07/20/2026
My Pet Got Skunked! Is It An Emergency? 🦨
That unmistakable smell usually means one thing👃🏼… your pet had an unfortunate run-in with a skunk!
Here’s what to do:
Keep them outside if possible to avoid bringing the oily spray into your home. Trust us on this one!
Skip the tomato juice 🍅 It’s a myth and won’t neutralize the odor.
Use this odor-neutralizing mixture instead:
• 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 1–2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap
Follow instructions on the image above 👆
Call your veterinarian right away if:
Your pet was sprayed in the eyes or mouth
They are squinting, excessively drooling, vomiting, or having trouble breathing
They seem weak, lethargic, or develop pale gums after the encounter
Your pet was bitten by the skunk
Skunks are most active around dawn and dusk, so keeping pets leashed and supervised during those times can help prevent future encounters.
If you’re unsure whether your pet needs to be seen, give your regular veterinarian or local emergency hospital (us!) a call. We are happy to guide you. If you do arrive at any vet facility with a skunked pet, please call in before bringing your pet directly into the lobby.