When Your Hunting Dog Meets a Skunk: A Tried-and-True Solution

Ah, the great outdoors! It’s where I find peace, whether I’m hiking, fishing, or hunting with my trusty canine companions. If you’re anything like me, you probably have a four-legged friend who’s as enthusiastic about hunting as you are. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of owning various breeds, from Brittany Spaniels and German Shorthaired Pointers to Labradors. But no matter the breed, one outdoor hazard remains constant: skunks.

The Secret Sauce: Dawn, Baking Soda, and Hydrogen Peroxide

1. Start with a Dry Dog: You might think hosing down your dog will help, but don’t! Water spreads the skunk oil, making things worse. Start with your dog dry.
2. Mix Up a Magic Potion: Combine Dawn dish detergent, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide into a paste.
3. Work it In: Massage this mixture into your dog’s fur, making sure to get it down to the skin, especially in the affected areas.
4. Sensitive Spots: For the delicate areas around the eyes, nose, and face, use feminine wipes. They’re gentle yet effective for these sensitive spots.
5. Let it Sit: Allow the mixture to sit on your dog’s fur for at least 10 minutes before washing it off.
6. Rinse and Repeat: Wash your dog as usual, and if the smell persists, you can repeat the whole process.

And there you have it, my tried-and-true method to de-skunk your hunting dog. It’s saved me from countless stinky situations and kept my hunting trips enjoyable. I hope it does the same for you!