How to Treat a Dog Attacked by a Skunk

The inquisitive nature of dogs makes them prone to getting into trouble. If that inquisitiveness leads to a run-in with a skunk, the dog is likely to emerge from the encounter covered in the thick, yellow and malodorous secretion that skunks spray when they feel threatened. The primary component of this secretion is a substance containing sulfur known as mercaptan. If your dog has had a run-in with a skunk, first check it for injuries. Then roll up your sleeves and get to work removing the skunk smell from your dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Latex gloves
  • Water
  • 32-oz. bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
  • Bucket
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1 tsp. Dawn dish detergent
  • Cotton balls
  • Sponge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine if your dog was bitten or injured by the skunk. Skunks can transmit rabies through their saliva. Consult with your veterinarian immediately to determine if your dog needs a rabies vaccination booster.

    • 2
      Check your dog's eyes for signs of irritation.

      Inspect your dog's eyes for signs of irritation and excessive watering. The head is the most likely target of a skunk attack. Some dogs may also retch and vomit after encountering a skunk. Flush your dog's eyes and mouth with clean water. Extreme reactions may require veterinarian attention.

    • 3

      Put on latex gloves and find a good area to wash your dog. Outdoors is best if weather permits, because the job can get messy. If this is not an option, use the tub in your bathroom with the door closed and window open.

    • 4

      Pour a 32-oz. bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide in a bucket and add 1 cup of baking soda and 1 tsp. of Dawn dish detergent. Mix them together well.

    • 5
      Wash your dog thoroughly with the mixture.

      Place cotton balls in your dog's ears to protect them from getting wet. Wet your dog's coat with lukewarm water. Soak a sponge in the mixture inside the bucket and use it to lather your dog's coat, ensuring the hair is well saturated. Avoid getting the mixture gets in your dog's eyes. Let the mixture set it in your dog's coat for 10 minutes.

    • 6

      Rinse the mixture off using lukewarm water. You may need to repeat the process several times to remove any lingering odors.