Spring has sprung and with it has come the activity of these adorable little nuisances. Skunks, like many mammals in Connecticut (some of us included), greatly reduce activity during the colder months and re-emerge happy and hungry with the turn to longer days and warmer weather. They breed during February and March which results in an abundance of both adults and babies in the Spring months.
For dog owners, skunk encounters are greatly feared, and rightfully so; the stench is wretched and lingering. Thankfully, skunk encounters are rarely harmful to your pets, but how can you avoid them? And what do you do if you haven't been so lucky...
Lets start with the good part
Before we get into the negatives of our stinky friends, they do bring benefits with their presence as well. Skunks will eat just about anything, adapting to different vegetation and environments. By doing so they help control populations of invasive plant and insect species, keeping your lawns and gardens free of larvae and ticks. They are also omnivore scavengers and help the ecosystem by feeding on carcasses and remains of other animals.
As often as you do see one, there many many more you do not. Other than during breeding and raising their offspring, they are solitary creatures, liking to keep quiet and to themselves.
Personally, I think they are absolutely adorable. I love their waddle walk and their distinct markings. At a young age they can even be domesticated as pets and de-"skunkd" as to not spray in your household, making intelligent, playful pets. (Note: not legal in all states)
Why do skunks spray?
Spraying is the skunks defense mechanism. If they feel startled, or threatened, their first instinct is to run. Second, they do a little tap dance with their front feet. However if the threat persists, they will turn their back to their predator, rearing their tail into the air, some species even demonstrating a beautifully balanced handstand. This is when, if you haven't already, YOU RUN !!! Hidden under their tails are 2 small glands that produce a foul substance. These glands hold about only 4 ounces of oily liquid, so the skunk makes it count by controlling direction and distance, AIMING directly at its assailant. Young skunks develop spraying abilities at around 3 months of age, so even if its small and cute, keep a respectful distance.
Many other species have the same anatomy. If you are aware of your dog having anal glands, these are actually the same thing! Believe it or not, dogs will also release a horrendous smelling substance in situations of fear!
Skunks are nocturnal. Keep an eye out on night walks and early mornings.
Although you may spot one in the winter, when temps briefly go above 30 degrees, Skunks spend about 100 days during the winter hibernating. However, in the early months of the new year, they will begin to emerge to feed and mate. Similar to raccoons and opossums, skunks are mainly active during the night and early mornings. As they mainly are looking for food, keep garbage cans securely closed.
Be cautious on evening and morning walks. During these next coming weeks, consider checking your backyard with a flashlight before letting your dogs out or keeping them leashed instead.
They also tend to live in dens, or den like areas, such as under porches, decks, or sheds, so keep a particular eye out if you have an area that would attract a family.
You've been SKUNK'D ! What now?
Yes the smell is some of the worst you've ever smelled. That initial gasoline, followed by the all too familiar putrid skunk. Depending on how close your pet got, you may have quite the mess on your hands. Luckily, if they did not come into physical contact with one another, the smell is really all that there is to worry about and there is no need to seek veterinary attention.*
If you're dog did indeed get into a scuffle and sustained injuries, then there is always a concern for rabies. Unfortunately, skunks are a primary carrier of Rabies in our area (if you are new to CT, Welcome! We are endemic for Rabies!) and can potentially expose your pet. In this case, try to clean off your dog BEFORE bringing them to the vet. Your vet may be treating patients with respiratory conditions, which the smell would be more offensive and dangerous to, as well as its lingering potential in the clinic.
If you have a wounded skunk or one who has succumb to wounds in your area, please treat it with respect and call animal control for assistance to properly and safely have it removed.
So....tomato juice? Beet soup? How do you get rid of that smell? Not quite...
There are some commercial cleaners that do work rather well, in particular the Nature's Miracle line.
However, the classic go to is a homemade concoction of common household items.
To remove skunk spray odor from skin, fur, or fabric
Mix in an open container:
1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide
1/4 cup baking soda
a few drops of DAWN liquid dish soap.
Wearing gloves is recommended
Work into the affected area, rinse, and reapply.
Multiple washes may be needed.
More on Skunks
I leave you with some links to feed your new interest in these strange little creatures, including some further guidance on handling encounters.
HAPPY SPRING !
This blog is not monitored by a veterinarian, but expresses the knowledge and opinions gained in over a decade in the field. All suggestions should be verified with ones own veterinarian and each pet should be considered individually. This blog is not run in connection with receiving commission of sales for any recommended products or services.
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