How to get the skunk odor out of your dog's fur.

I am happy to say I have a clean, beautiful, odor-free dog after yesterday's disaster. 

As we went on our morning walk yesterday, dogs that I never knew were even in the neighborhood, dogs that couldn't see us through their fences, were barking at us. I'm sure they were telling Ransom how horrible he smelled. Ransom's head was down as he, too, knew he was the source of the worst smell ever. While we walked, I was sure that this smell would be on him for weeks. Visions of a my beautiful dog's soft, shiny black coat being shaved off were entering my mind.

So, after reading a few articles online and a frantic call to the vet at 8:01am, I locked Ransom in the sunroom (which also got hit with the skunk's spray) and took off to Wal-Mart for some frantic shopping. As I now could be considered an expert in this field, here is the sure way to rid your dog and your house of skunk odor.

Step 1 - Take 1 quart Hydrogen Peroxide, 1/4 cup Baking Soda, and 1 Tbsp. Dish Soap and mix together in a bucket. I know you may be thinking can't I use shampoo instead of dish soap? The dish soap is important. Skunk odor is an oil and dish soap is made to break down oils and grease while you wash your pans, right? So, I used Dawn - it's supposed to be "tough on grease." Put this beside your shower or bathtub and put on clothes that you can be comfortable in while wet. Then, get your dog and coax use all of your might to lift him into the shower and shut the door so he can't get out.

Step 2 - Put on rubber gloves. This is important because you do not want to get the skunk oil on your body. It helps to know exactly where he was sprayed so you can make sure to really clean that area. Turn on the shower and get the dog wet.

Step 3 - Lather the peroxide mixture into the dog's fur. Let it sit for 3 minutes. I wouldn't let it sit for too much longer in case the peroxide starts to bleach the fur. Rinse the dog off. 

That was the extent of the vet's orders and Ransom had no odor from him after this. But, I wanted to be extra sure.

Step 4 - Wash the dog using the over-the-counter skunk odor remover shampoo. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Keep your mouth closed while your dog shakes for all 5 minutes. Rinse the dog off.

Step 5 - Wash the dog using your regular dog shampoo. I actually use horse shampoo to make his coat nice and pretty. By now, your dog is getting really sick of being locked in the shower so you will probably get really, really wet.

Step 6 - Dry your dog off, and let him out of the shower. Take a shower for yourself now.

I promise, your dog will smell better than he ever has. But, that doesn't end your skunk removal process. You still have your house, which reeks. 

To be continued...