I don’t know exactly when this started, but over the last few years I’ve developed a fierce aversion to crowds. I used to go to outdoor concerts, street fairs, art openings, whatever… by myself or with friends, without hesitation. Now, I can’t tolerate Safeway, the movies, most bars, or even a crowded sidewalk. And MUNI… let’s not even go there! I’m basically avoiding people these days, yet I still crave social interaction. I love this city, and all it has to offer, but I’m just not playing well with others right now. I find myself turning down invitations right and left to parties, events, etc. I need some advice on how to deal with this, especially with tourist season now upon us. Any thoughts?

The Hermit of Haight Street

Dear Hermit,

OMG! I have the same problem! It’s almost like you were reading my mind. When there are parties at my house I often sleep in a box or hide under the table for hours, wanting for it to all be over. Someone usually drags me out and encourages me to face my fears by trying to make me look “cute” and builld up my confidence, but it rarely works and I often retreat to the litter box because it’s the only place where nobody bothers me (for good reason).

A few key things to take care of when you go out of the house:

• Get all of your outdoor shots so you don’t end up with rabies or worse. Actually, rabies is about as bad as it gets.
• If you need extra security, consider wearing a harness. I have a nice sturdy purple one that I like to wear in the yard. My buddy Coles has one too. Our harnesses keep us feeling secure, and we look great lounging in the sun.
• Always be prepared and bring things you’ll need to be comfortable: blankets, toys, sedatives, a raincoat- whatever you think will come in handy.
• Most importantly, learn about your likes and dislikes so you can find an environment where you’ll have a good time.
• It sounds like most of the places you mention don’t have any seating, maybe you should try going to events where you can plop down and make yourself at home. I’ve learned to be comfortable sitting in almost any position, which comes in handy.
• Always bring food with you. Sometimes I let some tuna soak into my neck fur and I can suck it out later if I need a little reassuring comfort in the form of a treat! Do you have a beard?

I hope you have luck in implementing some of my suggestions. I look forward to seeing you at Bay to Breakers, Dolores Park and the Folsom Street Fair!

Yours truly,

Javier

I don’t know Mogu personally, but he sure has a lot of youtube videos…

I love rolling on my back and having people rub me. I enjoy venison, but I’m on a new special diet now so I don’t eat it as much any more. I have a sensitive stomach, so I have to watch what I eat and take steroids every other day. Chewing on metal objects is yet another pastime, and once in a while I catch a moth if one happens to get in the house.

I hope you come back often for updates on my activities and my first response to a reader question. To get us all acquainted, here’s a short video from last weekend of me being groomed: