Cornwall Veterinary Hospital-Client Information Files

De-Skunking Formula

By Dr. Belinda A. Moran, DVM

Dogs love to chase things.  Mysterious things in the yard.  Sometimes they even chase things that aren’t even there.  I’ve heard of that.  But when they get interested in those black and white little creatures especially in the Fall months of September, I am the one that gets all the calls late at night and early in the morning on my emergency line.  “Doctor Moran???”   They always say.  And I always say “Yes, what is your emergency”.  Expecting the worst, especially at 11:00 p.m. or at 5:00 a.m.  or whenever I get these calls.  But sometimes I hear a big pause on the other end of the line.  And then I start to get the idea.  And inevitably the family starts to explain how Mipsey was let outside for her nightly or morning constitution and found a new “friend”.  One that decided to leave a lasting and “ever-smelling” impression on her.   And they have no idea what to do.

Now it’s not really an emergency to wake me up for because the local emergency clinics have technicians that can answer questions about skunk formula’s but people call me all the time anyway and I’m always glad to help I admit.  You all know who you are and I love you all and hope your dogs smell better.  But I’m hoping to minimize the amount of calls I get and maybe get a little more beauty rest this season!!  I’ve got two kids 3 and 5 and I need it.

Skunks spray in self defense only.  They make a purring noise and spray an oily substance called mercaptan.  If your pet is sprayed directly in the eyes, it IS an emergency and must be seen by myself or your regular veterinarian right away.  The mercaptan can cause blindness and irritation that is severe, although usually temporary.   Now about the, ahem, ODOR.  Let’s not forget that.  Your dog may smell for QUITE sometime if you do not act quickly. A fresh spray smells so bad it burns your nose. If you do not act quickly the smell CAN last for nearly 24 months!   Whoa.
Here’s the bathing formula.  Mix in an open bucket or bowl:

Good luck people and good luck dogs and skunks everywhere.  It isn’t easy being a skunk you know.  Dogs are chasing you and here you are just trying to mind your own business or trying to forage for a little food to feed your family and a car comes along and “whoosh”, “poof”.   Another near miss and now the whole neighborhood knows where you have been.  Just follow your nose.