How to Remove Skunk Smell from Pets and Homes

As any pet owner that has ever had their pet sprayed by a skunk can tell you, removing the skunk smell from your pet, or even from your house, can be a challenging ordeal. I have done a lot of research on this topic and thought I would share with all of you my top suggestions for getting rid of the smell of skunk once and for all.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. The best method to rid your pets of the odor is to mix 1 quart hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon dish washing liquid. Wash your pet thoroughly with this mixture. **Do not get this mixture in the eyes, mouth, nose or on open wounds** If you must do their face, use a cloth and apply gently avoiding these areas. Rinse thoroughly and follow with pet shampoo.

2. This same mixture can be used to clean items in your home, but be warned that it may bleach fabrics and other items. Always test in inconspicuous spot first.

3. For carpets, baking soda or Arm & Hammer Pet Fresh will work well. Just sprinkle on and vacuum it up.

4. Open windows whenever possible to air the home out.

5. Change air filters in furnaces if the heat or air conditioning is on so that you don't recirculation the odor back around the house.

6. Vicks Vapor Rub under your nose will help you tolerate the smell until it dissipates.

7. Roasting coffee grinds on the stove or in the oven will help neutralize the smell in the home.

8. You can also use essential oils or other spices, like cinnamon, to help neutralize odors in the home.

9. Be patient, the smell will subside in a matter or days, sometimes in 1-2 weeks.

[laryb]

on 9/22/2009 All those things work but are not as effective in completely removing the odor like doggiCleen skunk spray. By bathing the animal you spread the skunk oil through the fur which just compiles the problem. The acid from the tomato juice tends to dry out the dogs skin which can lead to other problems. doggiCleen skunk spray is better for the dog’s skin because it doesn’t dry it out. It’s what my vet uses and recommends and it comes with a money back guarantee. I am a dog lover myself and I also highly recommend it.

[luv2blog]

on 8/17/2008 Never had to deal with this before but it's good to know what to do if it comes up. Thanks for the tip.

[imagery]

on 8/15/2008 Good advice! I have always hear to bath your dog in tomato soup which sounds idiotic to me. I have friends who have used the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda method.