Dog Heatstroke: What Every Lowcountry Dog Owner Needs to Know

The Lowcountry is known for its sunny skies and steamy summers—but while we may enjoy the heat, it can be extremely dangerous for our pets. Dog heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency that can develop quickly and escalate even faster. At Shuler Veterinary Clinic in Mount Pleasant, SC, we want to help you recognize the signs, act fast, and—most importantly—prevent heatstroke from ever happening.

Whether your dog loves to play at the beach, go for long walks, or simply lay in the yard, it’s essential to understand how heat affects their body and what steps you can take to keep them safe.

Dog Heatstroke: What Causes It—and Why It’s So Dangerous

Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat to cool off. They rely on panting and limited sweating through their paw pads to regulate their temperature, which means they can overheat rapidly—especially in humid conditions like we often see here in coastal South Carolina.

Common triggers of dog heatstroke include:

  • Being left in a hot car (even for just a few minutes)
  • Vigorous exercise in hot or humid weather
  • Lack of shade or water during outdoor time
  • Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs and Pugs), due to their short facial conformation, overheat quickly
  • Young puppies or senior dogs with less temperature tolerance

Heatstroke can cause organ failure, brain swelling, and death within minutes. This is not just “a little overheating”—it’s a true emergency.

Watch this video to learn more about why your dog pants, and when you should worry!


Dog Heatstroke: Early Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore

Knowing the early symptoms of dog heatstroke can save your pet’s life. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Rapid, heavy panting or difficulty breathing
  • Bright red or pale gums and tongue
  • Excessive drooling or thick, sticky saliva
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Lethargy, confusion, or wobbliness
  • Collapse or seizures

If your dog shows any of these signs, act fast. Move them to a cooler area, offer small amounts of water, and call us at (843) 884-4494 immediately. Quick action is critical.

Dog Heatstroke: What to Do in an Emergency

If you suspect your dog is experiencing heatstroke:

  1. Move your dog into an air-conditioned or shaded area immediately.
  2. Wet their body with cool (not ice-cold) water—especially their belly, paws, and underarms.
  3. Use a fan or air circulation to help with cooling.
  4. Offer water in small amounts if they’re conscious.
  5. Call Shuler Veterinary Clinic or your nearest emergency vet hospital as soon as possible.

Do not use ice water or immerse your dog completely—it can cause shock. Controlled, gentle cooling is key.

Dog Heatstroke: How to Prevent It in the Lowcountry Climate

Prevention is always better than treatment. With our humid summers, here are a few dog heatstroke prevention tips to keep in mind:

  • Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening
  • Always provide access to fresh water and shade
  • Never leave your dog in a parked car—even with the windows down
  • Use cooling mats or vests during warm weather outings
  • Avoid strenuous activity in hot temperatures
  • Know your dog’s risk factors (flat-faced breeds, overweight pets, and seniors are at higher risk)

Ask us about custom heat safety plans for your dog’s breed, age, and lifestyle. To learn more about heat safety for your pets, watch this video!

Dog Heatstroke: Let’s Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer

At Shuler Veterinary Clinic, we’re committed to keeping your dog healthy year-round—including during our hot and humid Lowcountry summers. Whether you need help planning safe summer activities or recognizing the warning signs of heatstroke, our team is here to support you.

Call us today at (843) 884-4494 or schedule a wellness appointment online. Let’s work together to keep tails wagging safely all season long.

Shuler Veterinary Clinic is part of the locally and family-owned network of animal hospitals known as Animal Hospitals of the Lowcountry. Our network includes:

  • Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital: South Mount Pleasant SC, At Coleman Blvd and Old Village
  • Shuler Veterinary Clinic: Central Mount Pleasant SC, At Town Center
  • Safe Harbor Animal Hospital: North Mount Pleasant SC, At North MP and Hwy 41

Let’s work together to help every pet move through life with ease and comfort.