Funny as it may seem, that is actually standard equipment under ISO:8110 for animal trainers world wide. And I quote from the text of the standard:

Safety Equipment (503, section C):

Animals of size over 20kg shall require a neck restraint device with a rigid staff. Leashes and chains are unacceptable for their ineffectiveness to protect the animal’s handler. A specialized noose-rod or other neck restraint device with handle no less than 80cm shall be on site at all times, or if one is not available, a basketball hoop is an acceptable substitute.