As far as substrate and under the tank, .. The bottom OUTSIDE of the tank, we covered in foil. We read that it helps to bring a bit of the heat from the UTH over to the cooler side. Inside the tank, we have foil, newspaper and then the repti-felt stuff.
Again, we read that it help disperse the heat, and avoids having a definate "hot spot" where the UTH Is.

We chose the felt because it was easier for my 14 y/o to clean. (Although, as I've stated before, our little BP is his in name only the more we are involved. The hubby and I have aquired a great affection for her ...) He's colorblind, and digging through the mulch was a little harder than he thought it would Now, I have been thinking about switching back to that, Cyprus, or Aspen, just because of the humidity factor.. Do shavings and/or mulch hold it better than the felt would??

What is an elephant humidifier?? We've been playing around with the idea of buying one for the room that she's in... and i've also seen a post or two about making your own.. Still haven't really decided what the best plan of action is. We do mist in there every once in a while. Admitadly, i have a bit more this week, as she was going through a shed. (The 2nd since we've had her..) It went well, aside from her head - we're still working on that.. and keeping an eye on her eyes...

Our girl is still being treated with antibiotics as well. The vet said it was an inner ear infection because of her goofy behavior.. but I'm not so sure. She does seem to be getting better and stronger.. *sigh* but I digress. I tend to wander a bit when I write... sorry!

We do have a digi thermometer w/probe for both sides of the tank.. so we are keeping a constant eye on her temps - but they just fluctuate so much now.. I think the next thing we need to get is a dimmer/thermostat or something to control the heat. Does anyone have a preference between the strict on/off ones and other kinds??

Thank you so much for your help!!