This time of year, you come across the smell more often than usual. Skunks are out finding love in the early months of the year to have babies (kittens!) in March and April. The milder the winter, the earlier they get out.

So what do you do if your pet is sprayed?

First, keep your sprayed pet outside.

You’ll probably want to keep your pet out of the house until they’re washed post-skunk to keep the smell out of the house. If you have to bring them in for the bath, take them directly to that room and turn on any fans in there you can!

If their eyes are red or irritated (indicating spray in their eyes), flush them will cool water immediately.

Second, mix your wash solution.

The most reliable pre-made solutions are often stocked by local veterinarians. They know what works. They know. Bless them and their experience with this problem.

If you don’t have anything on hand, mix 1 quart of 3-percent hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, 1 teaspoon liquid dishwashing soap. Do not make this mixture ahead of time or mix it in a closed container. It can explode your bottle.

Wear gloves, wash your dog or cat immediately, and don’t get any solution in their eyes.

Third, clean and rinse thoroughly.

Rub the mixture in (again, avoid their eyes!), then rinse thoroughly. Do not let it sit in their fur very long.

Fourth, shampoo time!

Now for normal bath time. Lather, rinse thoroughly, and dry.

Repeat as necessary.

Did you get some of the skunky love on you? Ewww, sorry. You can wash your clothes with your normal detergent and appropriate amount of baking soda.