Pet owners are always on the look out for homeopathic, natural or herbal treatments for their pet, preferring it to the medicines found in prescription drugs. Large urban areas feature vets that specialize in the holistic approach, and this is often a better match for many dogs and their owners.

Herbal, holistic or natural remedies are generally more closely aligned with coat and skin ailments. Dog shampoos, conditioners and topical treatments for hot spots are herbal or natural in composition. Common ingredients found in natural hair and skin care lines contain oatmeal, chamomile, oil of lavender, aloe vera pulp, olive oil, grape seed extract, Echinacea and vitamins C, D and E in their more natural forms. These treatments with a more natural approach have far better outcomes over standard prescription medications or hair and skin products and leave the coat and skin soft, supple and free from the soapy residues which lead to itching and other allergic responses.

Botanical calming and soothing products are being used more and more relieve the stress and anxiety many dogs experience. The remedies come in many forms, spays, topicals, shampoos or cleansers. Aromatherapy items or topical applications made for dogs will use oil of lavender as well as other essential oils such as chamomile and carrier.

Herbal flea, tick, parasite and heartworm remedies are safe for both puppies and adults. Some breeds are more sensitive to traditional de-worming, making herbal alternatives a safe and effective choice. One thing to remember is that many herbal remedies are used on a continuous basis as opposed to one or two times a year as the more traditional remedies are. This more natural approach is gentle and easy on the dog's digestive tract and it stops reinfestations from happening between routine treatments.

Bach flower remedies utilize special plants to treat a group of specific health issues. Not all emotional or stress issues can be treated with Bach flowers, but there is a significant amount of dog ailments that are successful controlled and treated using the flowers. Because they are natural and safe you do not need be concerned about accidental overdose or injuring your dog by using these products. Those who support the use of Bach flower remedies generally utilize the flowers that come in a liquid form to calm and de-stress, causing happier, healthier dogs.

Chronic ear infection in breeds with long, drooping ears can be very troublesome. An herbal remedy will dry up the ears and keep the bacteria from reforming inside the ear. Oftentimes this type of remedy will use a dropper to put the herbs closer to the treatment area one or two times a day until the infection is healed. Sometimes treatment continues for a short time to ensure the tissues heal properly and prevent reoccuring flare up immediately after the first infection is cleared. For some dogs the treatment can take several months but the chance of re infection is minimal, especially if the ears are kept plucked and dry.