What Happens When My Dog Gets Sprayed by a Skunk

What Happens When My Dog Gets Sprayed by a Skunk?

Oh no! Your four-legged friend just encountered a skunk and got sprayed. You may assume that it is the best action to rush your dog inside and put them in the bath. Keep them outside! The skunk oil on your dog’s coat will linger in the air until they are clean. It is not a pleasant smell at all. A little about skunk spray: It is produced by the anal glands of the skunk to defend against predators. Many people do not realize that skunks can spray this liquid as far as 15 feet!

Follow these steps if your dog gets sprayed by a skunk:

  1. Check your dog’s eyes. Are your dog’s eyes irritated? Flush them out with cool water.
  2. Remove oils from your dog’s coat as quickly as possible. We recommend that you bathe your dog outside. Remember, you do not want to bring the skunk oils inside the house! There are top-rated skunk shampoos that are made specifically for dogs. Opt for one of these products for more success. Remember to wear rubber gloves! Rinse your dog thoroughly. You may need to complete the process more than once to ensure your dog is extra clean.
  3. Towel dry your four-legged friend.
  4. Do not forget to wash your clothes! If any skunk smell gets on you during the bathing process, wash your clothes in regular laundry detergent and ½ cup of baking soda, or find a skunk odor that works well in washing machines.

It is hard to train your dog to stay 15 feet away from skunks! You never know when a skunk will show up. The best thing you can do is be prepared by having all the necessary cleaning products on hand if a skunk sprays your dog.