Question:

Help, my dog stinks! How can I get rid of this skunk smell?

A:

There are many special products on the market, but this simple home remedy developed by a chemist should work. It works by chemically neutralizing the unpleasant-smelling compounds in the skunk spray.

1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide

1/4 cup baking soda

1 teaspoon of liquid detergent

Put all the ingredients in an open bowl or bucket and immediately apply the mixture to your dog’s coat – the chemical reaction between the ingredients will remove the smell from your dog and it won’t last long. Go through your dog’s coat, making sure it goes all the way to the skin. Avoid your dog’s eyes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water afterwards, being careful not to let the solution get into your dog’s eyes.

Do not store the mixture and do not prepare it in advance. If you put it in an airtight container, it will explode and only work when freshly made.

Your dog may still have a slight odor; keep him away from furniture and carpets for a few days until the smell is completely gone.