Took my dogs to a softball game recently to watch my bf and his company play. Complete pick-up game, not even an ump. The field has a walking track around it that I take the dogs to for walks sometimes.

Jake did pretty well while it was still light out. Especially with lots of new people. I suggested that no-one pet Jake because he wasn't especially friendly (he's not unfriendly, just not very confident around new people, and I didn't want to take any chances) and most people gave them a wide berth regardless. They eventually both settled down to watch the ball fly back and forth for several innings. When it got dark and the lights came on though, Jake got nervous- I got up and started to walk them around the track to keep him occupied. Made them sit and down randomly for interest. My bf's brother (whom both the dogs know very well and enjoy attention from) came up to pet jake, with the field lights behind him, and Jake shied pretty badly. I was really surprised! Do you think this was because of too much new stuff? he was on overload, and the lighting made it difficult for him to recognize my bf's brother?

I'm going to try and keep taking them, get them used to seeing lots of people, and being in a new place. But I want it to be a positive experience... Should I make sure and leave by dark next time? Or just take more stuff to keep them occupied and having a good time after dark so that it's a positive experience?