Since Fenway is only 20lbs, I just pick him up myself. But you know, now that you think of it, it seems like THEY would pick your dog up, not you. But perhaps they're afraid some dog (not necessarily yours) may turn around and bite them in the face or something. I just don't know. I know my sisters dogs have to be muzzled because they HATE the vets. So perhaps it's more of a percaution?

Just a guess.