Help! My dog just got sprayed by a skunk and it hit his eyes—what can I do to help him right away?

Earlier this evening, while we were out for a walk, my dog unexpectedly got sprayed by a skunk and some of it hit his eyes. He seems really uncomfortable, rubbing at his face and squinting a lot. I’ve read that skunk spray can be quite irritating. What can I do immediately to help soothe his eyes and alleviate his discomfort?

Answer

Your dog was sprayed by a skunk and is experiencing eye irritation as a result, which is causing discomfort such as rubbing and squinting.

  • Rinse your dog's eyes with saline solution immediately to dilute the skunk spray.
  • Consider giving them a bath in a skunk odor remover to reduce lingering smell.
  • Monitor for signs of persistent irritation or discomfort and seek professional advice if needed.

When a dog gets skunk spray in their eyes, it can be irritating and cause them to rub or squint. To help alleviate their discomfort, you can gently flush their eyes with a saline solution or clean water to dilute and remove the spray. Be gentle and careful during the process to ensure their safety and minimize stress. If signs persist or worsen, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended for further care.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I flush my dog's eyes safely?

    Use a saline solution or clean, lukewarm water to gently rinse the eyes, aiming to remove the irritant without causing trauma. Avoid using high pressure streams, and be gentle.

  • What if my dog's symptoms persist?

    Persistent symptoms such as redness, excessive squinting, or discomfort should be evaluated by a vet to rule out damage and ensure proper treatment.

  • Is there a safe way to remove skunk odor from my dog?

    A mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap is commonly used to neutralize skunk odor. Be sure to avoid direct contact with the eyes during application.

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