If your pet risks getting skunked during its outdoor adventures, stock Skunk-Off (available at most pet stores), which you can use as a spray or a soak. Or give dogs a bath in tomato juice.

If it's a sticky, oily mess that's the problem (like gum, tar, or motor oil), use baby oil to loosen any clumps, then clip the ends of the fur if necessary. After the baby-oil treatment, use a liquid dishwashing soap (Dawn, Palmolive, and Dove are gentle enough) to rinse off anything that remains. Never use paint-removing products or cleaning fluids on a dog — the harsh chemicals will burn the animal's sensitive skin.