Onion mesh bags become a surprising pet trend in Korea

Photos of dogs wearing mesh onion bags over their heads have drawn attention online, showing pet owners’ unconventional attempt to protect their animals from ticks during walks.

On Tuesday, an owner posted a photo on Threads of their dog on a walk with a green mesh bag covering its head.

“Don’t throw away your onion nets,” the owner wrote, explaining that they had placed the packaging covering over the dog’s head because it frequently pokes its face into the grass.

The owner said they came up with the idea after finding a tick in the dog’s ear during a bath the day before.

Another owner shared a similar photo of their dog wearing a mesh cover normally used to keep insects away from food stored outdoors.

"This is not animal abuse," the owner wrote. “The net is there to protect my dog.”

Similar mesh head coverings designed to protect dogs from ticks and other insects are available on sites such as Coupang and Naver Shopping Live. Prices range from 6,500 won to 60,000 won ($5-$42).

Social media users found the unusual outfits amusing, while many also agreed that ticks are a serious concern during summer.

Ticks often lurk in grass and bushes before attaching themselves to passing animals. They can transmit diseases while feeding on a dog’s blood that could later cause fever, loss of appetite and vomiting. Some tick-borne illnesses can also affect humans.

Owners are advised not to forcibly remove an attached tick, as parts of it may remain embedded in the skin, potentially causing inflammation or a secondary infection.

After a walk, owners should carefully inspect their dogs, paying particular attention to the ears, face and the spaces between the toes.