how do i keep the substrate moist?

Question
i recently posted a question about my RT's eyes being swollen shut and followed your advice...i turned an old bookcase down and filled it with half bed-a-beast and half playsand.  anyway, his eyes are doing MUCH better, but since the bookcase is so open i have no idea how to keep the substrate moist.  i use a squirt bottle every day like twice a day, but it sure hurts my wrists and arms!  is there an easier way?

Answer
Hi Rachelle,

The heat lamps are so drying that just misting doesn't do more than form a damp crust on top--if you stick your finger into the substrate, you'll find it's completely dry underneath.  You need to add water to the substrate every few days.  I use a watering can and sprinkle the entire enclosure thoroughly (checking to make sure the substrate really does get damp all the way through).  If the bookcase isn't waterproofed or sealed, you want to make sure it's on top of something that won't be damaged if any moisture seeps through.

It sounds like your tortoise is doing much better and I bet he's happy having more room to move around in.  You're doing a good job!