oatmeal Shampoo
Step six: dry dog completely. Use multiple towels and don’t re-use them or you might transfer the smell back.
Step seven: check your dog for lingering smell.
Most of the smell should be gone. But if your dog got sprayed directly in the face like ours you might need to continue to the next step.
Step eight: get your dog wet and cover in baking soda. Rub the baking soda into his fur.
Try: Sodium Bicarbonate, Baking Soda
Step nine: pour white vinegar over your dog. It should foam. Let sit for as longs as your dog will let you, 5-10 minutes.
Try: 365 Everyday Value, Organic Distilled White Vinegar
Step ten: rinse and dry with old towels (but not the same ones as before, you should throw those away.)
Step eleven: repeat steps seven through ten every other day or so for up to two weeks.
It took that long for our dog to smell normal again.
Ultimately, it takes time to get rid of the skunk smell of your dog has been sprayed. It’s best to not let them get sprayed in the first place but as we know that is not always possible. Good luck!