Using Parachute Cord to Retrofit Your Slip Lead for Better Dog Handling

Recently, while working with dogs at Apollo Rescue in Justin, TX, I noticed a common issue with the standard slip leads used by many rescues. These generic slip leads often feature a leather adjuster that wears out over time, making it difficult to keep the lead in the correct position-just below the dog’s jawbone, with enough space to slip a fingertip between the lead and the dog.
When the adjuster fails, the lead becomes loose and spins around. As a result, when a dog pulls and the handler applies tension, the dog instinctively pulls harder, increasing pressure on its airway. This can cause discomfort or even injury.
However, when a slip lead is positioned correctly-resting on the neck muscles-it allows for proper corrections that help the dog refocus on the handler. In this video, I demonstrate how to retrofit any slip lead using a 1/4-inch paracord, transforming it into a safer and more effective handling tool.