Not the same with sand. It's always there, doesn't spoil, and animals can visit anytime. But you can't just throw sand out there and forget it. It does require some participation on your part. Every once in awhile you must rake out any droppings and trash them.
Wild animals use sand to roll in to get rid of parasites.
In the summertime, you can sprinkle a bit of flea powder on the sand patch - that helps you and them. With birds, set up a birdbath with sand in it. Add to it when the birds scatter it about. Hummingbird feeders are okay - once they find it, you'll be surprised how many times they visit. Use a colored feeder to attract them, but DON'T use a coloring agent in the feeding solution.