What is what to do when a dog gets sprayed by a skunk?

Okay, here's information on what to do if your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, in Markdown format with links:

My Dog Got Skunked! What Do I Do?

Getting sprayed by a skunk is an unpleasant experience for both you and your dog. Here's a guide to help you handle the situation:

1. Contain the Situation: Immediately bring your dog outside to prevent the skunk spray from getting all over your house. Do not let your dog inside until you have cleaned it. Try to keep the dog from rubbing against furniture or rolling around.

2. Protect Yourself: Wear old clothes, gloves, and possibly eye protection. The skunk spray can irritate your skin and eyes.

3. Assess the Situation: Determine where on your dog the skunk sprayed. Avoid getting the spray in your dog's eyes.

4. Flush the Eyes: If the spray got in your dog's eyes, flush them immediately with cool, clean water. Use a gentle eyewash if possible. Consult your vet if irritation persists.

5. The Skunk Odor Neutralizing Bath: The most effective solution is not tomato juice! A chemical reaction is needed to break down the skunk oil. Use the following formula:

   • 1 quart (32 ounces) of 3% hydrogen peroxide
   • 1/4 cup baking soda
   • 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap (like Dawn)

   Important: Do not use this mixture if your dog has any open wounds, as hydrogen peroxide can delay healing. Never mix and store this solution in a closed container, as it can cause it to explode.

6. Application:

   • Wet your dog thoroughly with lukewarm water.
   • Apply the skunk odor neutralizing solution, being careful to avoid the eyes.
   • Work the mixture into the fur, making sure to reach the skin. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
   • Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

7. Repeat if Necessary: If the skunk odor is still present, repeat the baking soda wash.

8. Normal Shampoo: Wash your dog with regular dog shampoo to remove any residue from the peroxide and dish soap.

9. Dry Thoroughly: Use towels to dry your dog as much as possible. You may use a hair dryer on a low, cool setting, but be careful not to overheat your dog. Air drying is also a good option, weather permitting.

10. Clean Everything: Wash any towels, clothes, or surfaces that may have come into contact with the skunk spray separately.

11. Follow Up: If your dog experiences any irritation, redness, swelling, or difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Additional Considerations:

• Prevention: Consider keeping your dog on a leash during walks, especially at dawn and dusk, when skunks are most active.
• Skunk in Yard: If you have a skunk frequently visiting your yard, contact animal control or a wildlife removal service for advice.

Important Subjects:

• Understanding the Skunk%20Odor
• Neutralizing%20Skunk%20Spray effectively.
• Dog%20Shampoo types and uses.
• Hydrogen%20Peroxide%20Use%20on%20Dogs - precautions.
• Seeking professional Veterinary%20Care when needed.