iStock.com

If your dog has a chance encounter with Pepe Le Pew, would you know what to do?

Skunks are everywhere—in the country and in the city—and if your dog gets sprayed, there are a few ways you can rid him of the scent without using your entire ketchup supply to do it.

Over-the-counter products like Nature's Miracle Skunk Odor Remover, are a quick fix, but if you don't have a de-skunking product on hand, try the following:

Step 1: Keep Fido Outside

Keep your dog outside after he's been sprayed so he doesn't carry the smell into your house. Check his eyes and if they're irritated or red, immediately rinse them with cold water.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Use rubber gloves to wash your dog immediately after he's been sprayed. Use a mixture of:  

• 1 quart, 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 teaspoon liquid soap

Do not save this mixture or make it ahead of time, as it could explode if left in a bottle. If you don't have all these ingredients on hand, use vinegar diluted with water.

Step 3: Clean and Rinse

Rub the mixture through your dog's fur, but don't leave it on him too long (peroxide can bleach his fur). Rinse him thoroughly.

Step 4: Shampoo

Next, wash your dog with a mild pet shampoo and rinse him thoroughly. By now, he should be de-skunked and smelling sweet.

Bonus Tip: If the dog rubbed some of the stink on you, you can rid your clothes of the smell by using regular laundry detergent mixed with a 1/2 cup baking soda.

Updated July 31, 2008