Gilbert's ears went red, and he hastily ran his hands through his hair, fluffing it over the horns. "I, um, it's...there's too much...potential for...er...a dangerous magical reaction." It wasn't untrue. It was also a terribly good reason not to become a piece of performing scenery.
He realized that Shoggoth was straining at the leash. "I better get going. My dog. You know. Um, nice house." Unfortunately for Gilbert, the dog was in fact straining towards Tracey, wagging her tail madly and begging for pets.