#Middlebury #Skunk #Dog
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: We have a big fenced backyard and have no problem letting our dog, Ace, out to roam. However, for the first time, Ace ran into a skunk! Now I’m trying to get rid of that horrible skunk odor, with no luck. What can I use to clean his fur? And how do I keep skunks off my property? – Suzie H., via email
DEAR SUZIE: I agree, skunk encounters are pretty awful. And when a dog gets a good soaking from the skunk’s defensive spray, it can be very tough to get out of its hair. The American Kennel Club’s website (www.akc.org) has some expert advice on getting rid of the skunk smell on dogs. Rule No. 1: Do not bring the dog in the house if you can avoid it.
The AKC recommends a homemade solution to break up and remove the odiferous oil that makes up skunk spray: Mix a quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide (available over the counter at the local pharmacy) with two teaspoons of mild dish soap and a quarter cup of baking soda. This mixture will start foaming immediately, so have Ace ready. (Don’t wet down his fur yet.) Rub the foamy solution into his coat, soaking it completely. (Avoid getting into his eyes or ears.) Leave it on for five minutes, then rinse. Discard any unused solution.
To keep the skunk from coming back, determine where it’s getting into your yard and when. Skunks raising young like nesting spots like wood or debris piles. Open trash cans or compost piles are attractive foraging spots. Skunks are most active after sundown or in the early morning hours. Ace may be fine in the yard during the day, but you should accompany him on potty breaks before sunrise or after sundown to prevent another stinky encounter.
Send your questions, tips or comments to ask@pawscorner.com.
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