Run Into A Skunk? Wethersfield Has This Advice

WETHERSFIELD, CT — The Wethersfield Animal Control branch of the local police department issued some advice Wednesday that, truly, stinks.

But it is important advice to follow, nonetheless.

The department issued a warning about the month of February, skunks and what that means if you're taking your dog out.

Anyone who has ever owned a dog knows of the pitfalls of a skunk-spray-dog world and the anxiety level that brews when the skunk's signature smell is noticed upon exiting the house to take your dog out.

"February is skunk breeding season," wrote the WPD via social media. "Before you let your dogs out, make a little noise and give skunks time to move out of your yard."

This is the time of year where motorists frequently will see (and smell) the after-effects of a skunk losing a battle with a motor vehicle.

But when that skunk battles a pedestrian or a pet, well, the winner is the one with the resemblance to Pepé Le Pew.

Still, skunk encounters can be minimized without creating a big stink, according to the WPD.

"If you come face-to-face with a skunk, stay calm and talk softly to let him know you're there. Skunks have poor eyesight," police wrote. "Skunks are very sweet-natured animals and don't want to spray you.

"Go about your business and avoid startling them."

The department went on to tell folks what happens when a skunk is about to spray and, when any of the warning signs are seen, they should turn tail before the skunk lifts his/her tail.

Among the signs are stomping their front feet; turning their backs on you; standing on their front legs; then letting off one smelly, natural-born chemical.

Should Fido encounter Pepé Le Pew, there are some things to do — namely a vigorous wash of dish soap/peroxide/baking soda paste (with baking soda eliminated for hairless animals/humans).

The department's animal control division also tells folks to avoid littering, as skunks frequently get cups and containers stuck on their heads, prompting a harrowing intervention from animal control staffers.

One concern to watch out for is the possibility of rabid skunks, something the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection says should be avoided at all costs.

DEEP officials say if you see a skunk acting strange and, even, approaching you and your dog instead of running away, move away slowly, don't try and handle them and call your local animal control officer.

For more information on skunks in Connecticut, click on this DEEP link.

For more information on dealing with a "distressed" skunk, click on this DEEP link.