Is sand safe?

[Derlizardmahn]

I've had my beardie for about a year, and had sand the whole time. A lot of places and people say sand isn't safe, and some say that it's fine. Is it bad for juvies and ok for the adult beardies? Mine never seems to have much trouble with it.

 

[Hdrydr31]

Sand is usually discouraged especially for babies. The key to it is having a very hydrated dragon, you don't feed in the tank with the sand..It can cause impactions. Dragon's taste their environment that's how they learn where they are etc ... Adults are less likely to get impacted as they usually are eating well and staying hydrated. It's better safe than sorry to avoid using sand.

 

[Canicke]

Yeah - uh - no sand, please

 

[PatsyB]

The other issue with sand is that particles can easily get under an eye lid or they can inhale it causing respiratory problems. It also harbors bacteria. You may pick up the poop right away but there is still moisture that is going seep into the sand that you can't pick up. So where it may be fine if you have a well hydrated dragon (and really, that won't be all the time), it's not worth the other risks.

 

[Hdrydr31]

Totally agree with PatsyB I forgot to mention the whole eye irritation and RI concerns... Oh yea the smell from them peeing and bacteria yea you can't get it all up and the tank ends up smelling pretty foul...(I'm glad Izzy will hold out for her baths to go! that goes right down the drain)

 

[PatsyB]

I used to find dried fruits and veggies in the bottom of Dexter sand even though I thought I cleaned it all out.