I've noticed several threads lately on this topic. Having read a thread on another forum also made me think about this.
Soaking a reptile for hydration is a common myth. Reptiles, most anyways have thick skin that cannot absorb water into their system.
The benefits of soaking are to keep the skin healthy to aid in shedding. As well the reptile may drink more when in the "tub" so to speak.
This is why proper humidity levels are needed for optimum health. Moisture only enters the body(in most cases)through drinking and also breathing moist air.
We don't absorb water through our thin skin when bathing.

__________________
Mike
"Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you." - Mother Teresa

I believe amphibians are the only herp that absorb through their skin. This is also why it's necessary for their water to be chlorine free.

__________________
My name is Liz
Do what's best for the animal, not what's best for you.

That would be why I guess they say not to handle them. As they would absorb everything on your hands.

__________________
Mike
"Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you." - Mother Teresa

Exactly. And when you do handle them, you must wash and rinse your hands really well.

__________________
My name is Liz
Do what's best for the animal, not what's best for you.

My boa will drink a lot when I give her a bath, so I usually try to fit them in a few times a week, especially during sheds, unless she's feeling grumpy then I just mist her more than usual. :-p

The skin of the cloaca in many aquatic turtles also absorbs small quantities of water as well as oxygen. Weird, but true...

I think that the common attitude about rehydration by soaking has to do with the animal absorbing water through the vent. Personally I never put much stock in that theory. There can't be THAT much water absorbed there!

__________________
Merlin,
What's Life Without A Little Magic!