10/12/06 Skunk Relief

My son's border collie, Dally sent a group of picnickers scurrying recently when the black and white pup burst unexpectedly out of the bushes looking for all the world like a rambunctious skunk. With the skunk population blossoming they are becoming more of a nuisance for both rural and suburban dwellers So if your fido happens to run a foul of a skunk, listen up, I have a new recipe for odor removal. Now I am not big on bathing a dog in tomato juice, it never seems to cut the smell, and one good shake and red is everywhere& so while I can't say I am excited about this new remedy, it is about time someone has come up with a good alternative. A chemist has developed a skunk rinse using 1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon liquid detergent. Let it sit for five minutes and if necessary reapply. Keep it out of your dogs eyes and never store this combustible mixture. It also has a tendency to bleach, so instead of hunting with a black lab beware the partner at your feet might be a golden.