Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Dog was sprayed by skunk on Thursday and started acting weird today

I’m really hoping to get some advice here. This past Thursday, my dog Max had a run-in with a skunk and came out on the losing end, smelling absolutely terrible. I thought I took care of it by giving him a thorough bath with a special skunk odor remover, and he seemed fine for a couple of days. But today, he’s been acting really strange—more lethargic than usual, not interested in any of his favorite toys or treats, and just generally not his usual energetic self. He’s usually bouncing off the walls with excitement, but today he’s just lying around and seems sad. I'm worried that maybe there’s more going on than just getting skunked. Could there be any health issues related to the skunk spray that I should be aware of? Has anyone else experienced something like this with their dog? Any advice would be greatly appreciated—I’m really concerned about my poor buddy.

Answer:

Hello! I'm sorry to hear about your dog's recent encounter with a skunk. It's understandable to be concerned when your pet starts acting differently afterward. In some cases, the smell can cause stress or agitation, which might explain the behavior change. However, there are other possibilities to consider.



First, ensure there's no lingering skunk oil on your dog's skin or fur, as it can cause irritation. Consider giving your dog a thorough bath using a mixture of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap to neutralize any remaining odor. Be sure to avoid the eyes and rinse thoroughly.



If your dog is showing signs like lethargy, disorientation, vomiting, or difficulty breathing, these could indicate more serious issues such as respiratory irritation or, in very rare cases, skunk spray toxicity. In such a situation, it's crucial to seek veterinary care promptly.



Keep an eye on your dog's appetite and energy levels, and watch for any unusual symptoms like excessive drooling or sneezing. If your dog continues to seem off or you notice any worrying signs, it's best to have them checked out by a vet.



I'd recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They can provide a more thorough assessment and guide you on the next steps. Take care, and I hope your furry friend feels better soon!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Did we make the right choice euthanizing my dog?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Does anyone know what this mark on my cats ear is?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat Transdermal Hyperthyroid Medication and Human Contact
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Did I make the right decision euthanizing my kitten with FIP?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links