I have 4 Carpets ranging from 2014 - 2010. I find that statement about over handling preposterous.
Sounds to me like that person may have handled their Carpet(s) so often that they may have been in the blue at times. My Jungle girl can be hard to tell when she is in shed at times unless you are looking for it. Even then I've handled her the day before shed not knowing.
I think I could handle all my Carpets in shed and they wouldn't bite. I'm sure one day I'll do something stupid or neglectful and get bit, but not so far.
Lizzy