Happy Fourth of July

                     Happy Fourth of July


Lets celebrate the fact that the USA is 236 years old.   That’s amazing, in dogs years that would be 1,652 years old.  So with that we say CHEERS!
Below you will find an article that I have attached Dogs and Firework Phobia, after reading this material you will understand why the VonHolediggers are such a neurotic mess!  Our mom does not past one of these test.  If there is a thunderstorm or Fireworks we all sit on the sofa  and she comforts us.  I am even nice to Freddie Mercury because I understand this fear.
I never used to be scared of fireworks but I believe it’s because the redneck neighbor  shoots his gun off the deck, it’s not like we are far away, we live in a subdivision.   Last Christmas Eve he was shooting away at four in the afternoon.  I hate that noise.  I know I am suppose to be a bird dog, but all I can say is really? Am I suppose to be subjected to this nonsense.
Let me explain, the more he drinks, the louder the gun and the further his shorts go down.  When all of a sudden we realize we are being mooned.
My parents always taught us to say no to crack!
With that being said we wish you the happiest and safest holiday.  We are proud to be American Dogs!
-Vinnie Laine

Dogs and Fireworks Phobia
Dealing with a Fear of Fireworks in Dogs
From Amy Bender

A fear of fireworks is a fairly common phobia for dogs. They often find the loud, unpredictable noise and bright displays of light truly frightening. Even a seemingly confident dog can tremble and drool at the unfamiliar sounds. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to help your dog get through the festivities.
Desensitize Your Dog to the Sound of Fireworks
If you have some time before the 4th of July or an anticipated fireworks display in your neighborhood, you can begin getting your dog used to the sounds. This is referred to as desensitization, and it can be done in a few simple steps:
Find a video or recording of fireworks.
Play the video or recording at the lowest possible volume a few times during the day.
Pair the sound of the fireworks with things your dog likes, such as treats, meals, cuddle time, or a game of tug-of-war.
Slowly begin to raise the volume of the recording or video over the course of several days, and continue to pair the sound of fireworks with good things for your dog.
If at any point your dog begins to show signs of fear, turn the volume down to a point where he feels more comfortable.
Repeat this several times each day until your dog can hear the sounds of the fireworks at a fairly high volume without becoming fearful.
Help Ease Your Dog's Fears
If you don't have time to prepare for the fireworks, or if desensitization hasn't ended your dog's fear of fireworks completely, there are things you can do to help ease his fears. These things may help with dogs who have a mild to moderate fear of fireworks.
Don't change your behavior. Many people feel compelled to baby their dogs when the dog is showing signs of fear. We pet them more than usual, cuddle them, and talk to them in soft voices. Rather than easing a dog's fears, however, this often reinforces the dog's fearful behaviors.
Try not to react to the fireworks yourself. If you jump or tense up when you hear fireworks because you are anticipating your dog's fear, you may make his fear worse. Your body language can tell a dog that there is a reason to be afraid.
Drown out the sound of the fireworks. Try to turn up the radio or television and keep your windows closed during the fireworks. If the weather permits, a fan or air conditioner (if your dog isn't afraid of those sounds) can help, too.
Don't push your dog past his comfort zone. Allow him to hide if he feels more comfortable in his crate or under a bed. Don't pull him out or try to force him closer to the fireworks in an attempt to get him used to the sounds. This may result in an increase in fear, and a frightened dog may become aggressive if pushed past his comfort level.