Help, what do I do?! My dog, Max, seems to think he's a professional skunk hunter, and now his mouth reeks of that awful skunk spray! We've tried everything we can think of: brushing his teeth multiple times, using dog-friendly mouthwash, and even letting him chew on those dental treats that are supposed to help with bad breath. Nothing is working! I’m worried about him ingesting anything harmful and I can’t stand the smell anymore. He’s acting like his usual playful self, but every time he comes near me, the skunk odor is overwhelming. Does anyone have experience with this? Are there any special products or homemade solutions that you've tried that actually work? I’m desperate for some advice here!
Thanks for reaching out with your question! Dealing with skunk spray can be unpleasant, but let's get your pup smelling fresh again. When a dog is sprayed directly in the mouth, it can be particularly uncomfortable for them, leading to drooling or even slight stomach upset.
A safe and effective at-home remedy is to prepare a mixture using one quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1–2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap. Gently rub this mix around the outside of your dog's mouth, being careful to avoid getting it inside or near their eyes. Rinse thoroughly with water. For inside the mouth, you can try offering your dog some water flavored with a bit of low-sodium chicken broth to encourage them to rinse out their mouth naturally.
Keep an eye on your dog for any signs that might require immediate veterinary attention. These include persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or continuous drooling beyond what you'd expect from their usual post-spray discomfort.
If symptoms persist or you're concerned about their health, consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. We're here to provide you with guidance and peace of mind!
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