Well, we established a "backyard wildlife habitat" in our 50 x 150 yard in Evanston and perhaps it's succeeded a bit too well as last nite our dog got sprayed for the third time by a skunk. We were quick enough to grab a flashlight this time and saw it, and it was pretty clear it's living in our bushes or somewhere near by. Can you give any tips on living with it respectfully? Because of the rain today, I haven't been out to (carefully) explore where its burrow might be, but I'd like to try to peacefully coexist. Is that possible? Dumb dog will learn eventually, I think, to leave it alone. We were thrilled to see it, and daughter adores skunks. Tips, please.

This response was provided by Darryl Coates, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, District Wildlife Biologist.

Unfortunately the only way to live with a skunk is to give them a lot of room. Skunks tend to mark their dens and territories with scent to let other animals know that they are there. And with all due respect, smart or dumb, dogs never, never, never learn to leave skunks alone. Moreover, skunks are known carriers of rabies and the chance of being bitten and/or sprayed puts you at risk. Therefore, I recommend that you have the animal(s) removed from your property. Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators that work in your area may be found on our web site on the 'Find a Professional' page. No easy answers here. Thanks for writing.