There are moments when a dog needs to be secured in under two seconds: a loose dog in a car park, a kennel move, a frightened stray you have just managed to corner. A slip lead has no clip to line up with a ring on a collar. You drop the loop over the head and it is on. That is why every rescue and every kennel keeps a stack of them by the door.

This one is made from 15mm polypropylene and polyester webbing, which is light, does not soak up water the way a cotton rope does, and rinses off after a muddy morning without staying damp for two days afterwards. At around 115cm, or 45 inches, it still gives a normal walking length once the loop has been formed, rather than the stub some slip leads leave you holding.

• 15mm polypropylene and polyester webbing
• Approximately 115cm, or 45 inches, in length
• No clips or clasps, so it loops straight over the head
• Seven colours: black, blue, green, orange, pink, red and yellow
• Lightweight and quick to dry
• Useful as a spare for the car or the kennel

On how a slip lead works. It tightens when the dog pulls and it does not loosen itself again; the handler has to release the tension. That makes it a control lead for short, attended use rather than an everyday walking lead for a hard puller, and it should never be left on an unattended dog. No stopper is listed on this one, so set the loop carefully and keep a hand on it.

Who it's for: Kennels, rescues, groomers, and anyone who wants a spare lead in the boot for the dog that is not theirs.