As the sun starts to make more frequent appearances, people in Billings want to get out and enjoy the weather.
While Montana's stay-at-home order is still in place and some businesses in the Billings area remain closed, people are still venturing out to go on hikes and walks around their neighborhood.
Dr. Brad Fuller of Fuller Family Medicine said Friday that getting out of the house for a walk or a hike is a great way to get rid of cabin fever, and bringing your pets along can help mentally.
“We are all anxious to get outdoors, no doubt about it…We still have to be smart about it and still continue to social distance,” says Fuller.
After a tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York was diagnosed with COVID-19, many have been concerned for the safety of their pets.
“Right now, we are still saying use common sense... Chances are, right now, we’re not transmitting it to them nor are they transmitting it to us. I still think we can keep our furry companion (safe) and I think we should, for mental health,” Fuller says.
Fuller says that masks are a good idea to keep handy when you are out if people are walking or hiking nearby but, if you can maintain at least six feet distance from others, then you should be fine without a mask.
While there is still uncertainty as to when this pandemic will come to an end, Fuller says that he is proud of how serious the community is taking CDC guidelines and keeping themselves and others safe. Also on Friday, Montana Gov. Steve Bullock announced he's planning a phased reopening of the state, as long as COVID-19 cases keep dropping in Montana.
“I think the light is at the end of the tunnel…if we keep a positive attitude but still smart about it, I think we can get through this,” Fuller says.
