Hi Kitty Knight!
What you've described is a lot more common than you think it is. Fear not, we're not scary. Furries are quite friendly, and it's all mostly in good fun. If you want to spar or anything like that just let me know and I'll be happy to oblige. By the way I'm Jovi, one of TFF's few equine members, avid artist and role player. Welcome to the forum and the fandom.