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Skunk Spray Remedies

i Skunk With A Pressure Washer image by caraman from Fotolia.com

If your pet comes in contact with a scared skunk, the skunk naturally will attempt to defend itself by releasing a noxious oil-based spray in the vicinity of the animal he considers to be a threat. In addition to smelling strongly, skunk spray can irritate the eyes and lungs of your pet, so fast action and clean-up is a necessity. Try to keep your animal outdoors for the process, or contain him to a bathtub or laundry room to reduce clean-up.

Step 1

Remove your pet from the vicinity of the skunk as soon as possible. A skunk can spray repeatedly, so getting your animal out of target range is vital. If possible, cover him with a towel or blanket to avoid coming in direct contact with the skunk spray yourself.

Step 2

Rinse your animal’s eyes and mouth with water or saline, such as contact lens solution. The skunk spray can irritate eyes and even cause temporary blindness. Get help holding your pet still if necessary. Small animals, like rodents, are subject to squirming and biting after being sprayed, so take precautions to protect yourself.

Step 3

Locate the concentrated areas of your pet’s body at which the spray was directed. This can be difficult, but if the spray is on only a specific area, it makes it easier to remove.

Step 4

Wash your animal gently with water to remove as much of the spray as possible.

Step 5

Make a solution using one quart of hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup of baking soda, two tablespoons of a grease-fighting dishwashing liquid and one gallon of water. Rub the solution onto your animal and allow it to soak for 10 minutes before rinsing clear. Discard unused solution.