Alva Review-Courier -

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (AP) — Texas A&M University experts say spring-like temperatures in areas of Texas mean snakes are coming out of winter hibernation, increasing the likelihood of people and pets getting bit.

A veterinarian with the school's Small Animal Clinical Services, Christine Rutter, says she's already seen cases this year of snakebites on dogs.

Dr. Jill Heatley, an associate professor of veterinary medicine, says snakebite treatment for people can be painful and cost up to $50,000 for venomous cases.

Texas is home to four venomous snakes: the coral snake, copperhead, rattlesnake a...