The studies I have read about the product says that deer can not smell it. I have had deer walk extreamly close to me while I have been using it and they never seemed to have picked up on an odor from it either. Your right about the pad emiting whatever odor is put on it, thats why I like to use it as a heated doe in heat lure. All I know is it works for me and I will continue to use it. The biggest draw back I have found with it is that the pads dont last long enough but maybe I' m just cheap! LOL CDH