How to Deodorize a Skunked Dog

Beat the skunk stink with this simple remedy recipe.
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There's not much more stinky than a dog who's been hit by a skunk's musky spray. Veterinarians and groomers no longer recommend the classic tomato juice bath. This updated remedy works best on fresh skunk spray, so for the sake of your nose and to make the deodorizing process even easier, lather it onto a freshly sprayed dog as soon as possible.

Wearing old clothes and gloves, bring your dog into a secure bath area and thoroughly wet his fur with water. Check his body to see if he has gotten any skunk spray in his eyes or mouth, which can be dangerous. If he has, he should be examined by a veterinarian.

Mix the peroxide, baking soda and dish soap. The mixture may froth or bubble a bit when the peroxide and baking soda mix. This effervescence helps cut the odor and oils from the skunk oil. Immediately lather this mixture onto your dog's fur, being careful to avoid eyes, nose, ears and mouth areas. Don't let your dog lick himself while the solution is on his fur.

Carefully rinse the peroxide solution from your dog's coat completely, ensuring no residue is left behind on his skin to cause irritation. If he skunk scent remains, mix another batch of the solution, apply it and rinse it out again until the scent is gone. Wash your dog with his regular shampoo after rinsing out the peroxide solution to condition his coat and give him nice-smelling fur.

Tips

  • Groomers warn that this solution may temporarily lighten dark-coated dogs. Be sure that you do not get the solution on your clothing, as it may lighten and bleach fabric.

Tips

  • Groomers warn that this solution may temporarily lighten dark-coated dogs. Be sure that you do not get the solution on your clothing, as it may lighten and bleach fabric.

Items You Will Need

  • 1 quart hydrogen peroxide
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon hand-washing dish soap
  • A bottle of your dog's regular shampoo
  • Old clothes
  • Gloves