Mr. Skunk Has Fumed My Pooch!
On the beautiful summer days everyone loves to get out and frolic outdoors with their pets. This also sometimes means encounters with the local inhabitants. Unfortunately, that may include an occasional encounter with that stinky skunk. Sadly, there is no magic elixir that will totally and instantly remove skunk odor. It takes hard work, and time to completely rid your pet of skunk odor.
These are a few steps to follow if your pet gets skunked!
First and foremost, RESPOND QUICKLY... When your pet is skunked, quick action is the key, so it's important to plan ahead. Before you need it, purchase a large bottle of a skunk spray product, like Nature's Miracle, and keep it on the porch or in the garage so you can deploy it immediately if there is a skunk encounter. Read the label carefully to be sure that the product you choose is safe when applied directly on the animal.
Contrary to the old wives' tale, tomato juice isn't a complete solution to the skunking problem. In fact, professional groomers sometimes use at least three different products in a multi-step process to get the stink under control.
- Skunk spray is an oily substance, so it is important to begin with a good degreasing shampoo. Be sure to lather thoroughly.
- Because the skunking is often mainly on the head, pay special attention to that area. Use a toothbrush or flea comb for applying the products, to get good coverage. Be very careful not to get the product into your pet's eyes.
- Once as much of the oil has been removed as possible, lather your pet with specially-formulated "skunk" deodorant shampoo. Again, it's important to take your time and lather thoroughly.
- Using a fine comb, work out dead hair and undercoat, especially in contact areas. Reducing the volume of hair affected can also help reduce the odor, so you may want to schedule a haircut for your pet.
- Follow the bathing with a generous application of the skunk spray. Frequent re-applications over the following days will help get rid of lingering smell.
You must be patient
It’s impossible to remove every trace of odor. While the most effective products can significantly reduce the smell, they may not remove it entirely. When the weather turns humid or your pet gets wet, the smell will seem stronger. Again, the skunk spray can help. If your stinky pet has found his way into the house and onto furniture, you will need to wash and air fabrics and bedding. Nature's Miracle® also offers an odor remover that can help take the stink out of rugs and upholstery.
Your pet's collar and leash will have absorbed the smell, so do not put them back on the dog until they have been thoroughly washed and aired. If cleaning and airing doesn't help, throw those things away. It’s just as easy to go pick up a new collar and leash.
Go get professional help from your Groomer
Dealing with a skunked animal is a long, tedious, unpleasant task and you may want the help of a professional Dog Groomer. Your Groomer has professional products that will enable her/him to do a thorough job and those efforts will significantly reduce the smell. There are also home remedies your Groomer may know of to help you with your skunk odor problem. Don’t forget to ask for a recipe!
