No, you misread... Dirt has to be kept damp. I use a watering can like people water potted plants with.
Misting on dirt is virtually useless, I dump 2 gallons of water on my Monitor's dirt every few days.
by spreading leaf litter over the top it helps the dirt retain moisture.
I have planted grass, serves the same purpose, the grass and it's root structure holds the soil together and keeps the humidity in it.
The statement about soaking is highly accurate, animals do not absorb via osmosis.
A decent vet will do a Normosol injection for about $100 (office visit included)