Re: [RC] The dreaded Skunk-u-pine! - Sisu West Ranch
The chemistry of de-skunking.
The bad smelling stuff from a skunk is a mercaptan
(butyl if I remember correctly). Mercaptans are the sulfer analog of
alcohols. In common with many sulfer compounds (H2S= hydrogen sulfide is
the bad smelling stuff in rotten eggs.) they stink.
Now the way to get rid of it is to convert it to a
different chemical. The bleach, and the alkaline (the sodium
bicarbonate)hydrogen peroxide oxydize it and thus get rid of it.
There are numerous other oxidzing compounds that
would also work. These two are perhaps the most easily found in most
homes. The peroxide is quite a bit easier on the dog than the
bleach. Another interesting thing about hydrogen peroxide is that it also
works well in acid solutions. Some receipes may say use vinegar with
it.
Which ever system you use, do wear eye protection
and wash yourself with soap and water afterwards. Rinse the dog very
well.
Ed
better living through chemistry
Ed & Wendy Hauser 2994 Mittower
Road Victor, MT 59875
