I'm getting my little boy ready for his first show this weekend (Oct 9 / 10) in Memphis, TN.
I have been taking him out in public for several weeks on a LEASH - but carrying him, most of the time.
He is welcome in the local library and the pet supply store, even the video rental store has welcomed him.
I carry anti-bacterial jel and paper towels with me, and if someone asks to pet him, I ask them to clean their hands first - and so far, no one has seemed offended, and been willing to disinfect their hands before handling him. (This also prepares them for the "smell" of the antibacterial agents most judges use between each cat, in the judging rings.)
The more people, sounds and differences in his normal environment, the better, I HOPE !!
I've been told by many breeders that being unafraid of strange places and people they don't know is half the battle.
Also, I've been practicing bringing him out of the cage and "stretching" him, the way the judges will do.
The judges usually bring them out of the ring cages, (bottom) first.
I'm sure I'll LEARN a lot this weekend. I'll fill you in, on Monday
Good luck!