Skunk spray is harmful to babies, but only when it has come into direct contact. Both humans and animals that have been sprayed in the face may experience symptoms of nausea, vomiting, eye irritation and difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you or your baby are exhibiting any of those severe symptoms. Otherwise, the problem can be treated with some thorough cleaning and ventilation. The smell should subside in a few days. If you are worried about the skunks in your area, call Skunk Control.
Skunk Behaviour and Spray
Skunks are unfortunately very common in Ontario. As omnivores, they feed on insects, rodents, and the plants we grow in our gardens. Skunks appear black, with two white stripes on their backs. The average skunk measures up to 3 feet long and has a big bushy tail. Skunks are most active at sundown and sleep through most of the day. In the wild, they build dens under rocks and within fallen hollow trees. In urban areas, they like to dig under decks, porches, sheds, steps, and patios. Females especially create dens in the spring when they need a safe place to nurse their young.
If there is a skunk in your area, there is always the risk that you get sprayed. Be on the lookout for skunk activity and stay away. As a warning sign, skunks will stomp their feet, turn around, and lift their tails toward their targets before spraying. The smell is not harmful to you or your baby, but the spray itself can be dangerous. Give your baby a bath immediately. Pour 2 to 4 cups of baking soda in a hot bath and let your baby soak for about 20 minutes. Then, give him or her another bath with soap. If the spray got into your baby’s eyes, rinse them carefully with water.
Keep Skunks Out
Make your property safer for playtime by excluding the structures you have in the yard. Dig a trench along your deck or shed, then screw a thick steel mesh into its sides. Bury the mesh. If you suspect that a skunk is living on your property, install a one-way door to the entrance of the den. This will let the skunk out safely but prevent it from coming back. Give the skunk about 2 weeks to leave. Then, replace the door with mesh. You can also encourage the skunk to leave by leaving a radio on near the den.
Hire a Local Skunk Remover
The best thing you can do to keep you and your baby safe from skunks is to hire a skunk remover. A professional can inspect your property, remove the animals humanely, and keep them out by pest-proofing the yard. At Skunk Control, we provide permanent solutions to skunk problems. Our technicians are thoroughly trained in wildlife removal and have several years of experience. We are so sure of our capabilities that our wildlife-proofing services come with a 2-year warranty. Call Skunk Control for skunk removal services in the GTA.