Loose Substrate?

[emilys_exotics]

Hi (:
I have a 3 year old bearded dragon who has always had tile as a substrate. I read a sand/dirt mix is safe for them, but wanted opinions. I think mine would enjoy digging in it and it would look much nicer. Of course, if it's not safe, I won't switch to it so I can keep my pet healthy. But just wanted opinions on it. Or if there are any other safe loose substrates.
Thanks

[jclaiborne]

I keep all my reptiles on a bioactive substrate, they base of that substrate is a sand/dirt mix. Never had any issues.

[shelpen]

I have my 6.5 yo dragon on gravel for the last 1.5 years...
I think loose substrate is dangerous for the babies since they taste everything with the tongues. The older ones are not so inquisitive any more.

[JessPets]

I honestly say no. Many people say its fine and have no problems, but there is still a risk. Plus, bacteria can grow MUCH better in loose substrate than it can on something like tile.

[LittleTreeGuy]

I have a 1yr old beardie as well and I kept thinking about putting sand in her enclosure, (she's currently on the same type of indented kraft paper my bp is on) but then I think about taking it all out to clean, and I'm back to liking the paper again.

[jclaiborne]

I honestly say no. Many people say its fine and have no problems, but there is still a risk. Plus, bacteria can grow MUCH better in loose substrate than it can on something like tile.

Tile can hold bacteria on the surface, between the cracks and underneath, the key to any substrate is proper cleaning. Bio-active on the other hand requires very little cleaning and controls the bacteria.