As the days lengthen and the temperatures rise and the family dog or cat spends more time outdoors, there are bound to be encounters with a variety of local pests - ranging from fleas to ticks to skunks.

Unlike most types of summer pests, however, there is no preventative treatment against skunking. And, despite advertising claims to the contrary, there do not seem to be any magic elixirs that will totally and instantly remove skunk odor.

It takes hard work - and time - to completely rid your pet of skunk odor. The professional groomers at Best Friends offer the following advice for "deskunking" your pet.

Respond quickly
When your pet is skunked, quick action is the key, so plan ahead.

Before you need it, purchase a large bottle of a skunk spray product and keep it on the porch or in the garage so you can deploy it immediately if there is a skunk encounter.

Read the label carefully to be sure that the product you choose is safe when applied directly on the animal. There is a new skunk spray product offered by Nature's Miracle® that can safely be sprayed on your pet.

Tackle the odor
Contrary to popular myth, solving the skunking problem is not as simple as bathing your pet in tomato juice. In fact, professional groomers employ at least three different products in a multi-step process to get the stink under control.

• Skunk spray is an oily substance, so it is important to begin with a good degreasing shampoo. Be sure to lather thoroughly.

• Because the skunking is often mainly on the head, pay special attention to that area. Use a toothbrush or flea comb for applying the products, to get good coverage. Be very careful not to get the product into your pets eyes, and rinse the eye area thoroughly with clear water, just in case.

• Once as much of the oil has been removed as possible, lather your pet with specially-formulated "skunk" deodorant shampoo. Again, it's important to take your time and lather thoroughly.

• Using a fine comb, work out dead hair and undercoat, especially in contact areas. Reducing the volume of hair affected can also help reduce the odor, so you may want to schedule a haircut for your pet.

• Follow the bathing with a generous application of the skunk spray. Frequent re-applications over the following days will help get rid of lingering smell.

Take your time working on your pet, being as thorough with each step as possible (even if you have to hold your breath to stand near him!)

Be patient
Recognize that it's impossible to remove every trace of odor. While the most effective products can significantly reduce the smell, they may not remove it entirely. And, if your unfortunate pet has been sprayed deep in its nose, ears and mouth, the odor will linger in the sinus cavity. Finally be aware that when the weather turns humid or your pet gets wet, the smell will seem stronger. Again, the skunk spray can help.

If your stinky pet has found his way into the house and onto furniture, you will need to wash and air fabrics and bedding. Nature's Miracle® also offers an odor remover that can help take the stink out of rugs and upholstery.

Also, be aware that your pet's collar and leash will have absorbed the smell, so do not put them back on the dog until they have been thoroughly washed and aired. If cleaning and airing doesn't help, discard them.

Get professional help
Dealing with a skunked animal is a tedious, unpleasant task and you may want to consider seeking help from a professional groomer. The salon has professional products that will enable the groomer to do a thorough job and those efforts will significantly reduce the smell.

For more information about this and other pet grooming problems, call your local Best Friends. To find the Best Friends Pet Salon nearest you, go to Our Centers section of this website.