If you come across a skunk, it is best to calmly walk away to avoid being sprayed. Skunks will only spray if they feel threatened. Pets are commonly sprayed because they are curious and do not recognize the danger. Here is a recipe for an effective way to remove the smell of a skunk from yourself, your clothing, or your pet.
Taking a bath in tomato juice will not break down the oils in skunk spray and get rid of the smell. Spraying citrus juice, perfume, or Febreze will not work either. Instead, combine 1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup of baking soda, and 1 or 2 teaspoons of dishwashing liquid in a bucket and mix well.
If you have been sprayed and it got in your eyes, flush them immediately with water. If the spray is on your body, give yourself a sponge bath using the solution described above. Be careful not to get any of it in your eyes. You can also use it to wash your hair. When you have finished, rinse it off in the shower. You may have to repeat the process to get rid of the smell completely.
You can also use this solution to clean your clothes if they have been sprayed. Wear rubber gloves and scrub the clothes in a bucket. The solution may bleach the fabric a little.
If your pet has been sprayed, clean it outside, if possible. Cover your pet’s eyes and work the solution into its fur section by section. Leave it on for several minutes to soak in, and then rinse with a hose. You may need to repeat this a few times to get rid of the smell.
The solution is unstable, so you should use it right away and not attempt to store it. If you have any left over, dilute it with water and pour it down the drain while running water from the faucet.
