how the &^%$^& do I avoid this situation? or can't i?

[45suited]

I have no problem folding AK from the SB pre-flop in this situation.

I think that calling is an option, as is pushing pre-flop actually. Not mini-reraising, knowing that he will call (larger pot) and then you have to play the hand OOP.

Actually, I'm folding pre-flop. Problem solved. There's really no need to get involved here. Call me weak-tight, I don't care.