Need ideas - how to make a handle for a tug toy

I have a piece of deer hide that I'm going to turn into tug toys for the dogs. Problem is, I don't have a sewing machine and really don't know how to sew. Are there any alternatives for making a handle for the toy or am I going to have to break down and learn a new skill?



I'm looking to make something like this:

Need ideas - how to make a handle for a tug toy