Hi,



I've been keeping my bearded dragon on washed/screened playsand and have only one complaint, it's VERY dusty. After a major cleaning, it only takes about two weeks for a fine layer of dust to accumulate on the cage furnishings. Also, when I take Tanek out of her cage she too is covered in fine particulates. In the past I've used calcium carbonate "sand" products and found them to be even dustier, actually building up in the nostrils of my dragon. I haven't noticed this since switching to playsand and Tanek is now turning 8 years old with no noticeable decrease in activity, weight or appetite; so, I consider her to be quite healthy and happy. This dust problem, therefore, seems to be simply a cosmetic issue; masking my dragon's natural color and leading to a shabby looking cage.



In order to combat the dust, I've considered two plans of action. In the first option, I clean out my cage, add new sand, and spray it down liberally with water. After drying, I expect the sand to clump slightly and become more hard-packed and less dusty. Alternatively, I've thought about making up a playsand/potting soil mix, which may also be less dusty. Both of these methods, I feel, would curb the dust problem I'm experiencing and result in a more natural substrate (i.e. slightly harder, more substantial under foot, and more conducive to burrowing). I'm concerned that the potting soil may increase the humidity too much, though.



So, what do you think/which method do you prefer? I know many of you do not believe in using any particulate substrate at all, but I've had no problems and actually prefer sandy substrates for the cleaning ease and more natural environment. If you have any alternate suggestions I would love to read them.



Thanks,

Ethan

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