Remedy for Deskunking Dogs

It can be a rather stinky situation when your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, but fortunately there are several cost-effective home remedies that can be whipped up from common household items. These methods are inexpensive and will help to neutralize the odor and deskunk your pet.

  1. Precautions

    • Use rubber gloves when washing your skunked dog to prevent the scent from rubbing off on you.

      If your pet has an unfortunate encounter with a skunk, first check to see if your dog's eyes are red or irritated. If so, immediately flush them with cold water.

      Also, make sure you keep your dog outside while cleaning him to prevent the skunk smell from getting into your home and on your favorite things.

    Baking Soda and Soap

    • An effective cleaning solution to remove the skunk smell can made by mixing 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 tbsp. of liquid soap in a large bucket. Apply the mixture all over the dog and let it set for five minutes. Clean and rinse the solution off of your dog and immediately follow up with a thorough shampoo.

    White Vinegar

    • The use of white vinegar is perhaps the simplest method of skunk odor removal. Soak your dog in a vinegar and water bath, or simply soak a sponge with vinegar and rub it into your pet's fur, making sure to stay away from delicate areas like the eyes and mouth. Let it set for 10 minutes and follow up with a strong shampoo.