Skunk Remedies: How to get rid of the Skunk odor?

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Skunks are mammals that belong to the family Mephitidae and order Carnivora. They are known for their ability to secrete a very foul odor especially when they are threatened. There are about 12 species of skunks which are divided into four genera namely Mephitis, Mydaus, Spilogale and Conepatus. The Mydaus genus is commonly seen in the Philippines and Indonesia while other genuses are found in America. What are the skink remedies?

All animals have their defense mechanisms- even us humans. For skunks, they have their defensive spray in times when they feel threatened. Skunks can spray a strong and foul odor to pets, human and even cars. The odor can stay on any object it comes in contact with for a long time which is very disturbing to those who smell it.

Skunks have two sacks located at both side of their anus. These sacks house a yellow colored foul smelling oily liquid called musk. There’s about a teaspoon of musk on every sack. A teaspoon does not sound much but skunks have the capability to spray the musk multiple times with this amount. Skunks release the musk in the form of mist or stream of liquid and can shoot it up for about 20 feet.

Aside from the odor, the musk can even stun a victim. It can cause temporary blindness, nasal irritation, watery eyes, and nausea. For victims with asthma, the musk can even cause difficulty in breathing.

Current interventions in skunk odor eliminate the old belief of burning down the clothes to permanently eliminate the disturbing odor. Current interventions neutralizes the odor while at the same time reduces cost because the materials being used can be found inside your home. Below are few suggestions.

1. Vinegar. When a skunk sprays musk on your clothes, do not burn them down. Simply soak them over night in undiluted vinegar and then wash them the next day with soap. You can even rinse the clothes in a fabric conditioner.

2. For skunk odor that sticks well to the car, brick siding and wood deck, you can use chlorine bleach to oxidize and neutralize the problem.

3. When a skunk attacked your dog, rinse your pet in a 50:50 dilution of vinegar and water and then proceed with the routine bathing. You can use detergent to remove the oily nature of the musk. End the bathing with clean water.

4. When going out camping, you can prepare an anti skunk spray. Simply mix one quart hydrogen peroxide, one box of baking soda and two table spoon of dawn dish detergent. Place it in a spray bottle and use it in case of contact with skunk musk. Spray the solution in the odorous area and let it stand for 20 minutes before rinsing.

With these simple home remedies, you can sure deal with skunk odors without having a headache!