I have one of your wire muzzles for my dog, can I fasten her leash directly to the muzzle?

I have one of your wire muzzles for our Doberman, Nikki & I was wondering if you had any opinion about using it as a Gentle Leader by simply fastening her leash to a wire on the muzzle while she is wearing it.

Our local police want us to muzzle Nikki when we walk her in our neighborhood, because she has scared a few joggers by lunging at them when they've startled her (usually from behind). We've been using a Gentle Leader, which gives us good control over her, but the police argue that it's no substitute for a real muzzle.

I also wonder about using the wire muzzle during the coldest weather here in south central Wisconsin. Is there any concern that her tongue could become stuck to it?

Thanks very much for your opinion!

Rob