The scent of a skunk can not only be offensive to the nose, but also very irritating to the eyes and mucus membranes. The secretions contain several chemicals. One group, called the thiols, are responsible for most of the offensive odor. Others are acetate derivatives of the thiols. They are responsible for the odor, that tends to linger and become worse if the pet becomes wet.

Signs Your Sibe has been Sprayed by a Skunk

The most obvious sign is the smell. Your Sibe may roll on the ground attempting to rid himself of the smell. The eyes may water, and they may be nauseated and vomit.

Action to Take

Either use a treatment specifically formulated for use on skunk odors such as Skunk Kleen or Skunk-Off, or use the following formula:

• 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide
• 1 teaspoon liquid soap
• 1/4 cup baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

This recipe may be doubled for larger Sibes.

 

Wet your Sibe down and work the mixture through their hair. Leave it on for three to four minutes and rinse. This will generally need to be repeated several times. Be sure to throw away any excess mixture. Do NOT get any of the mixture in the eyes; as a precaution, place protective ophthalmic ointment in the eyes. Do NOT mix and store this formula, it is volatile! Throw away any residual amount.

Also note that the above mixture may bleach the hair color temporarily until the animal sheds and new hair grows in. Common antidotes like tomato juice, vinegar, or regular shampoos are not nearly as effective.

Please contact your veterinarian, if the eyes are severely affected, or the pet continues to vomit.