How to Remove Skunk Smell From Pets

Skunk encounters are one of the most unpleasant trials of a owning an outdoor pet. The smelly spray produced by these wild animals is intended as a strong defense against predators, and as such, it's made to linger--and offend! While time is the best cure against skunk smell and the only way to get rid of it completely, doing nothing to reduce the odor is usually not an option. Several home washing remedies can be used to mitigate the effects of a skunking.

Things You'll Need

  • Outdoor pet tub
  • Rubber gloves
  • Pet shampoo
  • Tomato juice
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Baking soda
  • Feminine deodorizing hygiene wash
  • Old clothes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wait a while before attempting anything. Keep your pet outdoors for a few hours to prevent the smell from infecting your house, and give the worst of the odor a chance to dissipate before you tackle the problem.

    • 2

      Put on your rubber gloves and run a regular bath for your pet. Giving him a thorough washing in his regular shampoo will get rid of some of the lingering liquid from the skunk's spraying.

    • 3

      Rub your pet down with tomato juice. This solution doesn't remove the odor, but it will mask it with something pleasant and make your job easier. It'll also stick around along with the skunk smell. You may want to avoid this method, however, if you have a dog with white fur, as the tomato juice will turn it pink.

    • 4

      Wait for about 30 minutes while the juice soaks. Rinse your pet clean again. Try a repeat application if necessary.

    • 5

      Wash your pet in a hydrogen peroxide/baking soda solution if the tomato juice doesn't solve the problem. Create a solution of 1 part hydrogen to 30 parts water and add 1/4 cup of baking soda for every quart. Soak your pet with this bath and a little more shampoo to lather. Rinse.

    • 6

      Apply some feminine-hygiene wash to your pet's fur as a last resort. Rub into your pet's fur, then rinse away thoroughly and immediately. Do not allow your pet to lick himself while the wash is in his fur.