Saturday, August 30, 2008

Skunked... Again!!!

There’s no room for smugness on my part now. I was being so careful not to let our little Mr. Rutgar out the door without first putting him on his leash. Then, I got a bit lazy and to save my sore back, not wanting bend over, I worked instead at becoming ‘pack leader’ with Rutty and my daughter’s two dogs, Kasper and Ms. Lilly Zha Zha.
All was going well. I was so proud of my progress. The three dogs sat nicely in quiet anticipation, waiting for me to open the door. Not until all three dogs were relaxed did I step through the door myself and release them into the brisk night air… Big mistake!
Ms. Lilly trotted grudgingly out the door, undoubtidly preferring to pee pee on the bathroom carpet. Kasper was right behind her moving fast and streaking right past him was Mr. Rutgar. What I hadn’t seen was the solitary skunk crossing the yard.
Surprisingly, Kasper pulled up short. "I guess he’s finally learned his lesson after all," thought I… but, Mr. Rutgar… Well, at the last minute he ‘caught wind’ of what lie ahead and he put on the brakes. Sliding to a stop he managed to spin around and luckily, was sprayed only on his rear-end.
So, another late night doggie bath, but at least now I can fully vouch for the baking soda, peroxide and dish detergent recipe. It really does work. I have not tried the apple cider vinegar wipe down that is recommended by friends who seem to have a lot of experience with Jack Russells and skunks, but I’ve got good home made apple cider vinegar ready to try… just hope I never have to.
Your back on the leash now Rutty!