My desire to become a K-9 Handler started back in 2012 while stationed in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. While overseas, I had the pleasure of working alongside K-9 Handlers and their K-9 partners. 

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After becoming a Police Officer with the Monroe Township Police Department in 2014, I volunteered and enjoyed working as a decoy for our department's K-9 unit. In 2018, I was honored to be chosen as the newest K-9 handler for the M.T.P.D..

 

In December of 2018, I attended the Philadelphia K-9 Academy with my partner, K-9 Tito. Right away, I learned that my lead was the most important piece of equipment for Tito and I. Through the lead.. the bond, the trust, and the confidence is formed.

 

While at the academy, I searched for a comfortable, light-weight yet durable patrol lead that would give a good correction but could not find one. With a little encouragement from those around me, I decided to make my own. After sampling numerous types of materials, I finally found what I was looking for. I hand stitched my first lead and tested it vigorously throughout the duration of the academy.

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My handcrafted lead, which I still use to this day, held up to the test and got Philadelphia's stamp of approval. My instructors and fellow classmates all requested their own lead and through word of mouth, more and more requests came pouring in. This was the start of something amazing, Longstroke Leads.

 

That is when I knew I had to invest in a sewing machine (...giggle). I purchased a used, vintage Singer sewing machine and have been crafting custom leads, leashes, and now collars ever since.    

       

- Roy Pierson, Founder of Longstroke Leads

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