Here in San Antonio, Texas we see all kinds of different insects and rodents. Some of these pests are frequently sighted by homeowners while others are only seen occasionally. Hopefully you are lucky enough to not see skunks very often on or near your property. If you are seeing skunks more often than you would like to you are probably smelling them as well. The smell of a skunk is something that can be hard to get rid of. Today A Five Star Termite & Pest Control is going to give you some helpful information about skunks.
Why Does Skunk Spray Smell So Bad
Let’s start talking about why skunks smell so foul. Skunks themselves do not smell; it is their spray that actually creates the pungent aroma. Skunk spray contains thiols. Thiols are sulfur-based organic compounds. When thiols get into the air they let off an extremely acrid scent. Skunk spray also contains thioacetates. These thioacetates are dormant until they come into contact with water or humidity. Once the thioacetates mix with water or humidity the smell will last for days. If you are lucky the smell of skunk will simply be in the air around you. Unfortunately, you may find that you, your pets, or your home end up getting sprayed by a skunk at some point in your life. Luckily A Five Star Termite & Pest Control has some tips for you on how to get rid of any skunk smell that you may encounter.
Dog Sprayed on Face By Skunk?
Most commonly, dogs will be sprayed on or around the head. Not only does skunk spray smell extremely foul, it will cause nausea or vomiting if swallowed and will act like tear gas if it gets in the eyes. If your dog gets sprayed directly in the eyes or mouth, seek immediate veterinary treatment. Since pets frequently spend time outside they are very likely to get sprayed by a skunk if you have skunks on your property. The second that your pet comes back into your home you will notice their pungent aroma. You will want to get rid of the smell as soon as possible. We recommend that you make a mixture of 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide; 1 teaspoon baby shampoo; and ¼ cup of baking soda. Then lather this mixture into your pet’s fur and allow it to sit for five minutes. After five minutes rinse and wash your pet. Repeat this process until the smell is gone.
How to Get Rid of Skunk Smell?
Next we are going to address what to do if you or your family members are sprayed by a skunk. The first thing that you should do is hope in the shower immediately. Then find deodorant soap or a grease-cutting dish detergent and a shampoo made for oily hair. Use the deodorant soap or grease-cutting dish detergent for your body and the shampoo for your hair. You will likely find that you still smell like skunk at this point. You will want to take a baking-soda bath. Fill your bath with hot water and pour 2 to 4 cups of baking soda into it. Soak in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes. Then rinse your body to remove any residue from the baking soda. Repeat all of these steps if necessary.
Wildlife Pest Inspection, Control & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
We hope that you never need these tips on how to get rid of skunk smell from you, your family members, or your pets. If you have a skunk that repeatedly is coming onto your property you will need some help in getting rid of them. A Five Star Termite & Pest Control can come out and help you get rid of them. Contact us today!
