Sigma 150-500 questions

Couple of questions for those of you using the Sigma-150-500:

Do you use a protective UV filter, and/or do you know of any issues with one? (other than those discussed in the faq section on this - I've seen a vague reference to filters causing focusing problems)

Do you ever carry it by the camera strap? I have a 350D, am wondering if the camera is strong enough for this, or should it be carried by the lens itself?

I bought and use a UV filter on my 150-500 sigma despite what has been mentioned here in the forum. Admittedly the supplied lens hood does a fine job of protecting the front element from damage but I will always mount a good high quality haze/UV filter on my lens if at all possible. I have never read about a haze filter causing focus issues, but that is not to say an extremely dusty or dirty filter won't cause the lens to try to focus on the filth!!
I carry it by the camera strap but also have the lens strap around my neck too. IMO that is a lot of weight to put on the mount area and I don't have any desire to load test it. This specific lens is large and heavy enough I feel I am mounting the camera onto the lens instead of vice-versa.

Iuse a filter only if I use it in an eviroment that could harm the front element (beach, Rain, Fog.....)
I never carry by the camera strap, always hand holding. or on a gimble.

I've used my 150-500 on my XTi for a year and a half with no issues. I bought the lens used (LNIB) and it came with a high quality Heliopan UV filter. It never effected the image quality so I just left it on since it didn't hurt and it added another level of protection.

I've never had any focusing issues with it, and the Rebel bodies can support it's weight just fine. I've carried my camera every which way possible with that lens and never had a problem.

Also just fine on the 7D too.