Before the GFC unfolded I saw 4 Corners on the ABC giving a rundown on the financial crisis which was unfolding in the USA.
I phoned my fund manager at the time and told him that I was uncomfortable with the situation and wished to convert my holdings to cash.
His reply was "what a stupid move to make, the market always fluctuates" A week or so later the financial crisis hit. That was the turning point for me.
I like your analogy with the dog shaking out the flees. It does take a bit of time to regroup, but boy it is so satisfying being in control.
Just need to sort out my accounting situation at the moment and then I will be more comfortable.