Hello Wild Side Readers,
Did your dog or cat get a little too curious about that black and white critter visiting the backyard? Now you have a pet that reeks to high heaven and you are looking for the best way to de-stink-ify your beloved furry friend. If a cat, dog, or even a house has been unfortunate enough to receive a dose of skunk spray, here is a good recipe to use:
- 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of liquid soap
Mix this solution together and use immediately. Do not mix it in advance and place it in a closed container, as the released oxygen may cause the container to explode. Scrub the pet with the solution, wait roughly 5 minutes, and then rinse. Avoid contact with your pet’s eyes and other sensitive areas. Feel free to scrub, rinse, and repeat if needed. This solution can also be used to remove skunk spray from hard surfaces. Good luck and here’s hoping your dog learned its lesson this time….
For more information on skunk odor removal, check out this fact sheet from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Marne Titchenell
Wildlife Program Specialist