February through March is mating season for striped, hog-nosed, and hooded skunks, and that translates into "skunk smell." The stink occurs when males try to court females who may not be "in the mood."
From the dog's perspective, the urge to pursue these critters equipped with some of Nature's strongest defenses often seems to be simply irresistible. Skunks are notorious for their anal scent glands, which they can use as a defensive weapon. These glands produce the skunk's spray, which is a mixture of sulfur-containing chemicals such as thiols (traditionally called mercaptans), which have an offensive and nauseating odor.
Here's the de-skunking recipe you need for an at home remedy for any sized dog:
- Combine 1/2 quart hydrogen peroxide, 1/8 cup of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon liquid dishwashing soap in an open container.
- Draw a tepid bath and put your dog in it.
- Apply the solution liberally throughout your dog's coat and suds him up well (to the skin).
We do offer a skunk bath as an add on service to a regular Homecoming or Deluxe Bath which includes a Degreasing shampoo alongside a special skunk off shampoo that will help eliminate the "skunk smell". Just a reminder, once the dog gets wet, you may smell the scent until it is fully phased out.
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