Judge Funds Palmer Pet Chip Reader

She's the district justice for Palmer and Forks townships.

But Judge Jacqueline Taschner was recognized recently for doing something else: Showing her love for pets.

The Palmer Township Board of Supervisors presented Taschner with a plaque for purchasing a pet chip reader, a device that helps reunite owners with their lost pets.

"This is a surprise for the judge," Supervisors Chairman Dave Colver said. "This is a proclamation for Judge Taschner, a dedicated animal lover and a community-minded individual. She donated money for the chip reader. The supervisors commend and recognize her for her generosity."

The $400 pet chip reader scans a microchip implant  – the size of a piece of rice – that is injected under the skin of a dog or cat and holds information regarding the pet's owner and home.

Police Chief Larry Palmer said pet chip readers are useful in the return of lost pets. He said Easton purchased one while he was police chief because the city was spending more than $40,000 on animal control costs.

It costs about $60 to place the chip in a pet.

Taschner explained Thursday why she got on board.

"I read the article in the Palmer Patch and contacted the chief," she said. "With loving animals, I couldn't think of a better thing. If it had been $5 or $5,000, I would have done it."