Pawspruce
Tomato juice is a myth. The recipe that actually neutralizes skunk odor is a 1:1:1 mix of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap — and it works on the dog and on the fabrics he rubbed.
The recipe
- 1 liter (about 4 cups) 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap (plain, not antibacterial)
Mix in an open container right before use. Do not store it — peroxide and baking soda make pressure in a closed bottle.
On the dog
- Outside. Keep the dog outdoors and away from the house.
- Wear gloves. Wet the coat with the mix; avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Work it in for 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Repeat if any smell remains, then shampoo as normal.
Hydrogen peroxide can lighten dark fur. It is the trade-off for actually removing the smell. Test a hidden patch first if the coat is very dark.
In the house
- Wash any rubbed bedding or throws in hot water with a pet-safe detergent.
- Wipe walls and doors the dog touched with the same mix, then a water rinse.
- Open windows and run a fan; the last traces leave with airflow.
Keeping a cat calm
Cats skunked are rarer but harder to bathe. Wrap in a towel, expose only the soiled area, and use a washcloth with the mix rather than a full dunk. Go slow; a calm cat is safer for both of you.
The peroxide and baking soda here are two of the 5 safe ingredients every pet home should keep on hand.